Shearwater 17 as tripping boat? Cargo volume question

   The other option is the Merganser that Eric designed. It is very similar to the Shearwater. It has several configurations. One may suit yours needs. Eric is very approachable if you have questions.

http://shearwater-boats.com/product/merganser/

Dan

Adding a strip to increase volume for increased loads would permit a raise in center of gravity when loaded to the maximum. Be prepared for a little more instability under those conditions, unless the increased weight results in greater displacement, i.e. does the as-designed hull's waterline 'footprint' increase when fully loaded? What would be called reserve stability?

   Thanks so much, everyone. I will see if CLC themselves can answer my question. It sounds like adding a strip would be ideal, but I'm not sure how it would work with the deck forms.

I may also look into bigger hatches, and check out the Merganser design too.

   It looks like the Merganser is just available as plans, but I'm hoping to get a full kit.

I wrote CLC about adding a strip to the deck. Will see what they say.