Order Day

Today I am ordering the materials needed for the project.

• Murrelet 4PD Kit:  Previously I built the Pinguino 4 Panel Deck and I like the look of the 4PD with the curved cockpit coaming.  I chose the 17"x33" cockpit for a bit more touring space and Hull Version 2.  Hull 2 was designed for more maneuverability than a stiff tracking line.  This works for me on the lakes of Minnesota.  Most everything you need will come in the kit.  I did purchase a Random Orbital Sander and 1"foam interface attachment, a good 3M respirator (not the cloth versions), extra gloves from the Pharmacy, and a Dentist friend gave me more syringes.
• Bulkhead and Hatch Kit:  I plan to tour with the boat and also gives a sealed space for any time the boat is under water.  I have researched options of using strong magnets to seal the hatch instead of the straps provided in the kit.  As the build progresses I will decide straps or magnets.
• Footbrace Studs:  I attached the footbraces with the hardware provided by the kit on the Pinguino.  This requires drilling through the hull.  I have not noticed any leaking or been unhappy, but I am going for a cleaner look this time.
• Deck Rigging:  Provides convenient deck storage for sandals, jackets, etc.
• Perimeter Deck Lines:  I purchased the reflective line to give a better on water presence at dusk and dawn.
• Z-spar Flagship Varnish:  I used the WR-LPU on the Pinguino and I wasn't happy with the brush strokes left behind.  Other builders also recommend the Z-spar.
• 10 foam rollers:  Buy them from Pygmy!  I could not find them anyplace else.  Buy a 3" roller from the hardware store and make each 7" roller into two 3" rollers.  7" was two wide to lay down the epoxy and I found that I needed to change out the roller to prevent the foam bubbles that arrive with application.
• Neoprene travel cover:  The price is reasonable with Pygmy.  I bought a Sealine through REI that is a durable PVC cloth, so I am trying the neoprene to compare.

Since this is my second build I have all of my building materials ready to go.  I have added a link to my previous blog on the Pinguino for pictures.  There are many great sights that offer table and tool advice.

Starting Out

Building the Murrelet by Pygmy Boats

First launch hours after the ice out

So begins the second round of building a Pygmy kayak.  In the winter and spring of 2013 I built the Pinguino 4PD (right) and this fall I will start the Murrelet.  Both boats are similar in design.

The Pinguino is sturdy, responsive, and light.  I have taken on the heavy winds through the lakes of Minnesota and the Missouri River.  Rarely do I feel as if I may tip.  The only real time I have swamped the boat is when I have tried to complete the Greenland roll (with no success).

Travels well on the car!

Without a keel the boat is easy to maneuver with just a slight tilt of the hips.  The boat is great!  We live in central Minnesota and paddling with the rising Sun and wailing Loons cannot be matched.  It is unique.  I expect the Murrelet will be similar and allow more storage for journeys into the larger lakes of the BWCA and Lake Superior.

The following posts will act as my journal and hopefully a place for others to learn from my mistakes and successes.

Overall, I plan to move at a quick pace.  I was able to identify when I can perform multiple tasks by building the Pinguino and I hope to refine that with the Murrelet.

Wish me luck!