The 14'6" Solo Portage was the canoe that made my
dream a reality. I started by using 3/16" wood strips, instead of
the 1/4" strips most other builders use. That's a 25% weight savings
right there! The difference in wood thickness does not effect strength.
The real strength of this building method is in the fiberglass cloth and
epoxy resin.
I designed the Solo Portage to be a good tracking solo
canoe with the stability to use as a fishing platform or for nature observation.
The light weight of this canoe make it a joy to portage.
The light-weight of this canoe also makes the handling characteristics
extremely good for this solo canoe, even on windy lakes.
While the Solo Portage is intended to be a solo canoe,
yet it has the carrying capacity to be set up as a tandem canoe if you
wish.
Hi Rob,
"I thought you'd like to know we launched our Solo Portage in the
UK as my father just finished construction.
I have enclosed a coupole pictures of me canoeing on a large tidal inlet
called Chichester Harbour on the sout coast of England. The village you
see is Emsworth.
The boat is unbelievably light and paddles superbly. I have never ever
paddle a canoe that attracts so much attention. One passer-by couldn't
believe I was on the water; if she owned it, it would have a glass top
and be used as a coffee table in her lounge. Now that would be a waste.
If you are ever over here, let me know and come for a paddle."
Regards,
Dave Cooper