Designed for Larger Paddlers
Like the GoldenEye-Standard, the GE-HI sports a 15'8" length and 24" beam. These hulls are identical under water. John designed the GE-HI 1.5" deeper than the Standard, the entire length of the boat. The depth at the front of the cockpit is a roomy 13.5". This creates more volume for gear, and most importantly--MORE FOOT ROOM! If you wear a men's size 11 shoe, or larger, this is the GoldenEye for you. If you have long legs or large thighs, her extra volume makes hours of paddling comfortable. In general, paddlers over 6'2" usually prefer the GE-HI.

Higher Volume
There's plenty of room inside for a couple weeks of camping gear. She's still only 40 lbs., so day trips are light. With 13.2 cubic feet of volume, pack in
150 pounds of gear, plus yourself, and go. Pack an espresso machine, a stovetop oven--plenty of room to go deluxe! Alternatively, frugal "backpacker" style packing can extend your time out.

Performance
This kayak tracks more strongly, and has a higher hull speed than many 17' and 18' kayaks. For example, her plum stern and steep bow give her a 10" longer waterline than a 17' Necky Tesla! Numerous large, intermediate paddlers have sold their beginning fiberglass or plastic hull and "graduated" to a mahogany GoldenEye-HI. They save 25-30% on weight. A fast, rugged, beautiful wooden kayak is their reward for 50 to 70 hours of building time. For other choices for large paddlers, see the Queen Charlotte-XL and the Osprey Triple. If you are tall, but wear shoes under men's size 12, look at the Coho and Arctic Tern.

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.