Is anyone familiar with a US made boat similar to the Rossiter (www.rossiterboats.com) Pocket Skiff? I am very much enamored of the design, but the rigors and expense of shipping from Canada to the US have exausted my (very limited) patience. Alternatively, does anyone know of an inexpensive way to get a boat from Ontario to Annapolis?

-- Chuck Thompson (cthompson@troweprice.com), March 16, 2000

Answers

If it's the aesthetics of the Pocket Skiff that appeal to you, I don't think you'll find anything comparable; I agree, it's attractive. If it's funtionality only, you might find an acceptable lower-cost compromise with a couple of Old Town plastic boat models, retro-fitted with oars, the 133K or Sportboat 13 models. But they're not nearly as attractive. With the favorable currency exchange rate, it might be worthwhile to struggle through the problems of importing the skiff. I'll bet the builder would do his best to help with shipping, customs, etc.

-- kim apel (kapel@ucsd.edu), March 16, 2000.

Dear Chuck,

I'm not familiar with the Rossiter Pocket Skiff so I may not appreciate its special appeal, but I do know there are a number of companies in the U.S. producing a wide range of craft some of which may suit your needs. Some are in your area. Have you seen the Open- Water Rowing Buyer's Guide?

Yours'

Andre de Bardelaben

-- Andre de Bardelaben (www.middlepath@aol. com), March 16, 2000.