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Here you will find all the materials and resources you need to build various styles of skin on frame boat.
We have an instructional video which leads you step by step through the boat building process, breaking it down into manageable chunks so that even a beginner can follow it and successfully build a beautiful, seaworthy boat to be proud of, while the more seasoned woodworker will find plenty of tips and techniques to simplify and enrich the boat-building experience.

We provide plans, materials, classes and instructions. We even offer kits which contain everything you need to build the skin-on-frame boat of your choice (except the wood which we recommend you buy locally to save shipping costs) and an easy to follow, step by step DVD with visual instructions.  You can also buy just the individual items you require from us – such as the ballistic nylon skin.
Contact us if you prefer that we provide the wood for you.

Canoe Kit – finished boat size 10.5 foot – for one person $297.00

Canoe Kit – finished boat size 10.5 foot – for one person

Canoe Kit – finished boat size 10.5 foot – for one person

Everything you need except the wood - we recommend sourcing your own wood locally in order to save shipping costs and kit cost - what to buy is explained in the DVD.

Select your required boat type below.

The kit includes all the following materials:

  • 1 instructional step by step DVD on how to build an ultralight boat.
  • 3 boat plans (solo canoe, double canoe, rowboat)
  •  (one person canoe kit has 12' of ballistic nylon skin) .
  • 1 length of white nylon string to sew the ribbons to the stem.
  • 1 roll of lashing (enough for two boats)
  • 33m of double-sided tape
  • 1 bag of zip ties
  • 1 japanese utility saw
  • 4 copper ferrules
  • Screws for thwarts
  • 4 sets of caps and washers for the thwarts
  • 36 #8 x 1" wood screws
  • 40 #8 x 5/8" wood screws
  • 1 bottle of glue
  • 72 canoe tacks
  • 2 logos and thread and small needle
  • 30' of piping
  • 2 needles
  • We're always at the other end of the phone if you need help!

Price: $297.00


Canoe Kit – finished boat size 10.5 foot – for one person

$297.00
Author

Everything you need except the wood - we recommend sourcing your own wood locally in order to save shipping costs and kit cost - what to buy is explained in the DVD.

Select your required boat type below.

The kit includes all the following materials:

  • 1 instructional step by step DVD on how to build an ultralight boat.
  • 3 boat plans (solo canoe, double canoe, rowboat)
  •  (one person canoe kit has 12' of ballistic nylon skin) .
  • 1 length of white nylon string to sew the ribbons to the stem.
  • 1 roll of lashing (enough for two boats)
  • 33m of double-sided tape
  • 1 bag of zip ties
  • 1 japanese utility saw
  • 4 copper ferrules
  • Screws for thwarts
  • 4 sets of caps and washers for the thwarts
  • 36 #8 x 1" wood screws
  • 40 #8 x 5/8" wood screws
  • 1 bottle of glue
  • 72 canoe tacks
  • 2 logos and thread and small needle
  • 30' of piping
  • 2 needles
  • We're always at the other end of the phone if you need help!
Instructional DVD – Build Your Own Ultralight Skin-on-Frame Canoe + Plans $39.99

Instructional DVD – Build Your Own Ultralight Skin-on-Frame Canoe + Plans

Instructional DVD – Build Your Own Ultralight Skin-on-Frame Canoe + Plans

instructions to build a canoe

This easy to follow step by step video will take you carefully and clearly through every stage of building a beautiful ultralight skin-on-frame boat.

It lists and describes the equipment and materials you will need, leads you through the building of the molds, the construction of the frame, covering it with the skin, varnishing and putting in the finishing touches.   It also equips you with tips and techniques learnt over many years of boat-building experience.  It enables a complete novice to build a boat, but even the seasoned carpenter will find it indispensable!


Using the plans included with the dvd you can build a one or two person canoe, or a three to four person rowboat.

We are always willing to respond to emails and phone calls if you have a question.

When you purchase the video you will receive a link to a page of 12 video chapters totalling 1 hour and 50 minutes and plans for 1 or 2 person canoes and a 3-4 person rowboat.

We are so confident that, whatever your level of expertise, you will derive great benefit from this instructional video, and that it will enable you to build a beautiful, functional boat that we are offering you a money-back guarantee. Simply inform us within 30 days of purchase that you are unhappy with your purchase and we will refund your payment.

boat building video

Old Price: $49.99

Price: $39.99

You save: $10.00! (20.00%)


Sale

Instructional DVD – Build Your Own Ultralight Skin-on-Frame Canoe + Plans

$39.99
Author

instructions to build a canoe

This easy to follow step by step video will take you carefully and clearly through every stage of building a beautiful ultralight skin-on-frame boat.

It lists and describes the equipment and materials you will need, leads you through the building of the molds, the construction of the frame, covering it with the skin, varnishing and putting in the finishing touches.   It also equips you with tips and techniques learnt over many years of boat-building experience.  It enables a complete novice to build a boat, but even the seasoned carpenter will find it indispensable!


Using the plans included with the dvd you can build a one or two person canoe, or a three to four person rowboat.

We are always willing to respond to emails and phone calls if you have a question.

When you purchase the video you will receive a link to a page of 12 video chapters totalling 1 hour and 50 minutes and plans for 1 or 2 person canoes and a 3-4 person rowboat.

We are so confident that, whatever your level of expertise, you will derive great benefit from this instructional video, and that it will enable you to build a beautiful, functional boat that we are offering you a money-back guarantee. Simply inform us within 30 days of purchase that you are unhappy with your purchase and we will refund your payment.

boat building video

Ballistic Nylon Skin $10.00

Ballistic Nylon Skin

Ballistic Nylon Skin

This is $10 per foot.  Just enter the number of feet you require in the quantity box.

Price: $10.00


Ballistic Nylon Skin

$10.00

This is $10 per foot.  Just enter the number of feet you require in the quantity box.

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When we first started out making boats, we had a Big Idea. The idea was to design a boat that was very light, easy to handle and manoeuvre, safe, tough as nails and not least of all, beautiful to look at. We think that we have accomplished that with these boats, and that’s why, for more than a decade now, we really haven’t changed much on them, except to make them tougher yet.

We believe that boating should be all about fun. If you have a heavy boat it can sometimes seem like more of a chore. You might find the thought of taking the boat down to the water a little off-putting. If you do then our boats are the solution.

But don’t let their lightness fool you into thinking they must be flimsy! Our canoes, kayaks and rowboats are built from a material that is amazingly resilient.  Hit a rock underwater – no problem – it bounces off.

Just by looking at them you can see how light they are, but you’d never guess that you can hit them with a hammer or scratch them with a knife and not do any damage. Dreamcatcher boats are made from the same material used to make bullet proof vests – if it’ll stop grenade fragments then barnacles and dog claws dont present a big problem.

Because they’re so tough they’re great boats for taking the dog and the kids along, in fact the kids can even manage them themselves, and because they’re so light and easy to carry, you’ll be out enjoying the water every chance you get.  Just throw the boat on top of the car.

The tumblehome on the boat makes it very difficult to capsize – it is designed to stay upright and keep its occupants safe and dry!
These eye-catching boats are beautifully lashed together by hand giving them a distinctive and captivating look.

They are inspired by J.H. Rushton’s designs, from around 1885, which are hard to improve on, and over a hundred years of comments and reviews have only proven the point.

We’ll build you one of our regular models or a custom-made boat – made to your specifications. Or we’ll help you build your own – why not make it a family project?

Take the heavy-lifting out of boating. Ride your dreams.

One person canoe / open kayak $1,299.00

One person canoe / open kayak

One person canoe / open kayak

solo canoe
Ultralight one person skin-on-frame canoe - beautiful, super tough, safe and durable.

This boat weighs about 20lbs, is 10.5 feet long and tough as nails. It is stable and will safely carry an adult and a small child (or dog). It is as easy for a child to handle as an adult. The tumblehome on the boat makes it very difficult to capsize - it is designed to stay upright and keep its occupants safe and dry! It has a pivoting backrest which adjusts to your every move and provides a relaxing and comfortable paddling experience! Great for exploring.

Like all our boats they are carefully lashed together by hand giving them the distinctive and captivating Dreamcatcher look.

Price: $1,299.00


One person canoe / open kayak

$1,299.00

solo canoe
Ultralight one person skin-on-frame canoe - beautiful, super tough, safe and durable.

This boat weighs about 20lbs, is 10.5 feet long and tough as nails. It is stable and will safely carry an adult and a small child (or dog). It is as easy for a child to handle as an adult. The tumblehome on the boat makes it very difficult to capsize - it is designed to stay upright and keep its occupants safe and dry! It has a pivoting backrest which adjusts to your every move and provides a relaxing and comfortable paddling experience! Great for exploring.

Like all our boats they are carefully lashed together by hand giving them the distinctive and captivating Dreamcatcher look.

Rushton Rowboat $2,399.00

Rushton Rowboat

Rushton Rowboat

This elegant rowboat is versatile, very fast and extremely sea-worthy. It has seats which make it comfortable for people who are not as flexible as they were, and, at around 45lbs and 14,5 feet, is still easily manageable to put on top of your car.

Like all our boats they are carefully lashed together by hand giving them the distinctive and captivating Dreamcatcher look.

Old Price: $2,999.00

Price: $2,399.00

You save: $600.00! (20.01%)


Sale

Rushton Rowboat

$2,399.00

This elegant rowboat is versatile, very fast and extremely sea-worthy. It has seats which make it comfortable for people who are not as flexible as they were, and, at around 45lbs and 14,5 feet, is still easily manageable to put on top of your car.

Like all our boats they are carefully lashed together by hand giving them the distinctive and captivating Dreamcatcher look.

Two Person Canoe $1,499.00

Two Person Canoe

Two Person Canoe

2 man decked canoe
Two person ultralight canoe
This canoe is 14.5 feet long, approximate weight 33 lbs. It will carry 2 adults and a small child (or dog). It has 2 pivoting backrests which adjust with your movement.

Like all our boats they are carefully lashed together by hand giving them the distinctive and captivating Dreamcatcher look.

This boat comes with or without a covered deck.

Price: $1,499.00


Two Person Canoe

$1,499.00

2 man decked canoe
Two person ultralight canoe
This canoe is 14.5 feet long, approximate weight 33 lbs. It will carry 2 adults and a small child (or dog). It has 2 pivoting backrests which adjust with your movement.

Like all our boats they are carefully lashed together by hand giving them the distinctive and captivating Dreamcatcher look.

This boat comes with or without a covered deck.

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We offer individual tuition and group boat building classes in Vancouver, BC. Contact us for `Organize your own group` specials which can be arranged in Vancouver or elsewhere.

Our boats are built on the K.I.S.S. principle (keep it simple stupid). And although these boats are handmade and the process is simple, they are beautiful, lightweight, and very strong. These are ideal projects for the beginner boat builder as well as the advanced craftsman.

The Free Lassie (based on J. Henry Rushton’s Wee Lassie), a one person or single canoe can be built in one weekend by a novice and yet they are beautiful, durable, impressive boats. We also offer classes to build a 2 man canoe.

This is a wonderful project for a parent and child, school group, club event, summer camp, team building or corporate event, or even just for adults who want to get themselves out on the water but have doubts and fears as to their abilities and skill.
Under Brian Chandler’s easy and informal guidance, you will be taught the principles of boat building along with a mystique destroying and problem solving attitude to achieve your final goal — a beautiful self-styled and completed boat.
Before you know it, you will be engaged in building your own canoe or kayak, hands on and marveling at your own newfound skill. In this fun and informative class, you will receive all the encouragement and support you need to get the job done.

Organize a Boat Building Group $1,200.00

Organize a Boat Building Group

Organize a Boat Building Group

GET A GROUP OF PEOPLE TOGETHER TO LEARN HOW TO BUILD A BOAT AND YOU GET THE BOAT FREE!

build a canoe

Brian Chandler will teach a group of people how to build a boat for $1200.  At the end of the class the boat is yours.  So, for example, if you get 6 people for the class and charge them each $200 you get a free boat.  If you get 12 people for the class, you can charge them $100 each and get a free boat!

This is a limited time offer and applies only in Vancouver, BC.  If you want the same deal elsewhere, just add Brian's travel and accommodation costs to the $1200.

Contact us to arrange your free boat today! 

Dreamcatcher boats are built on the K.I.S.S. principle (keep it simple stupid). These are ideal projects for the beginner boat builder as well as the advanced craftsman, so everyone is included in the fun and contributes towards the finished boat.

This is a wonderful project for a school group, club event, summer camp, team building or corporate event, or even a group of friends looking for an event with a difference. We'll tailor the event to your requirements, but you can be sure there`ll always be lots of fun and confidence building included.
Contact us to find out how we encourage teamwork and communication, boost morale and improve employee engagement for your company event.

Under Brian Chandler's easy and informal guidance, you will be taught the principles of boat building along with a mystique destroying and problem solving attitude to achieve your final goal -- a beautiful self-styled and completed boat.
Before you know it, you will all be engaged hands-on in building your own canoe or kayak, and marveling at your own newfound skill.
You'll also learn to:

  • Trust your own judgement.
  • Use a handsaw to cut accurate compound angles with ease.
  • Fair lines and curves, and
  • Use your own unique creativity and sense of esthetics.

In this fun and informative class, Brian will supply you with all the know-how, techniques, encouragement and support you need to get the job done.

Old Price: $1,800.00

Price: $1,200.00

You save: $600.00! (33.33%)


Sale

Organize a Boat Building Group

$1,200.00

GET A GROUP OF PEOPLE TOGETHER TO LEARN HOW TO BUILD A BOAT AND YOU GET THE BOAT FREE!

build a canoe

Brian Chandler will teach a group of people how to build a boat for $1200.  At the end of the class the boat is yours.  So, for example, if you get 6 people for the class and charge them each $200 you get a free boat.  If you get 12 people for the class, you can charge them $100 each and get a free boat!

This is a limited time offer and applies only in Vancouver, BC.  If you want the same deal elsewhere, just add Brian's travel and accommodation costs to the $1200.

Contact us to arrange your free boat today! 

Dreamcatcher boats are built on the K.I.S.S. principle (keep it simple stupid). These are ideal projects for the beginner boat builder as well as the advanced craftsman, so everyone is included in the fun and contributes towards the finished boat.

This is a wonderful project for a school group, club event, summer camp, team building or corporate event, or even a group of friends looking for an event with a difference. We'll tailor the event to your requirements, but you can be sure there`ll always be lots of fun and confidence building included.
Contact us to find out how we encourage teamwork and communication, boost morale and improve employee engagement for your company event.

Under Brian Chandler's easy and informal guidance, you will be taught the principles of boat building along with a mystique destroying and problem solving attitude to achieve your final goal -- a beautiful self-styled and completed boat.
Before you know it, you will all be engaged hands-on in building your own canoe or kayak, and marveling at your own newfound skill.
You'll also learn to:

  • Trust your own judgement.
  • Use a handsaw to cut accurate compound angles with ease.
  • Fair lines and curves, and
  • Use your own unique creativity and sense of esthetics.

In this fun and informative class, Brian will supply you with all the know-how, techniques, encouragement and support you need to get the job done.

Individual Boat Building Classes $300.00

Individual Boat Building Classes

Individual Boat Building Classes

build a lightweight canoe
Receive the supervision and guidance of an experienced boat builder as you build your own beautiful skin-on-frame boat of choice.  No previous experience necessary.

Price does not include the boat kit - tuition only.

Price: $300.00


Individual Boat Building Classes

$300.00

build a lightweight canoe
Receive the supervision and guidance of an experienced boat builder as you build your own beautiful skin-on-frame boat of choice.  No previous experience necessary.

Price does not include the boat kit - tuition only.

Shopping Cart

Our boats are designed for relaxing on the water. Our Kayaks are more like a covered canoe – more stable than a regular kayak, with more wiggle room. They’re not designed for turtle rolls. So if you prefer to stay dry and upright, and you like to move your legs around, then our boats are for you.

We offer different shapes and sizes of canoes or kayaks to accommodate single paddlers, couples, or small families.

Come down to False Creek, Vancouver, BC and spend a few hours enjoying the water and the sunshine. Drop in to Granville Island, pay a visit to Yaletown, or just go for a leisurely paddle and mess about in the boat!

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folding kayakWhat if you could pack your kayak away into a bag after the day’s paddle, throw it over your shoulder and store it in a closet? Or keep it in the trunk of your car, for whenever you come across a river or lake and you get the urge to paddle? You can with Pakboats.

Pakboats are fast, tough, safe, rigid framed canoes and kayaks which fold up into a bag! They can be put together (once you know what you`re doing) in less than half an hour.

Pakboats Design

folding kayaks
The chief consideration behind the Pakboats design is to achieve excellent function for the intended use. Pakboats are intended for various uses! That’s why there are different models with a wide range of structural designs.

All Pakboats are designed with a waterproof skin covering a framework of interlocking longitudinal rods and shaped cross ribs. On each side between skin and frame is an inflatable tube with multiple inflatable chambers for secure flotation. The inflatable tubes also act as built-in fenders, and by inflating the tubes, you add tension to the skin. The inflatable tubes are also an important safety feature. Placing a generous amount of flotation in any boat is an obvious benefit.

There are three different types of Pakboat – Puffins, XTs and PakCanoes.

Puffin (Recreational) Design

The Puffin family of folding kayaks offers an unbeatable combination of great performance, light weight, and simplicity at affordable prices. And all this without giving up the solid dependability that has made PakCanoes favorites among expedition canoers.
Three basic elements interact to form the Puffin’s structure:

* The skin is the outside cover that “keeps the water out”. It is made of woven synthetic fabric coated with PVC. A heavy duty fabric forms the boat bottom, and lighter fabric is used for the sides. Stress points are reinforced for years of trouble free use.

* The frame is made of anodized structural aluminum tubing with a combination of high strength and corrosion resistance.

* Between skin and frame in the sides are inflatable tubes that act as flotation and give tension to the skin. These relatively large diameter tubes also help stiffen the boat. To tolerate the working pressure, the tubes have a strong fabric outer surface laminated to durable polyurethane film to form two separate air holding cells on each side of the kaykak.

Puffin seats are inflatable and made of high-grade polyurethane coated material. The seats have adjustable back rests and built-in lumbar support. They are very comfortable!

Puffins have extremely simple frames. There are only three longitudinal rods – two gunwales and a keel, and a number of cross ribs that connect the longitudinal rods. To make this work we had to develop a new way to give the boat longitudinal tension. This was done by placing a “hinge” in the keel. When the keel and stems are installed in the boat, the “hinge” is at an angle. As the cross members are installed, the keel gradually becomes straight and tensions the skin. Side to side tension is produced by inflating the air tubes.

Placing inflatable tubes along the sides in a kayak does more than provide light-weight structure. Puffins have much more built-in flotation than other kayaks. And placing the flotation along the sides makes Puffins incredibly stable after a capsize. Two separate air cells on each side of the hull provide security in case a cell is punctured. Note: Inflatable boats have even more flotation, but their paddling performance is poor, and a similar size inflatable weighs about 50% more than a Puffin.

Puffin decks are attached with a strip of Velcro around the hull just below the gunwales. An aluminum cockpit rim provides support for a spray skirt. The separate deck makes it much easier to pack gear into the kayak. Simply remove the deck, load your gear into the boat, and reinstall the deck. If a piece of gear does not quite fit, let a little air our of the air tubes, stow the gear, and reinflate the tubes. (Make sure no sharp objects touch the inflatable parts.)

Puffin Saranac $1,075.00

Puffin Saranac

Puffin Saranac


The Saranac is a lightwieght 15 ft folding kayak for one or two people. The new Saranac hull and deck fabrics are very attractive and give the kayak a sporty new look. Optional Saranac decks offer one or two cockpits that can support spray skirts, making this kayak as versatile as it is good looking. Leave the decks behind for fishing convenience. Use the double deck for a day trip with a friend, or take the solo deck for a couple of weeks of camping.the Saranac will take it all in stride.

The Saranac comes standard without decks. The newly designed self supporting double deck can be purchased for $265 and the single deck for $195

Price: $1,075.00


Puffin Saranac

$1,075.00


The Saranac is a lightwieght 15 ft folding kayak for one or two people. The new Saranac hull and deck fabrics are very attractive and give the kayak a sporty new look. Optional Saranac decks offer one or two cockpits that can support spray skirts, making this kayak as versatile as it is good looking. Leave the decks behind for fishing convenience. Use the double deck for a day trip with a friend, or take the solo deck for a couple of weeks of camping.the Saranac will take it all in stride.

The Saranac comes standard without decks. The newly designed self supporting double deck can be purchased for $265 and the single deck for $195

Puffin Saco $890.00

Puffin Saco

Puffin Saco


The Saco has a convenient open hull that will not get in the way of your fishing and an optional deck with a cockpit large enough to make it easy to get in and out of the kayak. It is 12 ft long and lightweight (only 20 pounds). The Saco has been upgraded with new, very attractive fabrics and a unique self supporting deck. It is fast and tracks well.

(approved by the North American Fishing Club)
fishing boat approval

Price: $890.00


Puffin Saco

$890.00


The Saco has a convenient open hull that will not get in the way of your fishing and an optional deck with a cockpit large enough to make it easy to get in and out of the kayak. It is 12 ft long and lightweight (only 20 pounds). The Saco has been upgraded with new, very attractive fabrics and a unique self supporting deck. It is fast and tracks well.

(approved by the North American Fishing Club)
fishing boat approval

XT (Touring) Design

XT kayaks are very fast, and over-all paddling performance is exceptional. A new stiff frame structure lets us build longer efficient hulls with consistent rocker, and a multi-chine cross section further enhances performance. The moderate depth of the hulls minimizes wind effects and gets the gunwales out of the way of your hands for comfortable paddling.

The XT, a completely new frame revolutionary structure.. The challenge was to make a long and sleek folding kayak with excellent stiffness. In other folding kayaks, the designers often rely on a deck structure to give the hull enough depth to enhance stiffness. We wanted to be independent of the deck. The solution turned out to be 6″ wide I-beams along each side of the hulls.

Unlike other Pakboats where longitudinal skin tension is built gradually as the frame is assembled in the skin, XT frames are built outside the skin, so a new lever system for tensioning is used. The levers transfer tension to the I-beams and push against the ends of the kayak skin.

The XTs have inflatable tubes like the other Pakboats. Inflating the tubes makes the skin nice and tight. and the the ends of the tubes are tapered to get the sharp entry lines of a high-performance touring kayak.

The XT decks are very different from decks we used to have on the Puffins (but a simplified version of the new XT deck has migrated back to the Puffins). The XT decks are solidly supported and at the same time the seat positions can be changed freely so an XT can be used both solo and double. So a deck support structure is built into the deck itself. No part of the kayak frame is intended to support the deck, so the hull can be completely open. The cockpits and seats can be placed without regard to any part of the frame.

XTs have a sling type seatv that is suspended from the sides and doesn`t touch the bottom fabric. It is very comfortable and easily packable. On top of the front support is an inflatable adjustable thigh support. The back band can be adjusted independent of the seat.

Pakboats XT-15 Solo Folding Kayak $1,775.00

Pakboats XT-15 Solo Folding Kayak

Pakboats XT-15 Solo Folding Kayak

folding kayak
The 23 inch beam and moderate volume makes it a great kayak for day tripping or a few days of camping. Its speed makes miles easy, and great stability lets you relax and enjoy the ride. This is a proven travel kayak.
XTs come with far more flotation built in than most other kayaks, and unlike almost all other kayaks, XTs have the flotation placed along the sides where it does most good. The XTs have 3 separate inflatable air bladders on each side for a total of 6. You can puncture a couple and still have more flotation left than most other kayaks.
Because the deck support is built into the deck itself, the hull is completely open - making the XTs incredibly easy to load. The Velcro seal around the deck eases assembly greatly - and the water stays out of the boat! The new Pakboats cockpit is longer to make it easier to get in and out of the kayak, and it has built-in corners that grab the spray skirt so it is easy to get on.
XT kayaks are very fast, and over-all paddling performance is exceptional. A new stiff frame structure lets us build longer efficient hulls with consistent rocker, and a multi-chine cross section further enhances performance. The moderate depth of the hulls minimizes wind effects and gets the gunwales out of the way of your hands for comfortable paddling.

Length: 15 ft (455 cm), Beam: 23 in (58 cm), Depth: 10 in (25 cm), Capacity: 300 lbs, 135 kg, Weight: 39 lbs (17.7 kg), Packed Bag Size: 33 in x 12 in x 20 in

Please note that shipping and handling is NOT INCLUDED in the price, and will be charged on receipt of the boat.

Price: $1,775.00


Pakboats XT-15 Solo Folding Kayak

$1,775.00

folding kayak
The 23 inch beam and moderate volume makes it a great kayak for day tripping or a few days of camping. Its speed makes miles easy, and great stability lets you relax and enjoy the ride. This is a proven travel kayak.
XTs come with far more flotation built in than most other kayaks, and unlike almost all other kayaks, XTs have the flotation placed along the sides where it does most good. The XTs have 3 separate inflatable air bladders on each side for a total of 6. You can puncture a couple and still have more flotation left than most other kayaks.
Because the deck support is built into the deck itself, the hull is completely open - making the XTs incredibly easy to load. The Velcro seal around the deck eases assembly greatly - and the water stays out of the boat! The new Pakboats cockpit is longer to make it easier to get in and out of the kayak, and it has built-in corners that grab the spray skirt so it is easy to get on.
XT kayaks are very fast, and over-all paddling performance is exceptional. A new stiff frame structure lets us build longer efficient hulls with consistent rocker, and a multi-chine cross section further enhances performance. The moderate depth of the hulls minimizes wind effects and gets the gunwales out of the way of your hands for comfortable paddling.

Length: 15 ft (455 cm), Beam: 23 in (58 cm), Depth: 10 in (25 cm), Capacity: 300 lbs, 135 kg, Weight: 39 lbs (17.7 kg), Packed Bag Size: 33 in x 12 in x 20 in

Please note that shipping and handling is NOT INCLUDED in the price, and will be charged on receipt of the boat.

Pakboats XT-16 Double Folding Kayak $1,995.00

Pakboats XT-16 Double Folding Kayak

Pakboats XT-16 Double Folding Kayak

XT-16 Double is great for day trips and a couple of nights of camping. Its stability makes almost anybody feel secure, and its performance makes miles easy. But the XT-16's most unique feature may be that you can replace the deck and turn it into a high-volume solo touring kayak. There is no need to compromise on trim and paddle from the stern cockpit. With the optional solo deck you have a perfectly balanced kayak every time.xt-16-going-fast

Length: 16 ft (485 cm), Beam: 26 in (66 cm), Depth: 10 in (25 cm), Capacity: 460 lbs 210 kg

Weight: 46 lbs (20.9 kg)

Packed Bag Size: 33 in x 21 in x 14 in

Price: $1,995.00


Pakboats XT-16 Double Folding Kayak

$1,995.00

XT-16 Double is great for day trips and a couple of nights of camping. Its stability makes almost anybody feel secure, and its performance makes miles easy. But the XT-16's most unique feature may be that you can replace the deck and turn it into a high-volume solo touring kayak. There is no need to compromise on trim and paddle from the stern cockpit. With the optional solo deck you have a perfectly balanced kayak every time.xt-16-going-fast

Length: 16 ft (485 cm), Beam: 26 in (66 cm), Depth: 10 in (25 cm), Capacity: 460 lbs 210 kg

Weight: 46 lbs (20.9 kg)

Packed Bag Size: 33 in x 21 in x 14 in

Pakboats XT-17 Folding Solo Kayak $1,775.00

Pakboats XT-17 Folding Solo Kayak

Pakboats XT-17 Folding Solo Kayak


XT-17 Solo has the capacity to handle gear for extended trips and can accommodate large paddlers. Its paddling performance makes long days easy. The solid stability lets you relax and be comfortable in the XT-17. D-rings on each side simplifies installation of deck rigging.

Length: 17 ft (520 cm), Beam 24 in (60 cm), Depth 10 in (25 cm), Capacity: 330 lbs, 150 kg, Weight: 44 lbs, 20 kg, Packed Bag Size: 33 in x 21 in x 14 in

Price: $1,775.00


Pakboats XT-17 Folding Solo Kayak

$1,775.00


XT-17 Solo has the capacity to handle gear for extended trips and can accommodate large paddlers. Its paddling performance makes long days easy. The solid stability lets you relax and be comfortable in the XT-17. D-rings on each side simplifies installation of deck rigging.

Length: 17 ft (520 cm), Beam 24 in (60 cm), Depth 10 in (25 cm), Capacity: 330 lbs, 150 kg, Weight: 44 lbs, 20 kg, Packed Bag Size: 33 in x 21 in x 14 in

PakCanoe Design

In designing the PakCanoe our goal was to make a canoe that would be superior in safety, performance, convenience, and aesthetics.

PakCanoe hulls are formed by a reinforced PVC skin held under tension by an interlocking framework of tubular aluminum. Seat positions adjust to trim the canoe. Because the PakCanoe hull is flexible you stay drier. Its flexibility allows it to ride over waves rather than crash into them and take in water. The canoe will absorb severe impact and usually slide over or by rocks with no damage where fiberglass, kevlar, or aluminum canoes crack or get hung up. In this respect, the PakCanoe behaves much like ABS boats weighing 20 – 30 lbs more.

Disassembled the PakCanoe stores in a 35″x18″x14″ bag, small enough to fit in even the smallest car or closet.

Unique “Dual Shape” feature
The 14, 15, and 16.5 foot PakCanoes have the option of two alternative hull shapes. You can have a wide, relatively flat bottom canoe with excellent stability for family use or fishing. By replacing 5 cross ribs in the PakCanoe 150T you turn it into a deeper and narrower backcountry/whitewater canoe. Note: PakCanoe 150T is a wide and stable sport canoe. 140, 150, and 165 are deeper and narrower backcountry canoes with great whitewater performance (a 150 was used to run the Grand Canyon). If you’d like both options, a conversion kit containing the needed cross ribs is available.

Individual Parts:

1) Canoe Skin

PakCanoe skins are made of a heavy-duty synthetic fabric coated with high-abrasion-resistance PVC. Under each frame rod is welded a heavy-duty wear strip to further enhance abrasion resistance. Thinner reinforcement strips are welded over the gunwales. At each cross rib position a reinforcement patch is welded on the inside of the gunwale channel. At each end of PakCanoe skins a stainless steel D-ring is factory installed to serve as anchor point for ropes.

2) Closed Cell Foam Pad

A foam pad on the bottom under the frame eliminates pressure points where the skin would rest directly against the frame, and the effect is a great improvement in abrasion resistance. This medium density polyethylene foam is 1/4″ thick and is attached to the canoe skin with a strap at each end to hold it in position. When the canoe is packed, the foam is rolled up with the skin.

3) Frame

Most of the frame parts are made of 5/8″ diameter medium-strength aluminum tubing (really high strength grades are too brittle). Shock corded sections fit together to form all longitudinal rods, and parts are color coded for easy assembly. To minimize the potential for rod connections “freezing” (corroding so they can’t be separated), we have built in a little extra space in the joints. The joints feel a little loose, but this has no effect on performance, and it it is likely to save you some problems. Shock cords are terminated at each end in a way that makes replacement easy if that shoud be needed.

Cross ribs and stems are bent to shape and have plastic hardware installed with pop rivets. The plastic clips interlock, and in some cases lock to each other. Lockable clips grab the gunwales securely, and latch clips on two longitudinal rods connect to the ribs on the bottom.

The stems are the most vulnerable parts of the frame. From 2011 the stems are made of 3/4″ diameter aluminum that the keel fits inside of. The new larger dimension resists damage much better than the 5/8″ did. Because stems are most often replaced, spare stems are adjustable to fit just like the original ones did.

4) Air Tubes

Air sponsons between the skin and the frame greatly facilitate assembly. The frame is easily assembled with minimal tension in the skin. As the air sponsons are inflated they tension the skin and provide rigidity to the hull. Under way, the sponsons act as built-in fenders to protect the PakCanoe sides from damage.

Placement of air sponsons along the sides improves safety by reducing the amount of water in the canoe after a capsize and stabilizing it once it has taken on water. Each sponson has 3 air chambers so a puncture will not affect the canoe’s performance.

5) PakCanoe Seats

From 2008 PakCanoe seats are similar to seats found in most rigid canoes, except that PakCanoe seats can be installed at several heights, and they are adjustable fore-and-aft.

Other versions of PakCanoe seats are adjustable to support sitting or kneeling positions. The change can be performed with one hand in 5 seconds – in or out of the boat. To trim the canoe, the seats can be moved to several alternative locations. A sliding seat is also available. The sliding seat can be positioned anywhere between two cross ribs. A sliding seat helps trim the canoe and allows fitting a third party spray cover with cockpit openings that don’t match our standard seat placement. This seat allows limited space between the seat and the sides of the canoe when used as a stern seat.

6) Pump

The efficient yet compact double action pump attaches to the valves and makes inflation easy.

7) Repair Kit

A PakCanoe repair kit includes repair material for canoe bottom and sides as well as easy-to-use contact adhesive.

8) Storage Bag (35″x18″x14″)

The storage bag is made of heavy duty polyurethane coated fabric and closes like a sailor’s duffelbag. The bag’s bottom is padded with a foam pad to protect the reod’ shock cords.

PakCanoe 170 $2,195.00

PakCanoe 170

PakCanoe 170

folding canoe
PakCanoe 170 is the wilderness work horse. It will carry enough gear for a full scale expedition. Because of its larger size, it spreads the load over a larger surface area and will float in shallower water.

beam 38" / 96 cm, Depth 14" / 36 cm, Weight 56 lbs / 25.5 kg, Length 17' / 520 cm, Capacity 910 lbs / 415 kg

folding canoe

Price: $2,195.00


PakCanoe 170

$2,195.00

folding canoe
PakCanoe 170 is the wilderness work horse. It will carry enough gear for a full scale expedition. Because of its larger size, it spreads the load over a larger surface area and will float in shallower water.

beam 38" / 96 cm, Depth 14" / 36 cm, Weight 56 lbs / 25.5 kg, Length 17' / 520 cm, Capacity 910 lbs / 415 kg

folding canoe

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Sit back and relax for a while and glide through the water under sail with this light, easy to use sail. It is the ideal partner for Dreamcatcher Boats or Pakboats.

KayakSailor Sail Rig for Kayaks and Canoes $649.00

KayakSailor Sail Rig for Kayaks and Canoes

KayakSailor Sail Rig for Kayaks and Canoes

The Kayaksailor™ is designed to transform your boat into a high performance, sailing, paddle craft. Now performance sailing is easy because everything is set up for you. The remarkable patented design uses the exclusive Magic Track™ mast step, enabling the sail to be instantly raised or lowered from a seated position. An ultra efficient, fully battened sail, balanced with precisely foiled retractable lee boards, gives amazing upwind performance . This undeniable efficiency allows the boat to slip through the wind with ease. Forward rig placement allows for paddling and bracing while under sail. Materials are of the highest quality, and are designed to withstand harsh marine environments.

With 1.6 square meters of sail area, this rig has the power to impress. Because of its higher center of effort, this rig works best with sit-on-tops, tandems and large paddlers. It weighs 10 lbs/4.5kg,measures 86"/214.4cm high and can accommodate boats up to 37"/94cm in width. It transforms heavy boats into lively cruisers and can be used on touring boats in very light breezes.
Easily attached to Dreamcatcherboats kayaks and canoes and Pakboats.

kayak sailing rig

sail on kayak

When attached to the Dreamcatcherboats solo canoe - you end up with a high performance sailing canoe weighting less than 35lbs altogether!

Product Details

All of the aluminum has been bright dipped polished with a thick anodized coating for superior corrosion resistance. Plastic components a high quality Delrin for increased strength and lubricity. The window size has been enlarged for improved visibility and the luff sleeve widened for effortless sail rotation. We have increased the sail draft in the lower panels for maximizing light wind performance, tweeked the balance of the rig for improved rudderless sailing and have included tell tales to assist you in finding the perfect sail trim. In addition, we have upgraded the webbing straps with ribbed webbing to eliminate slipping and enlarged the carry bag and sail cover for ease of use.

Details include: compact design and attention to detail, integrated downhaul/ boom vang, sail reefing, tool less disassembly for easy transport, precisely foiled leeboards, custom sail cover, cool travel bag and mounting kit

Features:

  • Fiberglass reinforced leeboards
  • Polished anodized aluminum spars and body
  • UV stabilized components
  • Stainless steel fasteners
  • Premium urethane coated ripstop sailcloth from Challenge®.
  • High tech cordage from FSE/Robline®, Samson®, and New England Ropes®
  • Performance sailing equipment from Harken®, Ronstan®, and RWO®
  • Spring loaded CamLock buckle system for easy attachment to hull
  • High density foam padding on main body tube to protect your boat
  • UV resistant custom sail cover and carry bag
  • Mounting Kit

Dimensions:
The length of the main body tube is 44.5"/135.25cm
The length of the rig from the front of the main body tube to the back of the boom, with the sail raised, is 67"/170.2cm
The distance between shroud rings is 21"/53.3cm
Maximum distance between leeboards is 37"/93.9cm
Minimum distance between leeboards is 23"/58.4cm
Distance from the center of the cross tube to the front of the main body tube is 33.5"/85cm
Distance from the center of the cross tube to the rear of the main body tube is 11"/28cm

Please note - shipping and handling is not included in the price. They will be charged uon arrival.

Price: $649.00


KayakSailor Sail Rig for Kayaks and Canoes

$649.00

The Kayaksailor™ is designed to transform your boat into a high performance, sailing, paddle craft. Now performance sailing is easy because everything is set up for you. The remarkable patented design uses the exclusive Magic Track™ mast step, enabling the sail to be instantly raised or lowered from a seated position. An ultra efficient, fully battened sail, balanced with precisely foiled retractable lee boards, gives amazing upwind performance . This undeniable efficiency allows the boat to slip through the wind with ease. Forward rig placement allows for paddling and bracing while under sail. Materials are of the highest quality, and are designed to withstand harsh marine environments.

With 1.6 square meters of sail area, this rig has the power to impress. Because of its higher center of effort, this rig works best with sit-on-tops, tandems and large paddlers. It weighs 10 lbs/4.5kg,measures 86"/214.4cm high and can accommodate boats up to 37"/94cm in width. It transforms heavy boats into lively cruisers and can be used on touring boats in very light breezes.
Easily attached to Dreamcatcherboats kayaks and canoes and Pakboats.

kayak sailing rig

sail on kayak

When attached to the Dreamcatcherboats solo canoe - you end up with a high performance sailing canoe weighting less than 35lbs altogether!

Product Details

All of the aluminum has been bright dipped polished with a thick anodized coating for superior corrosion resistance. Plastic components a high quality Delrin for increased strength and lubricity. The window size has been enlarged for improved visibility and the luff sleeve widened for effortless sail rotation. We have increased the sail draft in the lower panels for maximizing light wind performance, tweeked the balance of the rig for improved rudderless sailing and have included tell tales to assist you in finding the perfect sail trim. In addition, we have upgraded the webbing straps with ribbed webbing to eliminate slipping and enlarged the carry bag and sail cover for ease of use.

Details include: compact design and attention to detail, integrated downhaul/ boom vang, sail reefing, tool less disassembly for easy transport, precisely foiled leeboards, custom sail cover, cool travel bag and mounting kit

Features:

  • Fiberglass reinforced leeboards
  • Polished anodized aluminum spars and body
  • UV stabilized components
  • Stainless steel fasteners
  • Premium urethane coated ripstop sailcloth from Challenge®.
  • High tech cordage from FSE/Robline®, Samson®, and New England Ropes®
  • Performance sailing equipment from Harken®, Ronstan®, and RWO®
  • Spring loaded CamLock buckle system for easy attachment to hull
  • High density foam padding on main body tube to protect your boat
  • UV resistant custom sail cover and carry bag
  • Mounting Kit

Dimensions:
The length of the main body tube is 44.5"/135.25cm
The length of the rig from the front of the main body tube to the back of the boom, with the sail raised, is 67"/170.2cm
The distance between shroud rings is 21"/53.3cm
Maximum distance between leeboards is 37"/93.9cm
Minimum distance between leeboards is 23"/58.4cm
Distance from the center of the cross tube to the front of the main body tube is 33.5"/85cm
Distance from the center of the cross tube to the rear of the main body tube is 11"/28cm

Please note - shipping and handling is not included in the price. They will be charged uon arrival.

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Everyone went home with their own hand-made paddle at our recent paddle-making workshop. Check out some of the photos: