Choosing a Boat Consider your preference for building a kit or purchasing a fiberglass shell. Would you like to row a single or a double? What do you plan on using your new boat for? Shells featured on this site have ample capacity, are capable even in less than perfect conditions, and are a delight to row. Contemporary or traditional, all our boats have efficient hulls, designed specifically for the unique requirements of sliding-seat rowing, and that incorporate the highest quality rigging.

The wider boats, Sea Ranger and Merry Wherry, have such stability that you may release the oars at any time—perfect for relaxed gunk holing. Narrower shells, like the Verry Merry or the Merry Shell, are faster, require a bit more attention but, are far more stable than skinny racing shells, the better choice for fitness oriented rowing.

You will be using your new shell much more frequently than other water-craft. Quality rigging, oars and a lightweight, yet durable hull are important both for getting to the water and for enjoying that perfect stroke.

Fitness Rowing For those concerned with their daily fitness the Merry Shell provides a narrow hull, ideal for aerobic conditioning and is lightweight. The Verry Merry has a bit less capacity and best for more protected water.

Recreational Rowing Both Merry Wherrys and Sea Rangers have wide waterline widths allowing one to let go of the oars, change clothing, have a drink or snap a picture. They are great for sharing with a passenger or rowing double. The Merry Wherry-15' and Sea Ranger-16' are the more personal sized boat and easier to handle for one. The Merry Wherry Two-19' and Sea Ranger II-19' are for the two man crew.

Adventure Rowing The Merry Sea and the Merry Sea Twos have underdeck storage for extended trips for one and weekend trips for two (like a kayak), just pack light! The Merry Wherry Two-19' and Sea Ranger II-19' are awesome choices with excellent sea keeping and lots of capacity. Rig with D-ring tie-downs and waterproof gear bags from www.nrsweb.com.

Big Guy Rowing The rowing industry has just not provided many choices for todays "big guy." Please don't try to talk yourself into a open water shell like the Verry Merry, or the Merry Shell. They are not designed for "big guys." Your higher center of gravity (a rower sits 6" higher then a kayak) will make them very tippy and your weight will be too far forward, resulting in poor handling. Instead, look carefully at the capacity and decide whether you want a adventure rower or fitness rower. Look at the Merry Wherrrys, Merry Seas, and Sea Rangers for choices for the "Big guy."