Sasquatch versus Southwind

[slider]

I want to build more boats (don't we all) - definitely think something similar to the simple SOT I posted in the wish list section, will be on my short-term list.

I also find myself back in need of a small tandem boat. I would really like input from the board as to the comparison of a Southwind 15-30 and Sasquatch 15-30 that have the same basic dimensions. I know alot will depend on type of water paddled, open vs decked, other personal preferences, etc but looking for feedback on these boats.

The final answer may be - "BUILD BOTH", but if you could only have one of these, or wanted to build one first before the other - which one would it be and why?

[jem]

If you just compare the lower hulls:

Sasquatch has more panels and a more rounded shape. It'll handle rougher water a little better (if you don't factor in the deck). It'll be just a tad faster in those conditions. On flat water, you may not notice a difference.

South wind has panels but is asymmetrical so it'll take a little longer to draw out the panels. On the Sasquatch, you can draw one of the panels and then just make 3 more copies of it since it's a symmetrical hull.

I had a decked canoe design using the Sasquatch hull shape and panel count, but managed to lose/delete it.

[Jimmy W]

I built the South Wind 15-30 and really like it. I like the looks of a decked canoe and the lower wind signature. Plus I liked the idea of having something a bit out of the ordinary. According to my GPS, I paddled 4.4 miles the other day in about an hour and 15 minutes. That was mostly steady paddling with a double blade paddle, but not trying to push for speed. That was also on a lake with no current or wind. I think that is pretty good performance for using a 57 year old engine that isn't in great shape any more.
I would like to try the Sasquatch and still might make either the 14 or 15 foot version.
Matt, I have been wondering about making a symmetrical version of the South Wind 15 with the aft hull the same as the front half. That would make drawing it out easier and seems like it would be a good shape. Probably lose some stability, but might gain some speed. What are your thoughts on that.

[jem]

It's certainly possible. If we were going to go that route, I'd be tempted just to add one more panel per side. I guess that would be a decked Sasquatch then.

[slider]

Hmmm, so should we kick this over to the wish list and ask for a decked Sasquatch?

[jem]

wouldn't hurt.

[hairymick]

I can't speak for the shorter versions, but I have built the Southwind 17'9" and the Sasquatch 16.5. In calm weather, they are about as fast as each other.
ouuthwind is faster and more seaworthy in wind or chop but has a reduced load capacity (still huge) and Sasquatch is more comfortable in that one can sit higher - safely.

I think a decked version of any Sasquatch could be a winner

[Oldsparkey]

On the Brazos River I paddled the Sasquatch 14 x 30 in winds up to 55 mph and waves the height of the canoe , never got a drop of water in it and made it home safe and sound. It was one really wild ride and something I would not suggest anyone doing. Well anyone with good seance.
At times not a heck of a lot of fun with a short dose of panic ( as in what in the heck am I doing here) thrown in but the canoe delivered the goods.

Chuck.

[jem]

Sasquatch is more comfortable in that one can sit higher - safely.

Worth mentioning Mick has the 16.5 x33" version of the Sasquatch. Wider beam than his Southwind.

[Jimmy W]

Worth mentioning Mick has the 16.5 x33" version of the Sasquatch. Wider beam than his Southwind.

His South Wind also has a narrower beam than the 15-30.
I use a seat about 8 inches high in my South Wind 15-30 and feel very safe. I have put a flotation cushion on that which gets the seat up near the gunnels. That starts to get scary when a boat wake catches you from the side.