Why I chose the Night Heron

Posted on by David

I started the kit selection process by digging through Chesapeake Light Craft’s website. I knew I wanted something longer than a recreation-length boat (13-14′). And something pretty fast. After narrowing down the choices, I emailed CLC and got a quick response from John Harris, the owner. He recommended the 18′ Night Heron. He also suggested I chose the hi-deck version because of my size 12 feet. I guess size does matter.

The hi-deck version was only available in the hybrid design. And the hybrid boat uses stitch and glue plywood for the hull and then cedar planks for the deck. I had watched all the online videos CLC had posted most of which were the building of a complete stitch and glue kit. While those make nice boats, I wanted to use the cedar planks to make the boat look ‘cooler’. So the hi-deck hybrid was my choice.

My cleared out garage space. 18′ would be to long to build in my basement. Well, not too long to build, just too long to get out through the window.
The kit came in two flat packages and two boxes
Sorting out the perfect cedar planks.
The cedar was clear and straight. The plywood parts were cleanly cut and straight as well.

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