Extra Large
The Queen Charlotte-XL fits people weighing 220-280 pounds. With a generous 25 1/2" beam and 17'6" length, she is stable, yet still light at 45 lbs. Depth at front of cockpit is 13". Her extra depth and width give plenty of space for large feet (size 11+) and big legs. Men who have been uncomfortable in every fiberglass and plastic solo kayak they have rented come to our shop, test paddle the XL, and rejoice that they have finally found a hull designed to fit their frame.

Extra Stable
Some of our customers choose the QC-XL for its great primary and secondary stability. For example, fly fishing enthusiasts desire more stability in a kayak to counteract the rocking motion of casting. They may prefer this beamier boat. Sometimes birders and photographers want to maximize stability, as well. Whether upright or leaned, the XL's hull provides excellent support for these on-the-water activities.


Performance
The Queen Charlotte-XL carves crisp turns when leaned and tracks nicely. Her upswept bow and stern--classic features of West Greenland style kayaks--make her ride high and dry, even in heavy seas. No ribs or stringers obstruct her interior. Easily slide 200 pounds of gear inside for a 4 week expedition--or pack light for the weekend. Either way, the XL is one of the lightest large solo kayaks on the market.

Options and Accessories
All the Queen Charlottes: Standard, 19' and XL can be fitted with rudders. Some folks like rudders, some don't. In any event, attach a rudder after the kayak is completed. We recommend building your boat, paddling, then deciding if you want a rudder. We sell a flip-on-top style that parks on the rear deck. The assembly includes all lines, fittings, and installation instructions (see Accessories).
We recommend two flotation options: hatches/bulkheads, floatation bags or a sea sock. Fit a sea sock over the cockpit, sit inside, attach a sprayskirt, and you're ready to paddle. Or, buy our pre-cut bulkheads and a set of top-of-the-line Valley Canoe Product hatches. Hatch rims epoxy under the decks. Heavy duty black plastic covers snap on, just like Tupperware! Truly watertight.

We usually ship "Medium" hardener with our kits.  You may order "Slow" (for hot climates) or "Fast" (for cold climates) upon request.  Read the System Three Epoxy Book to help select a hardener. If you would like a copy of the Epoxy Book click here to download.

We also stock Silver Tip epoxy.  SilverTip Laminating Resin is a medium-low viscosity epoxy system that has been optimized for coating and reinforcing fabric saturation in wood-composite boatbuilding.  It has superior wet-out characteristics with little tendency to foam or trap air.  Both the resin and hardener are nearly colorless and are used in an easy 2:1 ratio.  The working time is longer than most boat building epoxies without sacrificing cure time.  We offer this an an option in our boat kits. NOTE:  This item can only ship UPS ground. Please plan accordingly.