best solo canoe trips

Canoeing Solo: A Guide

Maybe you’ve been thinking about canoeing solo for a long time, but you just haven’t pursued it. To many, canoeing is an activity done in tandem and kayaking is its solo alternative. However, canoeing can be a fun and rewarding solo activity if you have the knowledge, technique, and equipment you need.

In today’s article I’ll share why I love to take solo canoe trips, some tips for canoeing solo in a tandem canoe, choosing the best paddle, and equipment and safety gear you should take with you when boating alone.

Why Canoe Solo?

So, why would someone want to set out on a solo voyage in a canoe?

The following is a list of reasons that experienced solo canoers have created to inspire more adventurists to go it alone on the water.

• Solo trips put you in total control of every aspect of the journey. Only you have a say in where you go and when you’ll leave, so coordinating is a non-issue.
• Loading and unloading is much easier with just your gear. Anyone who has ever packed for a trip with the whole family can tell you this.
• While on the trip, you alone create the schedule. If you change your mind about what you originally planned, no one else has to agree.
• Solo canoers often see more wildlife because there is less chatting and it is quieter. Nothing against my wonderful family, but I notice more, and enjoy the trip more when I travel alone by canoe or kayak.
• A solo canoe trip is a good time for relaxing, thinking, and reflecting. You can write, take photographs, and enjoy leaving work, social media, and the stresses of day-to-day life behind.
• Sometimes even the best canoeing buddies have different ways of doing things. When you are by yourself, you always get your own way. There is no pressure to be cordial or risk butting heads.
• If something goes wrong, you only have yourself to blame. These are often the best times to learn better techniques and planning strategies to make future trips better.

Now that we have established why you should take a solo canoe trip, let’s take a look at the right equipment for different adventures. I’ll also talk technique and share some tips I’ve learned from canoeing by myself.

Canoes for Solo Trips

Solo canoeing, more so than tandem excursions, really benefits from a lightweight and easy-to-carry canoe. In my experience you don’t need to buy a canoe that’s designed for solo travel, but it can make navigating and paddling easier if you have the means to do so.

If you’re going to use a tandem, two-seated canoe, then I recommend picking one made of lightweight materials . Kevlar is a good choice.

I also recommend sitting in the front seat of the canoe, facing in the opposite direction.

This places your weight closer to the center of the boat and will make it easier to paddle and control your boat. Place your gear and equipment in front of you, just your side of the rear seat to help balance the weight of your canoe. This also keeps your gear accessible.

Details below give an overview of two canoes for solo adventures that I like and recommend. Both happen to be made by Old Town.

Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman

Outdoor adventurists favor this canoe for many reasons, but its lightweight hybrid design is at the top of the list.

This canoe caters to the solo adventurist by weighing only 56 pounds and having convenient built-in carrying handles.

Made by Old Town, the Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman is considered a hybrid since it has the utility of a canoe and the agility of a kayak. This canoe even lends itself to be used with either a single-bladed or double-bladed paddle.

The Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman has a 3-layer hull construction with a lifetime warranty. The 3-layer design is stable, easy to control, and has a smooth ride. This canoe is also a favorite for its many conveniences. The Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman has a cup holder, shotgun ammo holder, tackle rod storage, and an accessory rack.

The Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman gets a thumbs-up on comfort too. It’s contoured and adjustable kayak-style seat and adjustable foot braces make changing positions quick and comfortable. Padded armrests are a nice feature as well, especially on longer trips.

Finally, the Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman has a spacious hull to hold all of your gear, leaving ample room for stretching your legs, and the seat is positioned perfectly for solo paddling canoe trips.

This canoe is 11″9″ long, 32.5″ wide, and 12.5″ deep. It has a weight capacity of 354 pounds. This is probably my favorite option for solo canoeing, and if you can’t find it locally you can order it on Amazon for around $1,000.

The Next 13 is also a hybrid canoe manufactured by Old Town. Resembling the Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman, the Next 13 has a 3-layer polyethylene hull which is durable and provides a stable, smooth, and easy-to-control ride. This model, however, has more pronounced tumblehome sides and a lower profile for easy paddling.

This canoe has a removable seat and a support-track foot brace system.

Its specs differ from the Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman at 13′ in length, 29″ wide, and 11.5″ deep, making the Next 13 longer and thinner. The Next 13 also has a flat bottom, whereas the Discovery 119 has a shallow arch bottom.

Both solo canoes are top-rated by experienced paddlers. The Next 13 can hold up to 450 pounds and costs just over $1000.

Full disclosure: I haven’t personally used the Next 13, and when I wrote this article, I haven’t been able to find it for sale online, so it may be discontinued. Your best bet may be to try to buy one locally … used if you can find one.

Paddles for Canoeing Solo

Choosing the right paddle for a solo canoe trip may be more important than choosing the right canoe. The paddle needs to be specific for the person and the activity, otherwise you’ll waste effort and tire faster.

For instance, you should choose your canoe paddle based on your height and seat position.

When canoeing with another person … if you sit in the bow, you want a paddle that measures from the floor to mid-chest when you are standing. However, if you sit in the stern, you will need more length. In this position, your paddle should reach from the floor to your collarbone.

For solo canoeing I recommend a longer paddle than you might traditionally use – one that comes to your collarbone.

Single or Double Paddle?

Now, you must consider whether you need a double or single paddle. Traditionalists will assume that a single bladed canoe paddle will be best, but that isn’t always true.

A double-bladed paddle like paddles traditionally used for kayaking will generally make your solo canoe trip less physically demanding because there is no pressure on your body when performing steering stokes.

That said, most solo canoeists who prefer a double-bladed paddle also keep a single-bladed paddle in the canoe for tricky steering situations. This is what I recommend as well.

Reasons a Double Paddle Might Not Work

Although a double-bladed paddle will paddling your canoe easier on your muscles, you will have to endure much more water dripping because of the constant back and forth motion of the paddle. Water drips can be quite uncomfortable in the colder months.

In these times, waterproof pants and gloves are a must for comfort, or you could invest in some drip rings like these ones on Amazon to stop the water before it gets to you.

Can I Use a Kayak Paddle for Canoeing?

If you have a kayak paddle already, you might be thinking you can just use your double-bladed kayak paddle when canoeing solo.

I don’t recommend this.

Double-bladed canoe paddles look a lot like kayak paddles; however, a kayak paddle will often not be long enough for comfortable solo canoeing. Canoes sit higher in the water than kayaks; therefore, longer paddles are necessary to reach the water comfortably … which is the whole point of using a double bladed paddle in your canoe.

Paddle Shapes

Paddle shapes and materials must also be matched for your purpose or adventure when canoeing by yourself.

The three main types of paddles you could use are:

• Beavertail paddles are shorter and wider. These are more appropriate for flatwater trips sitting in the bow of the canoe.
• Ottertail paddles have a longer, more narrow blade used for river and lake canoeing while seated in the stern.
• Square-tipped paddles are big and wide, capable of moving a lot of water. This type of paddle is necessary for white water canoeing.

I prefer an ottertail paddle when canoeing by myself.

Paddle Materials

Most people think of a canoe paddle as being made of wood (and many are). However, synthetic paddles are popular with some people because they are incredibly durable, and may be lighter weight.

Most people like the look and feel of more traditional wooden paddles (I’m one of them), but some avid white water paddlers opt for the strength that synthetic paddles provide.

Recommended Equipment for Canoeing Solo

Whether your solo voyage is for a few hours or several days, the right equipment can make your solo canoe trip more comfortable (and more safe).

The following is a list of items I recommend that you consider for your safety, organization, and comfort on a short day trip.

Overnight trips will require additional items and camping gear.

• Life jacket (mandatory)
• Map and compass
• Insect repellent
• Sunglasses with a float-strap
• Kneeling pad
• Waterproof bag to hold essentials
• Hat for sun protection
• Signal device
• Floating throw rope
• Additional rope for towing
• Drinking water
• Food / snacks

The Life Jacket I Use and Recommend

In most states, wearing a life jacket or PFD is the law when you’re out on the water.

If you’re like me, you want a safe, effective PFD that doesn’t limit your range of movement when paddling. That’s why I highly recommend this one from Onyx .  

It offers great range of motion, can keep me afloat in the water (I’m 6’2″), and it is very comfortable.

PeacefulPaddle.com is reader supported. If you make a purchase after clicking a link, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Where to Sit When Canoeing By Yourself

Solo canoe trips require slightly different positioning than tandem trips, and your paddling technique will be different as well.

On a tandem canoe trip, one person sits in the stern (back) and controls the canoe’s direction, paddling occasionally. The person in the bow (front) controls the canoe’s speed and supplies the power.

However, on a solo trip, you need to decide if you will sit, kneel, heel, or use a combination of positions.

I’ll discuss each of them here:

On a solo trip, one of your choices is to sit backward on the front seat of the canoe as I discussed earlier. You’ll paddle the canoe in reverse, which doesn’t make much of a difference for most canoes.

This position might seem awkward, but it prevents the nose of the canoe from sticking up, keeping your weight as close to the center of the canoe as possible.

Sitting is the most comfortable position for long trips on calm water, where steering your canoe is not a big issue.

When paddling solo in rough water, you may want to try something else.

Many solo canoeists prefer to kneel. The kneeling position lowers your center of gravity in the craft, and keeps your body in a more upright position. This extra height creates more powerful strokes with added control.

Kneeling is also the preferred position when canoeing alone in strong wind. It will put extra power behind your strokes.

When kneeling, you will undoubtedly need padding on the canoe floor. You should also consider rolling up a towel and placing it between your calves and your backside to take the pressure off your knee joints.

While the kneeling position has its place in solo canoeing, it is a difficult position to maintain long-term, even for those who are very fit. Many canoeists switch their positions regularly for purpose and comfort.

Heeling is one last position or technique more experienced solo canoeists use.

In this position, you are kneeling near the center of the canoe with your body off-set to your paddling side. This position makes the canoe tilt more, but your center of gravity is low and stable.

Once you get used to the balance being different, heeling gives your strokes more strength and reach. This position also gives you excellent maneuverability. It’s the most challenging solo position to learn, but once you do, it may become your favorite.

This is a great video which showcases the heeling position in some excerpts from Becky Mason’s Advanced Classic Solo Canoeing film:

Other Things to Consider before Canoeing Solo

Solo canoe trips can be extremely rewarding adventures.

However, solo trips are not recommended for novice paddlers and those inexperienced in camping and traveling in the wilderness.

This doesn’t mean you have to be an expert to go solo in a canoe, but you will need to gather all the information you can in advance, and you may want to pack a little extra safety equipment.

Understanding the style of canoe and paddle you will need and how to position yourself in the boat is a great start, but for your first canoe trips, go with a friend or family member until you get more comfortable. It’s always safer to travel with someone else.

If you are just getting started with canoeing, educate yourself by reading articles like this one, and watching videos for tips from experienced canoers.

Also, you might consider hiring an outfitter who can show you the best equipment for your needs and sell it to you.

When you feel comfortable and equipped, get out on the water and enjoy a solo canoe day trip , and eventually you can graduate to longer adventures in your canoe.

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• Nature Travel

8 U.S. Canoe Trips That'll Transport You Into the American Wild

Paddle through these waters for wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and more.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Editor’s Note: Travel might be complicated right now, but use our inspirational trip ideas to plan ahead for your next bucket list adventure.

You don’t have to strap on a giant backpack or hike 10 miles to get out into the wilderness — finding solitude can be as easy as loading up a canoe, pushing off, and dropping a line in the water. On a canoe trip, you need not worry about squeezing past others on a narrow trail or lugging around liters of water — everything you need is right in the boat with you.

These canoe trips take you from above the Alaskan Arctic Circle to the swamps of Georgia and are guaranteed to provide a much-needed reset (with a side of adventure). Plus, they’re all in the U.S., making it easy to find a nearby route that suits your style, whether it be braving rapids and overcoming grueling portages or sitting back with a line in the water and a beer in your hand.

1. Salmon River, Idaho

Also known as The River of No Return, the Salmon River takes boaters through 46 miles of recreational river trail, before reaching the 79-mile section of designated “wild” river. Canoers looking to take on the full 46-mile recreational route can put in at North Fork and take out at Corn Creek — a journey with tall canyon walls and some of the oldest known rocks in the state — or apply for a permit to venture into the “wild” section of the Salmon River.

2. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota

For a paddle that’s just as beautiful as it is remote, it’s hard to top the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northeast Minnesota. The wilderness area, which is composed of 1,500 miles of canoe routes over 19,000 acres and 1,100 bodies of water, is accessible primarily by canoe. Here in the deep north, boaters are rewarded with scenery that’s still wild and unparalleled solitude.

3. Northern Forest Canoe Trail, New York to Maine

This 740-mile trail starts in New York and ends in Maine, passing through Vermont, Quebec, and New Hampshire along the way. While there’s nothing like the satisfaction that comes from completing the entire stretch, you can take your pick of the route’s 23 rivers and streams, 59 ponds and lakes, and 65 portages to create your own shortened itinerary — whether it be a day trip or a long weekend excursion .

4. Noatak River, Alaska

If true isolation is at the top of your list, it doesn’t get much more remote than the Noatak River . Located above the Arctic Circle, this river route passes through a glacial valley, alpine tundra, deep canyons, and open plains. As you float this easy to moderate river, you can drop in a line or keep an eye out for Alaskan wildlife , including grizzly bears, caribou, and sheep.

5. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Georgia

If the cooler weather up north doesn’t sound appealing, consider a trip to Georgia, home of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge . Heavily forested cypress swamps and “swamp prairies” offer two different takes on watery terrain that lure canoers looking for a multiday excursion in the South’s lush wilderness.

6. Green River, Utah

Utah’s Green River is a great choice if you’re a newbie to the canoeing world, or if you’ll be traveling with small children. The river is wide and mellow, with plenty of wildlife and scenery. You can drop in at Green River State Park and take out at Ruby Ranch two days later, or float all the way to the confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers.

7. Buffalo National River, Arkansas

The beautiful Buffalo River passes through the Ozark Mountains and traverses alongside giant bluffs as it runs through quiet pools and tumbling rapids on its way to the White River. Once you reach the confluence, make sure to dip a toe to feel the distinction between the typically cooler White River and the warmer Buffalo waters. This trip can be as short as an afternoon paddle or as long as a multiday journey on the Buffalo River’s 153 miles — either way, you’ll want to keep your fishing gear on hand for the river’s renowned smallmouth bass fishing.

8. Tuolumne River, California

Thrill seekers will find their match on the Tuolumne River , which runs through deep gorges and forests on its way from the high Sierra Nevadas to the Central Valley. Along the way, you’ll be treated to wildlife sightings and excellent trout fishing as you navigate your way around Class IV rapids. Although the Tuolumne put-in is near Yosemite, the 149-mile body of water doesn’t have too much boating traffic, thanks to regulations on the number of trips permitted to launch each day.

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5 Best Solo Canoes For Adventure Trips In 2024

October 13, 2022 9 min read

Updated on: January 14, 2024

Dedicated To Those That Want An Independent Paddle

Nothing beats getting outdoors and losing yourself out on the water. Some days you just need to do that solo as well to get the best health benefit . So let’s talk about solo canoes.

The best solo canoe means you can stretch out the paddle at your own pace. Go where you want without discussion with a co-pilot. And most importantly, find that blissful peace and tranquillity that is so important for mindfulness and wellbeing. Because after all, nothing is more therapeutic than being out on peaceful waters.

But what makes a solo canoe great? And how do you know which are the best to choose from? We are here to help. From a rundown of the best solo canoes on the market to extra gear you could add to make your experience better, we have got you covered.

Table of Contents

• What are Solo Canoes?

Our Top 3 Quick Picks – Best Solo Canoes

What to look for when buying a solo canoe – a buyer’s guide, old town discovery 119 solo sportsman canoe, wooden boat usa columbia canoe 12, dutui transparent canoe, esquif canoes echo, nova craft canoe trapper, additional gear for solo canoeing, top tips for canoeing alone, what are solo canoes.

First things first, we are going to answer the initial question you are probably asking – what are solo canoes? Aren’t they all just simply, canoes?

Just like kayaks (and to a certain extent stand-up paddle boards ), canoes can come in ‘tandem’ sizes as well as being designed for individual paddlers. Typically, solo canoes are under 15 feet in length. This allows them to be more maneuverable for a solo paddler to handle. In these designs, turning and maneuverability are prioritized over tracking.

Sleek, agile, and yet utterly traditional. This Old Town canoe ticks all the boxes in our opinion. There is plenty of space to store gear onboard for an epic adventure while also being lightweight enough to venture into the smallest of spaces.

Want to stand out from the crowd? This transparent canoe from DUTUI is the way to go.

You cannot beat traditional design. The Wooden Boat USA Columbia Canoe is by far one of the most eye-catching boats out there. It is a timeless classic that is smooth in the water and will last you a lifetime. 

Buying a solo canoe can be challenging if you do not know what to look for. A canoe is an extension of the paddler's body, so, therefore, is a highly personal choice. And do not go assuming a solo canoe is simply a scaled-down version of a tandem option. The weight balance and design are often carefully crafted to suit a single paddler.

Here are a few tips to help you on the way to owning and becoming a solo canoeist!

Intended Use

What are you hoping to do with your solo canoe? Are you planning on fishing , heading out for flat water camping trips , or perhaps the ocean is calling you? The intended use will affect the length and size needed in the canoe.

If you are hoping to take on choppier waters and whitewater conditions, perhaps you should be considering a sit-inside kayak instead of a canoe. Due to the open top, a canoe is best suited for calm, flat waters that will not be splashing up inside. 

Solo canoes can range between 10-16 feet in length. 

The shorter they are, the easier they are to turn and maneuver. Longer canoes are more desirable for long-distance paddling as you can build up more speed and they generally have better tracking.

If you are planning an expedition and need to carry lots of gear with you, a 14-foot solo canoe is a perfect length. 

Overall, there are 5 types of materials that are commonly used when building canoes:

The material affects performance, durability, weight, aesthetics, and price. So it is no small matter to consider! 

Traditionally, canoes are made out of wood and are handcrafted. They are long-lasting and look great, but they do come with a higher price tag. Composites, such as fiberglass and carbon, introduce the desirable lightweight factor that solo canoeists will be chasing. 

Other materials, like plastics and reinforced PVC, can be a good choice for those on a tighter budget. As technology has advanced, so has the performance and durability of these solo canoes.

Handling and Control

Paddling solo means you have total control over the canoe. This means you choose where you go and how fast you get there. Therefore, you need to ensure the canoe is easy to handle and control as a solo paddler. 

Handling and control are directly impacted by the size and hull design of the canoe. The shorter the canoe, the easier it is to handle and turn. 

Good solo control also comes from a good position within the canoe. As a solo paddler, you need the bench seat to be as central as possible for the most amount of control. You will need to alternate the side you paddle on to maintain a straight-line trajectory if you are only paddling with one paddle. 

Best Solo Canoes

Are you looking for the best solo canoe? We’ve done the research and compiled some quick-fire solo canoe reviews to help you find your next vessel!

This Old Town canoe is by far one of the best options available for solo paddlers that ticks all the boxes. It combines the simplicity of traditional design with agile, sleek handling found in a kayak. Being under 12 feet means it is nimble to navigate hard-to-reach spaces, but it can also still build up a good amount of speed when paddling. 

This thoughtful design allows you to keep fishing gear close to your hand while giving you maximum comfort. The hull is spacious, the seat is fully adjustable and comfortable, and you even have padded armrests to lean on. 

Where to buy:

Features & specs:.

• Length: 11 feet 9 inches 
• Weight: 57 lbs
• Weight capacity: 298 lbs

What we like:

• Excellent stability and tracking
• Super comfortable with adjustable kayak-style seat and padded armrests
• Loads of storage available both behind and in front of the seat

What we don't like:

• Nothing! This is an excellent solo canoe!

It is no wonder why we have chosen this canoe as our best overall solo canoe! The Old Town Discovery Solo Canoe is a fantastic piece of equipment for any water lover. It is also highly affordable when looking at purchasing a canoe.

A timeless classic. The Columbia Canoe 12 from Wooden Boat USA is a work of art! This canoe is handcrafted out of cedar wood and encapsulated in fiberglass resin to give you the best of the best results. With over 400 hours of work going into this canoe, it is no wonder why the price tag is so high!

The minimal rocker is paired with a cutting-shaped bow, making it plane across flat water like a dream. 

• Length: 12 feet
• Weight: 35 lbs
• Weight capacity: 375 lbs
• Beautiful craftsmanship and handmade
• Super traditional design
• One-of-a-kind type canoe
• High price tag

If the budget does not matter, then why not go for both style and function? Wooden Boat USA’s Columbia Canoe 12 really is something special.

Highly unique and extremely cool, the DUTUI Transparent Canoe is truly one of a kind! As the name suggests, this canoe is completely see-through so you can see what you are paddling over. We have to say, this would be an epic canoe to have when exploring the reefs around the Florida Keys or even further afield in the Tropics!

Even though the canoe is transparent, it is still durable and able to withstand adventures. The design is wide which gives great stability and an enormous carrying capacity (large enough that you could even take a passenger onboard). However, this does make it less maneuverable in choppy waters.

• Length: 10 feet 8 inches
• Weight: 46 lbs
• Weight capacity: 570 lbs
• Made from transparent polycarbonate material, so you can see what you’re paddling over
• Wide and spacious hull for maximum stability
• High weight capacity
• Difficult to manoeuver due to width and flat bottom

If you are keen to explore clear waters and see what you are paddling over, then there is no better canoe than the DUTUI Transparent Canoe!

With elegant curves and beautiful design, the Esquif Canoes Echo model brings a wonderfully modern take onto the water. This solo canoe is best suited for intermediate paddlers looking for a touring vessel. It has been specially crafted to cut through waters with speed and precision. 

This canoe can take you through tranquil and still waters one day and down class II rivers the next. It is a fantastic canoe to consider.

• Length: 14 feet
• Weight: 45 lbs
• Weight capacity: 400 lbs +
• Super stylish and fresh paint color
• Shallow arch shape and moderate rocker for seamless gliding through the water
• Good speed and tracking
• Fairly narrow, so best for intermediate paddlers (not beginners)

If you have the skill and technique down, why not consider this beautiful piece of craftsmanship? You can switch between seated and kneeling positions comfortably throughout your session as well.

Nova Craft’s Canoe Trapper certainly looks the part! This traditional recreational canoe is ideal for solo paddling. When ordering this canoe, you have several options on material and color, meaning you can get a truly unique vessel to call your own!

This canoe is great for the modern canoeist that is after both primary and secondary stability with no compromise on speed. It is good for improving your “J” stroke and can also be used with a double-bladed paddle.

• Weight: 20.4 lbs
• Weight capacity: 
• Symmetrical hull
• Shallow arch bottom
• Slight rocker
• Nothing! This is a great canoe

From cruising to fishing, the Trapper from Nova Craft Canoes is suitable for it all! There is plenty of space for you to pack all the gear you need for an epic trip.

Once you have got your perfect solo canoe sorted, you can start thinking about all the other gear you need for your adventure. Of course, you need all the standard gear for canoeing. But you may want to add in some extra things you may not normally carry:

• ​​Duct tape
• Carabiner clips

Single or Double Blade Paddle

The choice of paddle type is personal and depends on what kind of paddling you want to do.

Single-blade paddles are often preferred for smaller and more precise movements. However, a double-bladed paddle offers good ergonomics in each stroke and you can get more speed. It is common to see solo canoes being propelled with double-blade paddles, especially for recreational paddling styles. 

Double blade paddles are a good option for smaller paddlers to keep up with, and even outrun, skilled single blade users. Beginners to canoeing can also easily keep a straight course with a double-blade paddle. 

Canoeing solo is a wonderful experience. However, there are safety concerns that are deemed higher risk when being out on the water alone. To combat these, we recommend following these top tips for safe solo canoe paddling!

• Wear a ditch kit (typically a dry bag secured across the body with a shoulder strap with essentials, ie. phone, and keys)
• Tether/anchor your canoe when getting yourself ready or taking a break
• Tell friends your float plan or paddle route
• Know when to walk with your canoe
• Always take a phone
• Remember to eat and take water

The best solo canoes are typically between 10 feet and 14 feet. This shorter length ensures the canoe is lightweight and easy to maneuver – this can however mean a compromise on speed. Longer boats generally go faster on the water.  

When looking to buy a solo canoe, you need to consider the dimensions of the boat as well as the material it is made from. Ideally, you want something that is lightweight and easy to manage by yourself, both in and out of the water. Before you start browning solo canoes, you need to determine what paddling style you will be getting into as this will affect the shape of the canoe hull.

Many people opt for a double-blade paddle to make solo canoe paddling easier. This means you can paddle both sides of the canoe without having to switch the paddle over, keeping straighter tracking and maintaining speed. You also need to consider where in the boat you are sitting/kneeling in order to keep an even weight distribution and balance in the canoe.

Surfer, paddle boarder, and ocean lover. She loves traveling and discovering new destinations all across the world. When she's not writing, she's exploring the outdoors and enjoying fresh air.

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Best Solo Canoes

There are more than a few people interested in solo canoes these days. And with interest, comes options. Fortunately, your loyal comrades have been submitting solo canoe reviews for longer than you've known they existed! So here are the short lists of the best solo canoes broken up by length.

• Best Solo Canoes Under 15ft
• Best Solo Canoes Over 14ft

To view all solo canoes, check out the full solo canoe buyers guide .

Best Solo Canoes Under 15 Feet

Solo canoes under 15 feet are going to be your more maneuverable of the bunch. If you prioritize turning over tracking, these are your length.

Best Solo Canoes Over 14 Feet

Solo canoes over 14 feet are going to be your canoe darts of choice. If you are running long, straight stretches and want tracking and speed, you've come to the right place.

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The 10 Best Canoe Trips in North America

Start planning your paddle through the most beautiful waters around the U.S. and Canada

By Ben Duchesney | Published Dec 26, 2019 8:00 PM EST

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Everyone should spend a week paddling in a canoe, if not every year, at least once in their life. There’s no better way to get to know someone than being stuck in the same boat for days on end, and it’s been the boat of choice for hunters and anglers for centuries. There are paddling routes all across the world, and many in your backyard. Some will challenge you as a paddler, while others can help you and your family relax.

After a few trips under your belt you may end up falling in love with canoe tripping. You’ll know it’s too late if you find that your belt has been replaced by an NRS cam strap.

This is not a definitive list. There are too many gorgeous places to paddle and not enough time, but these North American canoe trips are a good place to start.

The Elements of a Great Canoe Trip

A canoe trip is flexible. You can float lazily down a river, chatting with your friends or you can suffer through a hellish portage in the snow for days on end. It can be whatever you want. I will say that a grueling portage helps to make a trip memorable. The same goes for tricky weather, exciting rapids, and killer fishing conditions. Oh, and bugs.

Tandem paddling and tough portages can bring you closer or make you start whacking each other with your paddle. Make sure your paddling crew works well together. Carry an extra paddle in each boat in case you break or lose your main paddle, and make sure everyone wears a life jacket. Explain the route carefully before you start so everyone knows what to expect.

Always make sure to have a warm, dry change of clothes when you get into camp. No matter how gnarly it gets on the water, a toasty pair of socks waiting for you at the end of the day can help you get through it. A big bag of trail mix (the kind with M&Ms!) in each boat helps too.

If you’re worried about navigating your route, or just want some help on the water, hire a guide or outfitter.

1. Northern Forest Canoe Trail, New England

A group of friends and I paddled the first two sections of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail (NFCT) a few years back and I’ve been itching to go back to complete the rest. I’ve also paddled section 12, the famous Allagash River, in Maine. The beauty of the NFCT is that I can keep picking these trips off section by section, or choose to paddle all thirteen sections at once to cover the entire 740 mile route like an AT thru-hiker. The trail starts in Old Forge, NY and finishes in Fort Kent, Maine. The NFCT covers 23 rivers and streams, 59 lakes and ponds, and 65 portages (a little more than 70 miles) and is the longest inland water trail in the United States. This is as classic as canoe country paddling gets, with the trail following traditional Native American travel routes.

2. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota

More classic canoe country, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness has over 1,200 miles of paddling routes. At 1 million acres in size, you can spend a month in the backcountry of northeastern Minnesota and still barely scratch the surface. There are thousands of lakes and streams and you can spend your nights at one of over 2,000 designated campsites. Bring smores, you’ll want to watch the stars all night long.

3. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Georgia

A canoe can be just as at home down in the swamp as in the North Woods. Paddle through the black swamp waters of Georgia’s Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge to watch colorful birds and curious alligators. A photographer friend, Chris Funk, has been telling me to paddle the Okefenokee for years. “It’s a place that is so wild; man tried to tame it and failed,” he says. “The beauty of that place burns deep in the hearts of the folks that visit those black waters.”

4. Buffalo National River, Arkansas

The standout character of my time on the Buffalo National River in the beautiful Ozark region of Arkansas was the smallmouth bass. Even the smallest bass I caught that week were feisty as hell and brilliantly colored. There are many route options for paddlers looking for a multi-day float, with a total of 132 river miles beginning in the town of Ponca. Head there for the fishing, but make sure to enjoy the tall bluffs on this scenic river.

5. Green River, Utah

If north country whitewater or alligator swamps aren’t your speed, paddle one of the best flatwater routes in the country on the Green River in Utah. Start in the town of Green River Utah and paddle 120 miles to the confluence of the Colorado River. Most people can complete the trip in 3-5 days, but make sure to plan time to hike the surrounding country. The giant rock formations of Labyrinth and Stillwater Canyons will keep you awestruck.

6. Tuolumne River, California

Designated a Wild & Scenic river in 1984, California’s Tuolumne River starts in the High Sierra mountains and runs for 62 miles before it enters the Stanislaus National Forest. Besides the gorgeous views, like lush meadows between glacially carved canyons, there is also a chance for serious paddlers to test their skill. Starting From Lumsden Bridge to Wards Ferry a series of tricky rapids run one after another for 18 miles. If you’d rather run it than portage it, this may be the route for you.

7. Noatak River, Alaska

On a list of the best canoe trips in North America, of course you have to include one within the largest undisturbed watershed on the continent: the Noatak River in Alaska. You have almost 400 miles of river to plan your route on, but if you’re going to paddle the whole thing (why not, right?) a good place to put in is Kotzebue. There’s also the option to split it up and come back again year after year. It is after all a clear, arctic river with serious fishing and great wildlife, like bear, sheep, caribou, and musk ox.

8. Wabakimi Provincial Park, Ontario

With over 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) of some of the best wilderness canoeing routes in the world, Wabakimi Provincial Park must be explored over a lifetime. You just have to keep going back. There’s plenty of action for whitewater paddlers, chances to explore the park’s long cultural history of Indigenous communities, and of course the fishing. Fly-in lodges put their clients on giant walleye and northern pike, but spending a week (or more) there in a canoe means you’ll have first dibs at all the best spots.

9. Nahanni River, Northwest Territories

Spend two weeks in the backcountry of Canada’s Northwest Territories on the classic Nahanni River. This river features Virginia Falls, a waterfall nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls. It also takes paddlers through some of Canada’s deepest river canyons, leads them past hot springs and other unique geological features. This river is so legendary that the United Nations declared the Nahanni River first World Heritage Site in 1978.

10. The Bowron Lakes Circuit, British Columbia

Paddle along the western slopes of the Cariboo Mountain Range in Bowron Lake Provincial Park. The Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit is world-renowned among paddlers, connecting 116 kilometers (72 miles) of lakes, waterways, and portages through the wilderness. You can spend 10 days paddling the whole circuit, or just paddle 2 to 4 days on the west side of the circuit.

Remember, sometimes the portages between each lake are the best part, at least they are later when you’re talking about them to your coworkers back in the real world.

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15 Best Solo Canoes

There are certain waterways and lake regions where paddling a canoe is preferable to paddling one of the best day touring kayaks . If you don’t have a reliable paddle partner, however, you will need to find one of the best solo canoes.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options to choose from and some of the best canoe brands out there make solo models. Today, we are going to review 15 of the best options out there to help you narrow down your choices.

Keep in mind that paddling a canoe is much different than paddling a kayak . For one, it really isn’t efficient to use a kayak paddle to propel a canoe (although some canoe models are specifically built for that!).

Secondly, self-rescue , when you are paddling a canoe, requires very different skills and accessories than what you would need for a sit-on-top kayak . So you may consider joining a canoeing 101 class or signing up for private lessons before making the transition from kayaking to canoeing.

That being said, we want to highlight the 15 best solo canoes we trust. Plus, we will cover some basic buying criteria that you can employ to choose the right solo canoe for your specific needs!

Photo by Evan Austen via Shutterstock

Best Solo Canoes

Canoe weight, seat position and design, weight capacity, 1. old town discovery 119 solo, 2. grumman g-129 solo canoe, 3. old town next solo canoe, 4. wenonah down river argosy solo canoe, 5. nova craft trapper solo canoe, 6. nova craft fox solo canoe, 7. nova craft supernova solo canoe, 8. merrimack canoe company baboosic solo canoe, 9. hemlock canoe works nessmuk solo canoe, 10. hemlock canoe works falcon series kestrel solo canoe, 11. esquif canoes adirondack solo canoe, 12. esquif canoes echo solo canoe, 13. placid boatworks spitfire solo canoe, 14. placid boatworks shadow solo canoe, 15. l.l. bean royal river solo canoe, our pick – old town next solo canoe, share on pinterest.

• Old Town Discovery 119 Solo Canoe
• Grumman G-129 Solo Canoe
• Old Town NEXT Solo Canoe
• Wenonah Down River Argosy Solo Canoe
• Nova Craft Trapper Solo Canoe
• Nova Craft Fox Solo Canoe
• Nova Craft Supernova Solo Canoe
• Merrimack Canoe Company Baboosic Solo Canoe
• Hemlock Canoe Works Nessmuk Solo Canoe
• Hemlock Canoe Work Falcon Series Kestrel Solo Canoe
• Esquif Canoes Adirondack Solo Canoe
• Esquif Canoes Echo Solo Canoe
• Placid Boatworks SpitFire Solo Canoe
• Placid Boatworks Shadow Solo Canoe
• L.L. Bean Royal River Solo Canoe

Solo Canoe Buying Guide

Photo by Joel Blit via Shutterstock

Canoe designs are obviously very different from kayak designs , which means you will need to look closely at different features during the buying process. Here are a few important criteria to consider when you are shopping for one of the best solo canoes:

Your two-person canoe can be heavier because you will have a second person to help you carry it. When you are interested in a solo canoe, you will need to be comfortable carrying all of that weight on your own.

Also, keep in mind that you will probably load anywhere from 25 to 50 pounds of paddling gear into your canoe for most trips. So you will need to add that to a canoe’s dry weight to determine whether or not you will be confident transporting that much weight.

Your canoe’s weight will come into play in a variety of situations. That includes loading and unloading it onto a trailer or the top of your vehicle , portaging it between waterways , or even just getting it from the parking lot to the edge of the water.

If you are completely uncomfortable with a canoe’s weight, but you love all of the rest of its features, you aren’t out of luck. You can also build your own PVC rolling cart to make transporting your kayak over short distances a whole lot easier.

Also Read : Tandem Kayak vs Canoe

Many of these solo canoes boast more traditional nylon-webbed seats that are mounted about halfway between the top of the center gunwales and the bottom of the cockpit.

This seat position will require you to maintain an upright body position on your own and use a traditional canoe paddle.

Some designers, however, have taken a more versatile approach to create a canoe that can be propelled with either a single-bladed or double-bladed paddle. These designs usually boast some type of aluminum-framed seat that sits slightly higher inside the canoe.

This seat is similar to what you will find on the best river fishing kayaks and will be more comfortable because you are able to recline slightly into the seatback.

This design, however, is really best for experienced canoe paddlers because it can make the canoe slightly less stable (due to the higher center of gravity when seated at an elevated position).

If you are simply looking for a canoe for casual day paddles, most of these models will handle the weight of you and your gear without fail. For those of you that are interested in using a canoe for multi-day river expeditions, however, will need to pay closer attention to weight capacity.

Combine your body weight with the estimated weight of all the paddling/camping gear, food, and water you will load into your canoe for your trip.

That weight should not exceed roughly 80% of the canoe’s advertised weight capacity if you want your canoe to perform up to its capabilities and keep you safe on your journey.

Solo Canoe Reviews

• Length: 11’9”
• Beam: 32.5”
• Weight: 49 pounds
• Weight Capacity: 500 pounds

The Discovery 119 Solo canoe is built by the fine folks at Old Town Canoes and Kayaks. It is one of the most affordable and durable solo canoes out there because it boasts a triple-layered polyethylene hull.

It is ideal for beginner and intermediate canoe enthusiasts and is best suited for casual day trips and short-distance explorations. The nylon webbed seat at the center of the canoe is breathable for hot days and also resistant to UV degradation.

The length and width of this canoe make it reasonably efficient when paddling straight, but also agile enough to handle narrower creeks and streams. It is also reasonably stable as you are getting used to paddling a canoe.

While this canoe model is best suited to be paddled with a traditional, single-bladed canoe paddle, the seat sits high enough to allow you to use a double-sided kayak paddle as well.

PC Canoeing.com

• Length: 12’9”
• Beam: 29.5”
• Weight: 48 pounds
• Weight Capacity: 585 pounds

The Grumman G-129 is a pack-style canoe that is slightly longer and skinnier than the previous two options. This narrower design makes it more efficient for long-distance expeditions and also provides more interior storage space for your camping equipment.

The seat is set down into the cockpit of the canoe, but it remains high enough to make paddling it with a double-sided kayak paddle a possibility. It is a traditional-style canoe seat without a back or the ability to be adjusted.

The G-129 also boasts a low-profile design that minimizes wind resistance to help you exert less effort to cover long distances. It also features a standard canoe keel and two ribs that provide plenty of lateral support.

PC Old Town Canoe and Kayak

• Length: 13’
• Weight: 59 pounds
• Weight Capacity: 450 pounds

The Old Town NEXT canoe is the closest thing to a canoe-kayak hybrid that you will see on our list. It boasts the same type of aluminum-framed mesh seat that you will find on many of the best sit-on-top fishing kayaks .

In fact, this canoe features a flat bottom and a low profile that allows you to paddle it with a single-bladed or double-bladed paddle. It also features an adjustable support-track foot brace system that helps you maintain a more ergonomic and efficient paddling position.

The NEXT canoe is made with a triple-layered hull that provides excellent durability. From bow to stern, you will enjoy the subtle amount of rocker in the hull for more efficient straight-line paddling.

PC Wenonah Canoe

• Length: 14’6”
• Beam: 30.25”
• Weight: 46 pounds

The Wenonah Down River Argosy canoe is designed for river and stream paddling. It can handle wide, slow-moving rivers, but it also handles reasonably well on narrower creeks with small rapids.

The keel boasts an added rocker that helps you make quick maneuvers and it is stable enough for you to lean confidently in one direction to make tighter turns. Overall, however, this canoe is designed for intermediate and experienced paddlers.

The Argosy Down River Canoe is reasonably lightweight and offers the kind of volume you need to handle turbulent waters. There are also lighter versions of the Wenonah Argosy canoe that weigh 43 and 30 pounds, respectively.

PC Nova Craft Canoe

• Length: 12’
• Weight: 45 pounds
• Weight Capacity: 490 pounds

The Trapper Canoe from Nova Craft boasts excellent primary and secondary stability, which makes it a very versatile option. It can handle the demands of canoe fishing and also maintain stability in rough waters.

When you do need to cover some ground, however, this canoe moves very efficiently over the water and you will also have plenty of storage space for overnight gear if you are looking for a canoe for multi-day river trips.

The original version of the Trapper is light enough for trips that require short portages, but there are lighter versions (as low as 30 pounds) available as well. This is also a great canoe for beginners because it is forgiving when you are working on perfecting skills like the forward sweep stroke .

• Length: 14’
• Weight: 50 pounds
• Weight Capacity: 550 pounds

Nova Craft’s Fox solo canoe is best for flat water on lakes and slow-moving rivers. It features a symmetrical hull with a shallow arch bottom and a slight tumblehome that makes it easier to paddle without knocking your knuckles against the gunwales.

The minimal rocker from bow to stern also keeps it quite nimble when you need to make quick maneuvers. Experienced paddlers will love the secondary stability of the hull if you want to lean over and paddle “Canadian-style”.

The Fox canoe’s original version isn’t quite as lightweight as some of the other models above, but you will have several different construction options to choose from. The lightest option (Aramid Lite) weighs just 34 pounds.

• Length: 14’10”
• Weight: 47 pounds
• Weight Capacity: 850 pounds

The Nova Craft Supernova is an expedition-grade solo canoe made for the serious and experienced paddler. It boasts a substantial weight capacity that also makes it a great selection for larger paddlers.

The canoe features a more moderate rocker that provides more responsiveness in gentle whitewater. It has the maneuverability and stability to handle that long-distance whitewater river trip that you have always dreamed about completing!

The Supernova also features a symmetrical hull and shallow arch bottom that makes it efficient for those stretches of slow-moving water between rapids. So while it is best for experienced and skilled paddlers, it can also be fun for the family on casual lake days.

PC Merrimack Canoe Company

• Beam: 29.75”
• Weight: 40 pounds

The Baboosic canoe from Merrimack Canoe Company is built for everything from backcountry canoe camping trips to freestyle canoe endeavors. It is built for speed over long distances but also remains exceedingly agile when you need to make quick maneuvers.

There are several construction options you can choose from that utilize either lightweight fiberglass or a combination of kevlar and carbon fiber. All options are reinforced with ribs made with cherry hardwood that also give the interior of this canoe a unique appearance.

The Baboosic canoe is completed with a gel-coat outer finish to provide UV protection and a glossy appearance. You can also choose a custom floor print or engraved deck plate to get a canoe that is truly going to be one-of-a-kind.

PC Hemlock Canoe Works

• Length: 10’6”
• Weight: 16 pounds
• Weight Capacity: 225 pounds

The Hemlock Canoe Works Nessmuk canoe is the lightest option on our list, which makes it best for folks that are going to embark on trips that require long portages. It can also be a great option for smaller paddlers that don’t want to lug a heavy canoe around.

The Nessmuk is also really easy to paddle and extremely seaworthy. It is modeled after a replica of the canoe that was built for George Washington Sears in preparation for his Adirondack cruise in the summer of 1880.

It is easily the most transportable canoe on our list and can be paddled from either a seated or a kneeling position. It should also be noted that, while the advertised capacity is 225 pounds, the more efficient capacity is between 125 and 175 pounds.

• Length: 14’9”
• Beam: 27.5”
• Weight: 32 pounds
• Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

The Falcon Series Kestrel canoe is still super lightweight but provides quite a bit of extra length, storage space, and carrying capacity. It is made for solo touring on backcountry lakes and is light enough to be carried between waterways in places like Voyageurs National Park.

This canoe is designed to be super-efficient for long-distance paddling, but it also provides plenty of stability and agility. Because of the narrow design, however, the Kestrel is best for intermediate and experienced paddlers.

If you are loving the design of the Kestrel, you should also take a look at the Peregrine canoe, which is the other half of the Falcon Series. It is slightly longer and boasts additional carrying capacity.

PC Esquif Canoes

• Beam: 31.5”
• Weight: 42 pounds
• Weight Capacity: 400 pounds

The Adirondack model from Esquif Canoes is made with T-formex material that makes it highly durable while maintaining its lightweight properties. The nylon-webbed seat is mounted at a convenient height that makes it possible to paddle with a single or double-bladed paddle.

This canoe is stable enough to handle flat water lakes and slow-moving rivers, as well as your weight shifts if you are interested in canoe fishing. The position of the yoke behind the seat gives you a great location for adding a fishing rod holder.

The Adirondack also offers plenty of storage space for an overnight adventure. Or, you can utilize that space to bring your dog out on the water with you!

• Beam: 29.625” to 31.875”

The Echo model from Esquif is designed for long-distance canoe expeditions and it also has the kind of carrying capacity that will instill more confidence in larger paddlers. In spite of its longer design, it remains quite nimble and easy to maneuver in moving water.

It is equally at home on flat water lakes and rivers with up to class II whitewater. It also provides great tracking ability for multi-night adventures and excellent secondary stability for more technical paddling maneuvers.

The Esquif Echo canoe is also made with durable and lightweight T-formex material with a nylon-webbed seat and a shallow arch bottom.

PC Placid Boatworks

• Weight: 18 to 21 pounds
• Weight Capacity: Check Placid Boatworks’ Note On Carrying Capacities

The SpitFire canoe is another excellent lightweight option for smaller paddlers and trips that involve long portages. It boasts an incredibly comfortable seat with adjustable back and foot pedals for more ergonomic paddling.

It is designed to help smaller paddlers utilize a double-sided kayak paddle to keep up with more experienced, single-blade paddlers. That said, it also provides efficient tracking and excellent agility for folks making the transition from kayaking to canoeing.

• Length: 16’
• Weight: 22.5 to 25.5 pounds
• Weight Capacity: Check Placid Boatworks’ Note on Carrying Capacities

The Shadow solo canoe made by Placid Boatworks has the same useful crossover features as the SpitFire, but its extra length makes it a great option if you want something that can help you grow into long-distance or multi-day canoe trips.

This canoe is also a great fitness canoe for intermediate paddlers looking to increase their paddling stamina. It handles well in all types of water conditions and will help you train for your next canoe expedition.

PC L.L. Bean

The L.L. Bean Royal River solo canoe offers a more comfortable seat than some models, but that adjustable seat can also be removed if you want to utilize the more traditional nylon-webbed seat underneath it.

This canoe is super versatile and can handle casual paddles, canoe fishing, and even multi-day camping expeditions. The material used in the construction of this canoe is called T-formex, which is a lightweight and durable ABS plastic laminate that is used on many of the best solo canoes.

The material is abrasion-resistant and helps to keep the canoe’s overall weight to a minimum. There is plenty of room inside for all of your camping and paddling gear and the canoe is light enough to be carried over short portages.

The Old Town NEXT Solo Canoe is our pick for the best solo canoe on the market today because of its versatility. As Old Town rightfully claims, this canoe “represents the future of paddling.”

Because it can be paddled with a traditional canoe paddle or one of the best kayak paddles , it is a great option for kayakers making the transition to a canoe. The fact that the seat is removable further lends to the transition and makes it a better option for paddlers that need exercise .

The NEXT canoe is built to handle everything from casual day trips to weekend camping excursions. It is also a relatively affordable option when compared to some of the other models out there!

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Peter Salisbury

Pete is the Owner of KayakHelp.com. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, he grew up kayaking, fishing, sailing, and partaking in outdoor adventures around the Great Lakes. When he’s not out on the water, you can find him skiing in the mountains, reading his favorite books, and spending time with his family.

Best Solo Canoes to Satiate Your Adventurous Souls…!

Published by thomas godwin on january 9, 2023 january 9, 2023.

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Speaking of the best solo canoes, these things have been around since at least 8,000 B.C. The first known canoe is now known as the pesse canoe.

It wasn’t a solo canoe, but it’s fascinating to know that your canoe(s) are of ancient origin and the design methodology hasn’t changed much at all.

There are several different types of solo canoes, including expedition, touring, beginner canoes, fishing, racing, and more. But, not all solo canoes are created equal, and some just stand out in a crowded marketplace.

As far as solo canoe reviews go, I like to make a lot of comparisons to kayaks. The reason is that these two are about as closely related as they come. I’ve been on both many a time, and it’s hard not to compare solo kayaks and solo canoes.

Old Town Discovery

• MATERIAL:   POLYETHYLENE
• ITEM WEIGHT:   56 POUNDS

Super Versatility

Esquif Adirondack

• MATERIAL: T-Formex
• ITEM WEIGHT:   39 POUNDS

Classic Design

Esquif Prospecteur

• ITEM WEIGHT:   65 POUNDS

Great Portability

Sea Eagle TC16

• MATERIAL: Wood
• ITEM WEIGHT:   60 POUNDS

Incredible Responsiveness

• MATERIAL: basalt,Innegra fiber
• ITEM WEIGHT:   85 POUNDS

Ultra Lightweight

Grumman 12′ 9″ Solo

• MATERIAL: Aluminum
• ITEM WEIGHT:   48 POUNDS

Awesome Durability

Buffalo Canoes

• ITEM WEIGHT:   76 POUNDS

Premium Choice

Stellar Kayaks

• MATERIAL: Kevlar, Nomex, Twaron
• ITEM WEIGHT:   24 POUNDS

8 Best Solo Canoes

Solo canoes are tough, as are most canoes. But, they’re also pretty heavy, especially for a single individual to haul around.

These things aren’t like kayaks, where even a tandem kayak is manageable with some decent handles. Fortunately, “tough” also means you’re safe on the water, as these solo canoes can take a beating.

1. Old Town Discovery 119

You might mistake the Old Town Discovery for a kayak, at least until you’re standing right over it for a closer inspection. At 11′ 9″, it’s not an extremely long solo canoe, which is good for those who appreciate a lighter-weight model and the maneuverability it offers.

Solo canoeing in Discovery 119 is surprisingly easy. It has solid speed and tracking capability. It’s slightly unstable, but only if you’re trying to stand up in it. Though Discovery 119s are often used as fishing boats, they lack the pontoon bottom that makes a stable fishing kayak .

Since it’s a canoe, it has a more canoe-like bottom. Imagine that. Still, it’s sufficiently stable on the water, whether you’re fishing for alligator gar or just enjoying a cool evening on the water.

The Old Town Discovery 119 is similar in size to a recreational or fishing kayak, but there are still plenty of storage areas to hold all of your gear.

If you’re looking for a solo canoe that offers a little bit of everything, especially for a beginner or moderately experienced canoeist, the Discovery 119 is a perfect match. The deeply recessed seat is comfortable and very kayak-like. You could get away with labeling these Old Town canoes as “hybrid.”

Versatile is a good, one-word description for the Discovery 119, which makes it one of the best solo canoes on our list and on the market as well. For solo paddling, you can use a single or double-bladed paddle. It also makes for a great tripping canoe both for short and long-term outings.

• Great speed and tracking
• Smooth hull allows for maximum exploration
• Extra room for gear and possibly a dog
• Smooth weight shifting
• Three-layer polyethylene construction
• Rough to tote in the wind due to its lightweight

Old Town Discovery 119

The Price of “Old Town Discovery 119” varies, so check the latest price at

2. Esquif Adirondack Canoe

If you can say that five times fast (I failed immediately), you should get a free Esquif Adirondack Canoe. However, you don’t have to pronounce it to know this is an outstanding solo canoe.

Like the Discovery 119, this solo canoe screams versatility. Tracking and speed are both excellent and, since it’s a lightweight class canoe, you can haul it around a little easier, without breaking your back.

The Esquig Adirondack (wow, that’s hard to type too) is manufactured with an extremely durable T-Formex material. It’s fantastic in the shallows, shrugging off rocks like they’re Squishmallows.

This is a higher-end canoe that features web seating and is entirely constructed of sustainable materials. Part of being the best solo canoe means everything you can expect from a premium canoe, including high-end features, without it being detrimental to the environment.

• Lightweight and easy to carry
• T-Formex material is very durable and long-lasting
• Excellent tracking and speed
• Highly versatile
• 400 lb weight capacity
• Light weight makes it tough to handle in the wind

Esquif Adirondack Canoe

The Price of “Esquif Adirondack Canoe” varies, so check the latest price at

3. Esquif Prospecteur 16 Canoe

One of the best solo canoes for day-tripping, the Esquif Prospeceur 16 Canoe is your everyday machine. Built with T-Formex material, just like its Adirondack cousin, the Prospecteur is a beast on the water that’s capable of taking on rapids as well.

This Esquif comes with a contoured ash yoke (that just sounds awesome even as I type it), webbed seats, vinyl trim, and weighs 65 lbs. It’s a little harder to get this bad boy on the top of an SUV, so a small trailer should be in the cards for you somewhere down the line.

Though it’s a solo canoe, you can also opt for the tandem version, which is just like the original, only bigger in every way. This is as classic a design as you can find on the market today. The rounded chine makes for a smooth ride over the water.

While you’re not going to break any speed records in this solo canoe, it tracks very well and is just as agile in a river as it is in a lake. The arched bottom will keep you from going extremely shallow, but the boat sits well in the water, allowing you to go almost anywhere with ease.

The excellent secondary stability makes up for lacking in the primary stability department. But, since many solo canoers take these into whitewater, that’s not such a bad thing. Storage space is excellent as well, with plenty of room for all the gear you need.

• Very smooth and comfortable (gliding feel) ride
• Highly durable T-Formex material with vinyl or wood lining
• Modeled after ancient Native American styles with today’s technology
• Excellent tracking
• Good for flatwater up to moderate rapids
• High freeboard is prone to windage

Esquif Prospecteur 16 Canoe

The Price of “Esquif Prospecteur 16 Canoe” varies, so check the latest price at

4. Sea Eagle TC16

Don’t let the first inflatable solo canoe on my list lead you to believe it’s not the “best solo canoe” material. Part of what makes this one of the best solo canoes is its versatility, durability, and portability. That’s a lot of “ilities” but the Sea Eagle TC16 stands up with the best of them.

It takes seven minutes to inflate the TC16 and that’s not bad at all because it weighs 60 lbs. Despite the lack of a skeg, it tracks well on the water, surprisingly so. That’s all thanks to the well-designed rocker (probably a moderate rocker by most standards), which also translates into quick acceleration and decent speed.

Another thing that makes this solo canoe the best solo canoe is its incredible versatility. You can drag this thing out onto a Class IV rapid or take it out on a pond and get the same amount of enjoyment (if not adrenaline).

It’s insanely durable with an “all-drop-stitch” design that is patented by Sea Eagle. The unique double chine offers fantastic stability and excellent tracking in the water. This isn’t a lazy solo canoe—but a river runner or a touring canoe that can briefly pretend to be a lazy solo canoe.

• Very durable All-Drop-Stitch design
• Double chines
• Packs small and tight for easy transport
• Inflates in seven minutes
• Incredible versatility
• Seats are velcro and wear out quickly

The Price of “Sea Eagle TC16” varies, so check the latest price at

5. Nova Craft Prospector 15

Nova Craft’s scaled-down version of its Prospector series is why the Prospector 15 makes it to the best solo canoes list. That’s because the Prospector series is fantastic, and Nova Craft sacrificed nothing on the way to manufacturing a solo canoe.

Part of the joy of writing solo canoe reviews is touching on canoes like this. There’s a lot here to make a solo paddler happy, including incredible responsiveness and tracking, with plenty of speed to boot.

Nova Craft calls this solo canoe its “play boat” and it certainly fits the bill. The Prospector 15 comes in fiberglass, TuffStuff, Blue Steel, and TuffStuff Expedition models, all of which are more than durable on the water.

The shallow arch bottom and moderate rocker help the canoe glide over the water with excellent control.

Depending on which model you choose, the Prospector 15 comes with a shoe keel, but even if your material choice doesn’t support it, you aren’t missing out on much. The weights are variable—again, depending on the material—but none are considered overly heavy.

The Prospector 15 deserves to be on the best solo canoes list because it’s a fantastic canoe that’s just big enough to use as a tandem canoe if you would prefer. Nova Craft did a great job scaling this down, retaining the best of their premium lines without any sacrifices.

• Highly responsive solo canoe
• Multiple composite materials
• Handles Class I and Class II rapids
• Great speed
• None of the models are extremely heavy
• Gel coat scratches up pretty easily

Nova Craft Prospector 15

The Price of “Nova Craft Prospector 15” varies, so check the latest price at

6. Grumman 12′ 9″ Solo

Also called the Grumman 129 Solo or the G-129 Solo, the Grumman is the perfect addition to the best solo canoes list. While it only comes in aluminum material, there are a wide variety of colors to choose from.

Speaking of aluminum, the weight of this canoe is one of the lowest on our solo canoe list at 42 lbs. Despite that, it has a carrying capacity of 545 lbs. The age-hardened aluminum alloy is incredibly durable and has a low center of gravity.

Thanks to its lightweight, it’s incredibly maneuverable on the water, including rough water. It’s also easy to carry down to the lake or the river, so long as the wind isn’t kicking up too badly.

The Grumman offers plenty of stability and has a large enough space that bringing a pet along isn’t a problem. Whether you prefer a single-blade paddle or a double-bladed paddle, either one works great. However, if you are a taller person, the low profile might make rowing more of an effort.

Grumman did a fantastic job with this little solo canoe. Its sleek design is seemingly contoured to your body without sacrificing stability. It’s a bit of a deeper canoe, but you can tackle it with several paddling styles as long as you aren’t tall.

• Sleek, lightweight design is perfect for beginners
• Holds up to 545 lbs
• Extremely durable
• Multiple color choices
• Harder to row for taller folks

The Price of “Grumman 12′ 9″ Solo” varies, so check the latest price at

7. Buffalo Canoes

The best solo canoes have something to offer that others don’t or, at least something better than competing solo canoes. Buffalo combined T-Formex material with Royalex composite and expert craftsmanship to develop one of the most durable solo canoes on the market.

Buffalo labels their Buffalo Solo Canoes as a river running, touring, and whitewater. The hull features a shallow arch with vinyl trim along the gunwales. It’s not a deeper solo canoe but it cuts through the water well, with excellent tracking.

The Buffalo line of solo canoes is great for both beginner and intermediate paddlers and the Buffalo Canoe is one of the best solo canoes on the market, thanks to its incredible durability. On the outside, it’s a traditional style canoe but it performs for recreational paddling up to Class II rapids.

Solo canoeists will appreciate the smooth glide and excellent tracking features, though it’s certainly not the fastest of the solo canoes on the list. Still, it has plenty of speed and is a good choice for long-distance paddling.

If you love to paddle solo, Buffalo Canoes are worth checking out, especially if you want something you can hold onto for decades. These things are rigid, very sturdy, built for long distances, and one of the best solo canoes for long-term planners out there.

• T-Formex and Royalex Composite with high durability
• Great canoe for recreation to Class II rapids
• Shallow arch hull design for smooth glide and tracking
• Greater storage capacity
• Moderately maneuverable
• Drop seats aren’t great for larger paddlers

The Price of “Buffalo Canoes” varies, so check the latest price at

8. Stellar Kayaks Dragonfly

Stellar manufactures some of the best solo canoes on the planet but they command a higher price tag. But, good solo canoe reviews can’t leave out the fact that some solo canoes are just pricey. It is what it is!

If you can shell out the cash for this excellent pack canoe, it’s well worth the money. Stellar managed to create the lightest of the solo canoes on this list without compromising on durability. Their honeycomb core is encased on fiberglass laminate and has a gel coat finish.

As pack canoes go, it’s hard to nominate the Stellar Dragonfly for anything other than “best solo.” It packs easily and is readily portable. You can even mount it on a kayak carrier for car racks . These solo canoes come with a 400 lb capacity and are only 11′ 6″ in length.

On the water, you wouldn’t know the difference between the Stellar Dragonfly and other solo canoes. It has excellent tracking and great maneuverability. It’s the best solo for fishing, laying back, and just enjoying an evening on the water, though it can get up and go if need be.

The Stellar Dragonfly works great for both short distances and long distances. Its lightweight and highly durable design will delight beginner and experienced canoeists alike. This canoe offers a lot in a small package and is one of the better solo canoes for a laid-back day on the lake.

• Paddling solo is a breeze with the Dragonfly’s lightweight
• Includes bow and stern handles for easy carrying
• It’s the right solo canoe for travelers
• Honeycomb and Fiberglass hull is highly resilient
• Great option for carrying capacity
• Suffers in heavy wind

Stellar Kayaks Dragonfly

The PStellar Kayaks Dragonfly” varies, so check the latest price at

Buying Guide for Best Solo Canoes

If you’re looking for the best solo canoes on the market, there are some factors you want to focus on. If you’re used to kayaking, canoeing is a bit different and has its own features worth considering.

Canoes longer than 15′ are tripping canoes while shorter canoes trend toward recreation. Length doesn’t make or break the best solo canoes because it’s all about what you want to do.

Like a kayak, more width equals more stability, while narrower canoes are better suited for whitewater. Wider canoes create more drag, slowing them down, but are great for standing. Narrower and longer boats are ideal for long-distance trips.

Think about it in terms of speed. Lower rockers equal more speed while banana-shaped canoes turn you into a maneuvering machine. The best solo canoes often fall somewhere in between.

Composite, fiberglass, and carbon are the lightest canoes but command the highest price points. Thermoformed and rotomolded plastics are cheaper but heavier. That’s why pack canoes are often highly-priced.

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity is entirely preference-related. It’s all about what you want your canoe to carry. If you want the option to have a ton of gear or perhaps switch to tandem, look for higher-weight capacities.

What Is a 1-person Canoe Called?

A 1-person canoe is most often referred to as a solo canoe.

What Is the Difference Between Solo Canoe and Kayak?

A solo canoe is typically longer than a kayak and heavier, while kayaks have more variety in the captain’s seat. Canoes offer more long-term comfort and are more stable (in general), while kayaks are faster.

Final Thoughts

Solo canoes are seemingly designed for the introvert in all of us. However, they are also very versatile, with some long enough to support an extra partner or a dog. The 8 solo canoes make up a perfect representation of the solo canoe market.

One of the best ways to see nature fully while also having an exhilarating adventure is through canoeing. If you are interested to read more about the best expedition canoe you can check out our article with a comprehensive review.

They all offer something for the experienced paddler down to the beginner. Best of all, the above-listed canoes are highly durable. If you’re willing to go the extra mile and grab one, you’ll have an outstanding canoe for life.

Thomas Godwin

Thomas Godwin is a full-time freelance writer with a BFA in Creative Writing. Thomas served as a U.S. Marine and is an avid outdoorsman, especially on the hiking trails and disc golf courses. In 2017, he walked away from a lucrative position as a Journeyman Painter 1st Class to become a full-time freelance writer and he refuses to look back. When he’s not writing, he’s raising chickens and Appleyard ducks, parasailing the Gulf Coast of Florida, and mountain biking. Thomas also constructs teardrop campers (attempts to anyway) and kayaks the Blackwater River with his wife, two daughters, and his Dobermans.

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KarlBAndersen1: "I have tripped/used other canoes, and have owned and used my own Dagger Sojourn, as well as built and tripped with my own cedar strip. I just got my first Wenonah Wilderness this spring and did a solo on 13 June. This Wilderness is - by far - my favorite of them all. Stable. Not too heavy in the Tuff-weave lay up. It does everything I want a tripping canoe to do. "

billconner: " Easy for me - SR Tranquility. "

HowardSprague: "Interesting. Wonder why that setup - maybe easier to accommodate loading, or maybe so there’d be a permanently-placed yoke?"

bwcasolo: " my prism is my buddy. i have since this photo, moved the seat back to center and made a removable yoke. this was first trip after sawbill purchase. they order them this way. did not care for the set-up."

gkimball: " KarlBAndersen1: "I have tripped/used other canoes, and have owned and used my own Dagger Sojourn, as well as built and tripped with my own cedar strip. I just got my first Wenonah Wilderness this spring and did a solo on 13 June. This Wilderness is - by far - my favorite of them all. Stable. Not too heavy in the Tuff-weave lay up. It does everything I want a tripping canoe to do. "

ghamer: "Northstar Northwind Solo here. I love it, but have not tried anything else to compare it to :-) "

cowdoc: "Solo canoes are very personal items. It's what fits you best and what you feel most comfy in......which may not be the "best" for anyone else. I'd love to try...or own...a number of other solo canoes, but for now, I only have two, and I dearly like both of them. So many others I'd like to try........"

paddlinjoe: " gkimball: " KarlBAndersen1: "I have tripped/used other canoes, and have owned and used my own Dagger Sojourn, as well as built and tripped with my own cedar strip. I just got my first Wenonah Wilderness this spring and did a solo on 13 June. This Wilderness is - by far - my favorite of them all. Stable. Not too heavy in the Tuff-weave lay up. It does everything I want a tripping canoe to do. "

yellowcanoe: "Your best is what you chose now. I hope that is true.. But Ozark Paddler we will look out for you.. I am glad you are resurrected into the tripping community you bionic guy.. Everyone look for a MR Courier they are deep boats.. "

gkimball: " paddlinjoe: " gkimball: " KarlBAndersen1: "I have tripped/used other canoes, and have owned and used my own Dagger Sojourn, as well as built and tripped with my own cedar strip. I just got my first Wenonah Wilderness this spring and did a solo on 13 June. This Wilderness is - by far - my favorite of them all. Stable. Not too heavy in the Tuff-weave lay up. It does everything I want a tripping canoe to do. "

ozarkpaddler: " yellowcanoe: "Your best is what you chose now. I hope that is true.. But Ozark Paddler we will look out for you.. I am glad you are resurrected into the tripping community you bionic guy.. Everyone look for a MR Courier they are deep boats.. "

yellowcanoe: " ozarkpaddler: " yellowcanoe: "Your best is what you chose now. I hope that is true.. But Ozark Paddler we will look out for you.. I am glad you are resurrected into the tripping community you bionic guy.. Everyone look for a MR Courier they are deep boats.. "

HighnDry: "This is the version of that design that I made: "

paddlinjoe: " bwcasolo: " my prism is my buddy. i have since this photo, moved the seat back to center and made a removable yoke. this was first trip after sawbill purchase. they order them this way. did not care for the set-up."

TomT: " It's a 1994 Blackhawk Starship in fiberglass. I love it but looking for a lighter boat now. this one is approx 52 lbs. I had new guunels custom made in 2011. I'm selling if interested. You won't find many of these around and it's a high volume tripper perfect for the BW. "

bwcasolo: " paddlinjoe: " bwcasolo: " my prism is my buddy. i have since this photo, moved the seat back to center and made a removable yoke. this was first trip after sawbill purchase. they order them this way. did not care for the set-up."

SweetBerryWine: "ozarkpaddler, That MRC is gorgeous! "

paddlinjoe: "Thanks house of spam, Highndry, KarlBAndersen1 and gkimball for the pictures and links for the yoke. I am going to get started on making one."

houseofspam: " paddlinjoe: "Thanks house of spam, Highndry, KarlBAndersen1 and gkimball for the pictures and links for the yoke. I am going to get started on making one."

HansSolo: " As far as “best solo canoe”, there are a lot of variables which will produce various opinions; as seen on this thread. "

mjmkjun: "Nice pics & beautiful canoe, Hans Solo. Any comment(s) on Yellowstone Solo for BWCA tripping? "

TomT: " HansSolo: " As far as “best solo canoe”, there are a lot of variables which will produce various opinions; as seen on this thread. "

yellowcanoe: " The new Cruiser looks like it could be hard to jam a pack into! Unless you pack light and I am not good at that."

paddlinjoe: "I've only paddled two different solo canoes. Bell Magic and Wenonah Wilderness. “The Magic was undeniably efficient and the glide was wonderful. I used it the first time a tooke a solo canoe on a trip, and there were several times where I quite suddenly lot my balance with it in unexpected situations. Never had that feeling in any other canoe I've paddled. Obviously I needed more practice with it.

jaimed: "NorthStar Magic. Blacklite Bronze aluminium gunwales, thwarts and grab handles. Ash portage yoke, web seats hung on ash trusses. Retails $2895+tax "

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Best Solo Canoe in 2024 (REVIEW GUIDE)

The very idea of solo paddling a canoe can be off-putting to many people. Canoes are meant for friends and lovers, and piloting one alone just seems like a very sad activity. We don’t feel that way about kayaking though, which often involves paddling alone. This incongruence exposes the wrongheadedness in how people perceive canoes, which are really just another means of navigating the water, no different from a kayak.

If you take a lot of canoe trips but come up short paddling buddies, a solo canoe might be the best option for you. My personal favorite for solo adventures is the Old Town 119 Solo Canoe . It can be used with a single-bladed canoe paddle or a two-bladed kayak paddle, depending on your personal preferences. It’s lightweight and has superb maneuverability and secondary stability.

Last update on 2024-04-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Finding the right solo canoe isn’t all that different from choosing one that can carry two or more people though. However, the importance of some characteristics will be amplified by the nature of solo paddling: weight, maneuverability, and tracking, just to name a few. That’s why it’s especially important to carefully research your choices before making a purchase, and fortunately, I’ve already done the work for you.

Reviews of the Best Solo Canoes

1. old town 119 solo canoe.

The " target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"> 119 Solo Canoe from Old Town is a much more traditional option for solo paddlers compared to its NEXT brethren. It’s 11 feet and 9 inches long, weighs in at 49 lb, and has a rather ordinary hull shape.

The 119 utilizes a rounded hull that gives it incredible maneuverability but sacrifices primary stability in the process. If you’re new to canoeing or plan to use this on fishing trips where you’ll need to stand up a lot of the time , this might not be the canoe for you. That being said, it has excellent secondary stability – no need to worry about you or your gear going overboard.

Some users have complained that the seat isn’t very comfortable – it’s just some mesh stretched between two pieces of wood. I’m not sure if they were trying to cut weight or if this was a cost-saving measure, but it won’t feel very good after a few hours of paddling and might need to be replaced with an aftermarket seat.

While many of the solo canoes do not have a yoke setup for portaging, I feel like the 119 Solo should have, since it’s a more traditional design. This would have gone a long way in improving its portability. 

The Old Town 119 Solo is a rock-solid option if you’re accustomed to a traditional canoe setup, but would prefer something shorter than can more easily be handled by a single paddler. It’s quite affordable and with Old Town’s reputation, you can be certain it won’t let you down for years to come.

• Super maneuverable
• Somewhat lightweight
• Good secondary stability
• The seat isn’t very comfortable
• Not very good primary stability
• Doesn’t come with a yoke for portaging

  View on Amazon

2. Old Town NEXT Solo Canoe

  No products found.

It doesn’t surprise me one bit that Old Town, the king of canoe manufacturers, has come up with one of the most innovative canoe designs on the market right now.

The No products found. looks a lot like a kayak, having a full seat with a backrest, foot pegs, and a low profile hull that sits close to the water. While you’re welcome to use a single-bladed canoe paddle, it works equally well with a double-bladed kayak paddle if that’s what you’re comfortable with.

The NEXT’s hull is designed with straight edges and a subtle rocker that tracks much better than some of the other solo canoes out there. When you’re in it, the boat feels incredibly streamlined. The low-profile hull is a double-edged sword though – it gives the NEXT excellent primary stability, but cut downs on the volume available for gear storage.

With its diminished capacity, I cannot recommend the NEXT for multiday camping trips or fishing adventures with a lot of gear.

At 59 lb, this canoe is a little heavier than some of the other solo canoes out there, but that’s to be expected with its 13-foot length. You shouldn’t have too much trouble moving it between your vehicle and the put-in point though.

I can’t shake the thinking that many people that are looking at buying the NEXT might be better off with a kayak though. Since it doesn’t have a lot of storage and paddles like a kayak, would it be better to just have a kayak? Not if you value the ability to portage and the freedom of movement that a canoe brings. In that case, the NEXT Solo might be the perfect choice for your needs.

• Comfortable seat with backrest
• Paddling style familiar to kayakers
• Innovative hull design with great tracking and primary stability
• Lower than average storage capacity
• Heavy for its size

No products found.

3. MYCANOE 2.5 Folding Portable Canoe

Ever since ORU’s folding kayak was featured on the show Shark Tank, there’s been a renewed interest in collapsible boats. Most of the innovation has been in kayaks, but thankfully, MYCANOE has brought that same level of portability to the canoe market.

Many first-time users could be forgiven for being skeptical of a folding boat. They take time to set up, and nobody wants a project at the put-in point. Unlike many skin-on-frame folding kayaks though, the MYCANOE 2.5 is easy to set up and only takes five to ten minutes. Just fold the pieces into place and secure the buckles to lock them together.

It also might be frightening venturing into open water with something that you simply folded into place (and are anxious that could unfold at any moment). Those fears are unfounded though, the MYCANOE is just as solid as any non-folding boat once it’s assembled and it shows through its excellent tracking.

The canoe paddles very well with just one person, thanks to its unique oarlock system. However, it has two seats, which gives you more flexibility compared to many canoes designed for solo travel. It should be noted that the MYCANOE is 14-feet-long, which can be challenging for first-time solo paddlers to turn.

When folded up, the MYCANOE fits into a 37” by 8” by 25” case. That isn’t exactly small, but compared to a 14-foot-long plastic boat, it’s not that bad. It is a bit disheartening that it weighs 52 lb though, heavier than most non-folding canoes. Had they shaved off just a foot or two from its length, it would have been under the 50 lb limit that most airlines set for checked luggage – perfect for overseas paddling adventures.

Having a folding canoe not only saves space in small apartments but also gets you out on the water more. It can be stashed in your car and used anytime you have an hour to spare. That kind of convenience comes at a cost though, and the MYCANOE is a bit more expensive than most solo canoes.

• Folds up into a large shoulder bag
• Very easy to assemble
• Tracks well
• Comes with rowing system for easy solo travel
• Weighs 52 lb, exceeding checked bag limit
• A little long for solo paddling

View on Amazon

4. Grumman 12’9” Solo Canoe

Aluminum canoes used to be incredibly popular: they’re durable, relatively lightweight, and fairly easy to fix. But they’ve been going out of style ever since plastics engineers have been making better and better composites.

Grumman is one of the last holdouts in the once vast field of aluminum canoes and their 12’9” solo canoe is still a contender for best boat to paddle alone. It has fantastic primary stability thanks to its bulbous hull shape but manages to track well for a short canoe. The hull also holds a lot for its length with a 500 lb capacity that makes this ideal for overnight excursions and fishing trips with lots of gear .

As would be expected with an aluminum boat, it’s nearly bulletproof when it comes to durability. So long as you take even a modicum of care for it, there’s a chance you’ll be passing this boat down to your children or grandchildren. Should something go wrong and it needs a patch, it’s a whole lot easier to do than on a plastic boat. That kind of durability comes at a price though – you should expect to pay about 50% more than with a plastic canoe.

It still has all the downsides of aluminum canoes though, mainly that it causes quite the racket whenever something so much as brushes against it, and it conducts heat and cold quite well. You’ll need to lay down some insulation between your knees and the hull if you’re paddling in cold water and the same goes for it being left out in the sun.

• Incredibly durable construction
• Over 500 lb weight capacity.
• Excellent primary stability
• Great tracking
• Makes a lot of noise
• Conducts heat and cold very well

5. Sun Dolphin Scout SS

Okay, this one isn’t actually a solo canoe – it has three seats. I’m including it as one of the best solo canoes because it has all that extra space though. Many of us aren’t strictly solo paddlers and would like the flexibility to carry two extra friends or family members on a few adventures.

The Sun Dolphin Scout SS stands out as a worthy solo vessel simply because it has a well-positioned center seat which makes controlling the boat by yourself easy enough. The canoe is still 14-feet-long, so it will take some practice, but it can be done, especially if you’ve got some paddling experience under your belt.

This canoe is also a great option for anglers looking for a little extra space, of which it has plenty when you’re paddling alone – 765 lb to be precise. It was designed with fishing in mind with six rod holder mounts and it even has a square stern to mount a trolling motor .

The other problem with paddling solo in the Sun Dolphin is that it weighs 86 lb, far too much for most people to carry alone. You’ll need to purchase a cart to go with it if you want to transport it to the put-in point without a struggle.

Also, the plastic seats on the Sun Dolphin aren’t exactly comfortable, so expect to do a lot of standing to prevent your butt and back from hurting.

The Sun Dolphin SS is one of the least expensive canoes you can buy though, so these problems seem rather minor and it’s a great option if you want the flexibility to carry some extra paddlers but mostly paddle solo.

• Friends and family can paddle with you
• Built-in rod holder mounts
• Has square stern for mounting a trolling motor
• Very inexpensive
• Hard to paddle alone
• Seats are uncomfortable
• Weighs a lot

How to Choose the Best Solo Canoe – Buyer’s Guide

If you’re not sold on it already, then let me reiterate that solo canoeing is a fantastic experience – just you, the sounds of nature, and some elegant paddle strokes propelling you through a beautiful landscape. No unnecessary chattering from friends or significant others, and more importantly, no need to coordinate schedules.

While many paddlers suggest that this is a role best filled by kayaks, I respectfully disagree. Canoes are fun in their own right, and can be a much superior platform if your adventures include much portaging, which kayaks are notoriously bad at. These are some of the most important features to consider as you choose your solo canoe.

Hull Design

The first thing to look at when choosing a solo canoe is the hull design, as this will dictate most of the boat’s properties. Most solo canoes will fall somewhere between nine and fourteen feet in length. Longer boats will track better but will be more difficult to turn.  

Another consideration is hull width – wider boats typically have greater primary stability (which is a way of saying that they feel less tippy in rough water). They’re also slower and less maneuverable as they have more surface area touching the water and resisting any changes in motion. Don’t expect to do any races with a wide hull, but they’re great for fishing where you might do a lot of standing up.

The overall design of the hull makes quite a difference too. Boats with tall, straight sides or ones that form a V-shape are going to feel less stable, but they cut through the water much better. They’re not the most maneuverable though, as their blade-like design resists turning. For a more maneuverable canoe, look for something with a rounded hull that can slide into a turn. These will feel tippier as the canoe rolls to the side a little to gracefully complete a turn.

Carrying Capacity and Storage

This shouldn’t be as big of an issue for you as most solo canoes have more carrying capacity than is needed; they only need to carry the weight of one passenger. Perhaps a more important consideration is storage capacity, which is a measure of the canoe’s internal volume rather than how much weight it can carry.

Canoes with a tumblehome design, where the canoe is wider below the waterline than above it, have greater stability but at the cost of storage capacity. Most canoes actually flare out above the waterline though, which makes for a greater internal volume at the cost of stability. This types of hulls are better suited for more experienced paddlers.

Canoes are not generally known for their comfortable seating, at least compared to their kayak counterparts. Most don’t come with backrests, as canoes are intended to operate in both directions depending on which way the paddler is facing – it’s one of the biggest advantages of a canoe. Many paddlers will actually kneel inside the hull to give themselves a lower center of gravity.

No one wants to take an uncomfortable canoe trip though; if you have a bad back or poor circulation, it’s a good idea to look for a boat that has a comfortable setup.

Canoes with webbing for seats are somewhat better compared to plastic seats, but the best boats will have foam or air-cushioned. Just know that the more complex your seat, the more you’re giving up in terms of flexibility as cushier seats usually limit mobility.

Not only will you need to paddle this canoe by yourself, but you’ll also need to get it into the water without any assistance. Therefore, most solo canoes are a bit lighter than their tandem counterparts.

Most solo canoes weigh less simply because they’re shorter, but it’s a good idea to check the specs before buying one to ensure that it won’t throw your back out getting it to the put-in point.

A few models contain a yoke, which makes them much easier to carry alone. This is the wooden beam that sits near the front third of the boat and has an indentation that fits around your neck. Just stick your head in and can carry the weight of the boat on your shoulders rather than with your arms.

Admittedly, this carrying process works much better when you have a buddy spotting for you, calling out if you’re about to run into something. But if you’re doing canoe trails that require a lot of portaging, it’s best to find one with a yoke, even if you don’t have a spotter.

My Choice for the Best Solo Canoe

If I only had one pick for the Old Town 119" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"> best solo canoe, that would be the Old Town 119 .It’s lightweight, sturdy, has plenty of space and provides incredible maneuverability and secondary stability.

While the Old Town 119 is my favorite solo canoe, you might have slightly different preferences and needs.

The Grumman is the most durable of the bunch and if you don’t plan on purchasing another canoe for the next twenty years, this might be a solid choice.

On the other hand, if this is your first foray into the world of solo canoeing, you can’t do much better than the No products found. . If you’re already a kayaker, than you won’t have much of a learning curve to deal with. The seat is also incredibly comfortable without any upgrades.

If you have a lower budget, the Sun Dolphin Scout SS is a great pick.

No matter which canoe you choose though, I can pretty much guarantee you’ll have a good time. Even a mediocre day on the river beats a good day… well just about anywhere else!

Top Rated Canoes

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Kings of Adventure

Best Solo Canoe

Author: Matthew Powell

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Top Solo Canoes Under Review

Grumman 12’ 9” solo, wenonah argosy tuf-weave solo, old town discovery 119 solo, ​old town next solo, ​wooden boat usa old modern 16.

This super-light (44lbs), double-ended traditional style solo-canoe, is extremely easy to maneuver, even when filled to its recommended carrying capacity (very generous for a smaller boat).

Thanks to its tough gunnels, strong rivets, and special age-hardened Aluminium alloy hull, it makes you feel confident when on wilder rivers and comfortable whilst doing longer journeys. It will consistently perform well and be easy to rack alone at the end of a tough day on the water.

Things we like:

This sturdy, strong and very light canoe glides through stronger currents and is super comfortable on glass-clear lakes too, giving you a good flexibility on what you do. It is remarkably strong for its size, which means it can out-perform other composite boats.

Things we don’t:

It is a small boat, so for the taller or larger paddlers it may be a tighter fit. However, it is safe to carry a good amount of kit, as it has a low centre of gravity and sits nicely in the water.

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This is designed specifically for the solo-expedition canoeist. Its styling fits those wanting to paddle a nimble canoe confidently across strong currents and down wilder rivers. The added depth means that there is more carrying volume, whilst remaining strong on white water and still comfortable to paddle on longer journeys.

The Argosy’s lean is predictable in tight turns, helping to build confidence in trickier situations.

There is a great amount of technique to learn whilst soloing on stronger rivers, so a canoe like this will add a new dimension to a paddling experience, whilst still being agile, light-weight and comfortable.

It is one of the bigger canoes in the solo category, but this means it has a bigger storage capability. The lightweight material means the steering isn’t compromised by its slightly larger hull.

This fits in the solo-canoe class but has a lot of space and the width adds to the stability and strength whilst on the water. However, due to it only being 11.9 feet long, it is not advisable to stand up, as it can be rather tippy.

For those wishing to only ever solo-paddle, having a light and small canoe will always make the journey a little easier e.g. the boat’s maneuverability will be much more responsive to subtle paddle strokes, and re-racking at the very end will be far easier.

It is a very compact canoe, meaning it is very agile, stable and easy to handle across a range of water types. The manufacture even states you can use either a single or double-bladed paddle too. The well fitted and durable nylon web seat adds to the ride comfort, whilst allowing for good amount of storage space.

Its 11.9 foot length does mean it is set at only being a solo-canoe, with its width being slightly trickier to tie on compared to longer boats. It is also a little awkward to portage, so it may be worth buying a clamp-able yoke to help with comfort whilst carrying it yourself (or a decent wheel set). The seat is bolted on 6” from the floor, so a backrest will help add some comfort too.

This is Old Town’s hybrid canoe. They claim to have incorporated both canoeing and kayaking characteristics in one small, fun, and modern boat.

This “Sporting” canoe boasts a pronounced tumblehome and has a lower profile in the water, hopefully making it an easier paddling experience. You can use a double-bladed paddle or a traditional canoe single-blade paddle, meaning that you have a unique chance to mix up your paddling style depending on which river/lake you are taking on. The colors are very vibrant and different compared to other brands, meaning it could add a new aspect of ‘style’ to the sport.

This is a fun ‘hybrid’ canoe, with the removable seat system allowing you to move into the centre of the boat if you need to paddle with a single blade. It does come with a built in yolk and comfortable carry handles, but the best part is that the flatter profile improves the handling that can rival a kayak. It has a smoother ride through the shallower rivers and gives paddlers a flexibility that more style-specific canoes lack.

The fusion of two styles may prove difficult for the more hardened canoeist to overcome at first. It’s always a bit tricky to trust companies that “fuse” styles, when each paddle sport has perfectly good models that fit personal preference. However, this ‘hybrid’ does boast the best of both types of boat e.g. a flatter bottom and comfier sitting position (removable) found in a kayak and an open top, robust nature and space found in a traditional style canoe (it’s also stable enough to stand up in). The cross-over features seem to fit well and offer a new style of paddling on the various water types.

It may seem that most companies are steering away from using the more old-school methods of canoe building, but that leaves a gap in the market for Wooden Boat USA to offer a very unique and beautiful piece of “art”, that sticks with the more traditional styling and ‘feel’ that this type of canoe has been known for over the years. 

This is a hand-built wooden solo canoe that has lovely contouring from the wood that they use, making it suitable on the water and on a wall as decoration.

The feel of a wooden boat has its place in many people’s hearts, especially as many paddlers dream of being able to hand-make their own canoe. This is an extremely well crafted boat. The level of detail and care that has gone into making the angles and contours, creates a really smooth and fun ride whilst on the water.

Because of the costs associated with making a canoe from top quality woods, it does seem to allow manufactures to put on a rather LARGE price tag. This does make people wonder why they should buy a wooden boat, as composite materials do seem to last longer and boast the benefits of being stronger and more durable. However, the ‘feel’ of a wooden boat is unlike a canoe made from man-made material and traditionalist to tend to swear by wood over composite models.

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Introduction

In the paddling world, solo canoeing is an art form. Not only do you have to power it forward, but you have to master steering all at the same time. One of the most obvious differences in this paddling style is that you can’t sneakily sit back and let the person up front do all the hard work. Solo canoeing might be your paddling style of choice, but what if you want to paddle on different water types or go out with friends from time to time?

You’re sure to find it tricky trying to tandem stroke in a smaller boat, so have you thought of buying a bigger boat? Do you say no to a bigger boat because you struggle when racking a heavier canoe? It’s definitely worth looking at which craft will suit all (or most) of your needs, so here is a short review of various solo canoes that will hopefully give you a better idea of what’s out there:

Many people say it’s all about the ‘connection’ you have with the canoe that matters, especially if you have a bigger frame or issues with kneeling. However, it is often very difficult to find a shop that lets you try out all the different boats on the market. You may be lucky to live close to a water sports club, as many offer the chance to talk with owners and possibly trial a boat or two. When it comes to what boat is right for you, you need to think about what you want from your canoe experience.

Do you want to do longer journeys or do you only like a few hours of paddling on glass-clear lakes? Perhaps you like trying out a certain style one week and then hit something wilder the next? If you have a paddling style in mind, you need a canoe that is either specifically designed to match your style or an all-rounder that offers you the flexibility to fit in with a changing lifestyle.

Remember that solo canoes come in various sizes, some with the ability to tandem paddle too. It all depends on you and your needs. Remember size is key, as a big boat is harder to steer on your own, but you will find it tricky if there isn’t enough space for you and all your kit. If you have to rack it on your own after a hard day on the water, weight is also something to consider, so having a canoe made out of a lighter material may be something that decides your boat for you.

Solo Canoe Options

Stability is important when paddling solo. Many solo canoes have been designed purely for added stability, but this could compromise the carrying capacity or increase the size, making it harder to paddle comfortably or efficiently. The bigger the craft, the more opportunity there is to do a variety of paddling styles or types of canoeing trips such as fishing, but this causes the boat to be harder to handle if you’re on wilder water or lesser experienced and totally on your own.

The smaller and solo-specific canoes limit your available space, even for just one paddler, but they are far more agile and maneuverable because of their shape and weight. If you want a really smooth and efficient trip, you might be better off having a much lighter, fast-moving, and efficient style, but if you want something that is versatile and flexible, you may want to look at an all-rounder that you are able to competently paddle on your own too.

Things to look for when buying your Solo Canoe

Solo-specific canoes are typically lightweight, stable, and agile and give you plenty of carrying capacity for one person. You need to be comfortable on longer journeys, as it is you that must do all the work, but remember that the canoe needs to be responsive when tackling the rougher waters and not too heavy when portaging/racking it on your own after a long day out on the water.

Some multi-use/all-rounder type canoes offer removable seating options, meaning you can paddle with a friend one day and solo on another. Shorter boats, with a comfortable central seating position and enough space for longer trips, allow you to paddle on a range of water types whilst still being efficient so that you are not too fatigued because of a bad power transfer from the paddle to the water. You may want to consider a square-stern canoe , as it actually improves the canoes’ stability and you can attach a trolling motor for those lazy days.

If you’re a keen paddler and want to get out on the water as often as you can, then solo-canoeing means you don’t have to rely on someone else to go with you and you can go whenever the time is right. It’s a good idea to get used to paddling as light as possible, as you might find it harder to paddle when the canoe is heavily laden with kit. You should also get used to paddling efficiently and remember that you are going to have to lift it all on your own. It may be wise to practice on calmer waters before hitting up the wilder rivers too.

Versatility

Solo canoes can also be used in pairs and tandems can be used as solos..! It’s all about getting into the right seating position and learning how to paddle efficiently. Be confident in learning the subtle strokes and being stable in your boat. You can get very long canoes that are ultra-light, which are actually lighter than many of the smaller solo-specific canoes on the market.

You can also clip in seats, move yolks and get canoes with three seats that are based on the improved seating positions for using the canoe both on your own and in a pair.

If you go out on your own, you must be a competent paddler. You don’t want to be struggling if you find yourself in trouble or go out on a river that suddenly turns wild. You don’t want to find yourself splashing around in the waves whilst your boat is tumbling down the river without you.

If you’re inexperienced it might be wise to go out with a group, as there is always a chance that you might fall in and you’d have someone to help with a water rescue. You must wear a buoyancy aid (that goes without saying), but it’s important for you to be able to bail out safely, without being snagged by any of your kit.

Solo-canoeing is a great pastime, especially if you like paddling more than your friends. This does mean that you really do need to find the right boat for you, as it is harder to solo a bigger model. However, if you want versatility, you may want to consider spending the time learning how to competently solo a bigger/longer canoe. This is because it is often good to have extra carrying volume if you like canoe-camping trips or use the same canoe to go on tandem paddle trips too. That being said, you need to be a competent paddler as it’s often quite an unstable experience when paddling on your own in a much larger model.

Also, if you like lake fishing or hunting on rivers, you will need a more rugged and hardwearing hull, plus choosing one that is bright and loud when paddling may not be the one for you. Each manufacturer offers their own color scheme and boasts that their canoe offers something special. It is wise to try out canoeing in a variety of sized boats, as you can figure out if you will enjoy this style or get tired due to the difficulty caused by the obvious difference in power transfer associated with solo paddling.

Author – Matthew

Matthew is a Canoe / Kayak Instructor with a BSc [Hons] in Outdoor Education.

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Baboosic Canoe - 14' Solo

At A Glance:

• Fiberglass (Classic) or Carbon-fiber/Kevlar (Expedition), and wood construction.
• Beam 29.75"  - Depth 13" -  Bow Height 22" -  Rocker 3"  
• Length  14' - Approx. weight 40 lbs.
• Capacity 550 lbs.

The Baboosic is a 14’ solo canoe that offers maximum speed and agility for the most discerning paddler, in a lightweight package that can be adapted to a variety of uses, from backcountry canoe camping to freestyle canoeing performances. 

The Baboosic is able to perform even the most demanding freestyle canoe maneuvers; it accelerates quickly, maintains speed effortlessly, and turns on a dime even when loaded with gear sufficient for a long solo paddling trip. Even if you’ve been canoeing for decades, this is a boat you won’t grow out of. 

Critically it weighs only ~ 40 pounds, making transfer into and out of the water quick and straightforward while operating alone.  This is thanks to its hybrid construction, utilizing either strong and lightweight Fiberglass, or kevlar and carbon fiber for added impact resistance, then reinforced with cherry ribs, for a perfect blend of durability, rigidity, and weight. The hardwood gunnels, decks, handles, and seat feature an attention to detail you won’t find elsewhere, and the immaculate gel-coat outer layer looks gorgeous in any setting.

Local pickup or delivery options available during checkout.

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8 Best Canoes for all Your Needs: From Solo Adventures to Family Trips

Have you decided to try canoeing? The thrill of being out on the waters can be quite exhilarating. But your experience can be positively or negatively affected by the type of canoe you use. This is why picking the right canoe is important, because you want your adventure to be as comfortable as possible. Canoes are available in different shapes and sizes. You simply need to pick the one that’s suitable for your needs.

The market is flooded with many brands, so how will you know which one is the best canoe to buy? To make your decision making easier, we’ve listed the top 8 canoes on the market. The products on our list were analyzed according to key features such as weight capacity, length, weight and warranty. All these features determine a number of factors such as performance and durability. From our list, one canoe that appealed to us the most is the Old Town Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman Canoe .

• Quick Summary
• Editor's Choice: Old Town Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman Canoe "Light canoe with a comfy padded and contoured seat, 11ft 9in in length and with a durable 3-layer design"
• Best Value: Lifetime Kodiak Canoe "Fantastic canoe with a 96-pound capacity, 3 seats and Quick-Release seatbacks"
• Most Durable : Old Town Discovery 158 Recreational Canoe "Heavy duty polyethylene canoe with a 1,150-pound weight capacity; protected by a lifetime warranty"
• Best Inflatable Canoe: Sea Eagle TC16 Inflatable Travel Canoe "Durable inflatable 16-foot canoe with a quick inflation time and a weight capacity of up to 845 lbs."
• Budget Pick: Intex Excursion Pro Kayak "Inflatable and affordable canoe with a 2-person 396.8-pound capacity comes with a pump, paddles, and one repair patch"
• Best Recreational Canoe: Old Town Discovery 133 Recreational Canoe "A tandem canoe with a huge 800-pound capacity, features oar locks for rowing, vinyl gunwales, and comfortable carrying handles"
• Best Narrow Canoe: Old Town Penobscot 164 Touring Canoe "Tough impact-resistant two-person canoe with a total weight capacity of 750 pounds"
• Best Square Stern Canoe: NuCanoe Frontier 12 Kayak "12-foot canoe with a max capacity of 650 lbs, features 2 rod holders, and a square stern for an electric trolling motor"

Top 8 Canoes Review 2024

Old Town Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman Canoe

• Weight capacity: 350 lbs.
• Length: 11ft 9in
• Weight: 57 lbs.
• Warranty: lifetime on hull

Extra features: padded, contoured seat with adjustable backrest; durable 3-layer polyethylene construction

For people looking for a versatile watercraft, consider this grab-and-go canoe from Old Town Discovery. Whether you’re an angler or hunter, you’ll appreciate this canoe which we’ve rated the best canoe on our list. You can use it for fishing or hunting.

Weighing only 57lb, it’s one of the lightest canoes on our list.

This is the product to pick if you’re thinking of embarking on a solo outdoor adventure. With a weight capacity of 350lb, it can accommodate most people.

Paddle in comfort while sitting on the padded and contoured seat. You can relax comfortably on the backrest provided, while you wait for fish to take the bait.

With a length of 11ft, it’s also one of the shortest canoes on our list. A short canoe isn’t the most stable but you’ll appreciate that it can travel much faster than its longer counterparts. Also, a short canoe means transporting it will be easy, especially if you don’t have a large vehicle.

Another aspect you’ll appreciate with this canoe is its durability. The three-layer polyethylene construction makes the unit strong enough to withstand a few knocks if you happen to bump into rocks while adrift.

The hull is quite spacious. You and your gear will be accommodated comfortably.

Make use of the convenient handles to transport the unit from one place to the next.

• Easy to carry
• Padded seats
• Not very stable
• Only for one person
• Our 1 pick for the: best solo canoe

Lifetime Kodiak Canoe

• Weight capacity: 600 lbs.
• Length: 13 ft.
• Weight: 96 lbs.
• Warranty: 5-year limited

Extra features: transom motor mount bracket, bow and stern seats, cupholders, luggage-style handles

As stated earlier, the reason why this Lifetime Kodiak canoe made it to our list is because of its excellent value.

It’s the canoe to pick if you want to take your family out on a water cruise, as this recreational boat can accommodate up to three people. Each passenger has a drink holder molded to his or her seat which is convenient for leisurely days on the water.

There’s adequate space to store your gear thanks to the storage compartment provided.

Transporting the canoe from one place to the next is made easier thanks to the carry handles.

The canoe comes with paddles, so you don’t have to make an additional purchase.

This canoe is almost 13ft, which some might find too long. But bear in mind that you’re guaranteed more stability with a longer canoe. And extra stability is what you want especially if you’re traveling with family.

The manufacturer covered this canoe with a five-year limited warranty.

• Easy to transport
• Cost-effective
• Our 2 pick for the: best solo canoe

Old Town Discovery 158 Recreational Canoe

• Weight capacity: 1,150 lbs.
• Length: 15ft 8in
• Weight: 87 lbs.

Extra features: 3-layer molded polyethylene hull; UV-resistant, nylon-webbed seats; features an ash wood carrying yoke and thwart & carry handles

If a long lasting canoe is what you’re after, consider this Old Town Discovery recreational canoe. Made of three layer molded polyethylene, this hull can withstand a couple of knocks during your cruise.

Though strong and durable, you’ll be impressed by how surprisingly light this canoe is. Material used in its construction is also breathable and UV-resistant. Constant exposure to the sun during those hot summer days won’t prematurely damage the unit.

The canoe features a sleek design which makes it visually appealing. For people who want to embark on their adventure in style, this is the hull to pick. But the design goes far beyond the canoe’s aesthetical value: it allows the unit to perform well in the water.

You can expect a stable cruise if you pick this model – no need to worry about capsizing into the water.

Comfort is also guaranteed with this canoe. The nylon-webbed seats will provide you with maximum comfort. Carrying the unit from your vehicle to shore will be stress free. Simply make use of the molded handles.

This canoe supports two people. If ever you want to take your loved one on a romantic getaway cruise, consider this one. Just make sure both of you don’t exceed the 1150lb weight carrying capacity of this model.

Weighing a little under 90lb, you can tell it’s slightly heavy. But we’re certain you can carry it comfortably between the two of you.

You’re likely to be impressed by the lifetime warranty this unit comes with.

The canoe is almost 16ft in length which makes it rather long, but remember this means you’ll have a stable trip on the water.

• UV resistant
• Life time warranty
• Slightly heavy

Sea Eagle TC16 Inflatable Travel Canoe

• Weight capacity: 845 lbs.
• Length: 16ft
• Weight: 61 lbs.
• Warranty: not specified

Extra features: 7-9 minute inflation time; made from a highly durable 1000D reinforced material

Do you prefer to travel light? Then consider picking this inflatable canoe which allows for easy storage. This canoe weighs 60lb which makes it relatively lightweight compared to other models. Carrying it to the water will certainly be hassle free. You can easily fit it in the trunk of some vehicles.

This canoe weighs less compared to similar canoes within the same price range.

Many people are skeptical about the durability of inflatable canoes. That’s something you don’t have to worry about if you pick this unit, which is made from 1000 denier rated material. As a result, you’re guaranteed a long lasting canoe that can withstand any harsh conditions you may encounter while canoeing. The manufacturer even took it a step further by overlapping the seams for added reinforcement. Included with this hull is a repair kit that you can use to immediately fix the unit if damage does occur.

With a carrying capacity of 800lb, this canoe can accommodate two or three people—including their gear.

You’ll be impressed by the incomparable stability of this canoe – it’s even stable enough to stand in without feeling like you’ll tip over. The bow/stern molds on the unit increase trackability. You won’t be going off course for the duration of your canoeing adventure.

The adjustable seats will allow for a comfortable seating position during your cruise. And they also feature backrests to provide you with maximum support as you paddle.

Inflating the canoe won’t take much time. In just under 10 minutes it’ll be ready for use. Though it’s easy to inflate, you can consider an electric pump to speed things along.

• Quick to inflate
• Easy to pack
• Heavy to carry alone

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak

• Weight capacity: 396.8 lbs.
• Length: 12ft 7in
• Weight: 44.7 lbs.
• Warranty: 1-year limited

Extra features: 3-chamber construction; comes with 2 paddles, pump and skeg

And now, for our budget pick. We’ve picked this Intex Excursion Pro which can accommodate two people provided they’re within the canoe’s 396.8lb weight carrying capacity.

If you decide to go canoeing with this boat alone, you might find it difficult to navigate. So always make sure you bring a buddy along.

Aside from its affordability, what caught our attention was the attractive color and design. You can definitely canoe in style if you pick this unit.

Aesthetics aside, you’ll be impressed by the solid build. Made of  low profile Polypropylene, the canoe will definitely last you long.

To ensure the canoe remains afloat even after punctures, the boat features 3 air chambers. If one chamber is damaged, the others will still remain inflated to keep the boat moving.

Leaks are the least of your worries if you pick this model, thanks to the Airtight system. Also, inflating and deflating the unit we’ll be quick and easy thanks to the high-pressure valve.

You can safely store your gear in the secure storage provided, and carrying the canoe to and from the water is made easy thanks to the carry handles.

Seats are not only elevated, but adjustable, to ensure a comfortable sitting position for easy paddling.

Along with the canoe, you’ll also get a pump, two paddles, pressure gauge and a carry bag. And the product is covered by a 90-day limited warranty.

Important to note is that the canoe can be set off course by extremely hectic winds, so avoid canoeing on a windy day.

• Sturdy backrest
• Comfortable seats
• Comes with paddles
• Fast inflation and deflation
• Difficult to navigate for one person
• Our 3 pick for the: best solo canoe
• Our 5 pick for the: best fishing kayak under 500

Old Town Discovery 133 Recreational Canoe

• Weight capacity: 800 lbs.
• Length: 13ft 3in
• Weight: 78 lbs.

Extra features: heavy-duty 3-layer, molded polyethylene hull; contoured bow and stern seats

Here’s another durable canoe which features three layers of molded polyethylene. And we’ve voted it the best recreational canoe. Thanks to the material used in the canoe’s construction, it’s pretty flexible. But you’ll appreciate how lightweight the hull is.

You’ll appreciate how this canoe is designed to offer you maximum stability and easy maneuverability. The chances of going off course are highly unlikely.

You’ll find the canoe easy to carry to the water. Simply make use of the carry handles provided.

This canoe has a 800lb carrying capacity and is ideally suited for two people. It weighs 78lb which makes it a heavy unit. But between the two of you, you’ll manage to carry it.

The canoe is 13.3ft long so you can expect to travel at relatively fast speeds if that’s your preference.

• Fast speeds
• Easy to maneuver
• Our 4 pick for the: best fishing canoe

Old Town Penobscot 164 Touring Canoe

• Weight capacity: 1250 lbs.
• Weight: 80 lbs.

Extra features: abrasion & impact-resistant thermoformed polyethylene hull; nylon mesh seats, aluminum gunwales, comfortable carrying handles

Old Town is known for manufacturing high quality canoes and this Penobscot 164 Model is no exception. Made of polyethylene, you’re guaranteed a long lasting unit. It’s not only impact-resistant but it’s also designed to withstand most forms of abrasion during canoeing.

The seats are contoured to allow for comfortable seating during paddling.

The boat has a 1250lb carrying capacity but because of the narrow design it’s best suited for smaller passengers.

There’s ample space to store your travelling gear, food, and valuables. Make use of the cup holders provided to place your drinks during canoeing.

It’s easy to move around thanks to the comfortable carry handles.

You’ll appreciate that the unit comes with a lifetime warranty—much like all Old Town canoes.

The green color is a welcome change from most dull-colored hulls. So pick this unit if you want a canoe with a pop of color. This color also increases the canoe’s visibility while adrift. In case of emergencies and storms you’ll be easy to spot.

A few users have noted that it bows in the middle after some time. Just make sure you observe and adhere to the hull’s carrying capacity to avoid exerting too much pressure on it.

• Impact resistant
• Sizeable storage
• Attractive color
• May bow after a while
• For small-bodied people

NuCanoe Frontier 12 Kayak

• Weight capacity: 650 lbs.
• Length: 12ft
• Weight: 77 lbs.

Extra features: 2 built-in rod holders; high-density polyethylene hull; comfortable molded seat

Last but not least, we have yet another NuCanoe Frontier 12 Kayak which promises stability and optimal tracking.

If you’re not a fan of paddling, then opt for this hull which is can be powered by an electrical motor. Unfortunately, the motor isn’t included, so you’ll have to purchase it separately. But at least you don’t have to pay much for the canoe itself.

If you install the motor, the canoe steers and maneuvers pretty much like a regular canoe. The only difference is you don’t have to do all the work.

You’ll be impressed by the overall build quality of the boat. It is a durable unit which is built to last. And most users are impressed by how exceptionally sturdy it is.

The manufacturer made provision for storing your rods in the holders provided.

We do wish the manufacturer had included a cooler to store your drinks. But given the low price, we suppose you get what you paid for.

• Sturdy build
• Solid construction
• Motor powered
• Motor not included
• Our 6 pick for the: best solo canoe
• Things to Consider

Are you ready to buy? In order to make a sound decision, there are facts you need to know. An informed decision will save you from buyer’s remorse. Have a look at the following guide as we outline all you need to know about canoes before making a final purchase.

• Advantages of having a canoe

• Canoes are generally much larger and therefore more suitable for a big family
• They give you more room to maneuver compared to the other types
• It’s easier to get in and out of a canoe
• Canoes generally have more storage space to accommodate your gear
• Since you tend to sit high above the water in a canoe, your chances of getting wet are slim
• A canoe is more stable which will give you a sense of security and eliminate the risk of capsizing

Features to consider when choosing a canoe

We understand how your budget largely determines the canoe you buy. But that doesn’t mean you have to pick the cheapest one you find. Consider the following factors in order to buy the right one for you.

• What kind of canoe do you need?

Ask yourself this: what do you need the canoe for? Do you want it for recreational use or for fishing? Are you planning on going on a family adventure? This will determine the canoe you pick. If you want to use it with family, then you’ll need a big one such as the NuCanoe Frontier 12 Kayak . If it’s for a one-man fishing adventure, then a smaller one will suffice. Here are examples of a few types:

• River canoes: As the name suggests this type is ideal for use in rivers or streams. River canoes have excellent maneuverability. In addition, they’re also impact-resistant.
• Recreational canoes: Pick this type if you want to venture on flat water. This type is very stable and works best for fishing, particularly in lakes and ponds.
• Multi-purpose canoes: A smart move is to purchase a versatile canoe that won’t restrict you with regards to application. The Old Town Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman Canoe is one such example of a versatile canoe that can be used for many purposes, from hunting to fishing.
• You can use multi-purpose canoes in rough and calm waters. In addition, you’ll appreciate how these have more capacity—especially if you’re using it as a family.
• Seats and weight capacity

How many people are you planning to go canoeing with? Answering the question will help you determine how many seats your canoe must have. Aside from the number of seats, you need to consider the kind of seats it has. Some are more comfortable than others; canoes with flat benches are less comfortable than molded or contoured seats. Most canoes on our list have contoured seats that guarantee comfort.

If more than one person will be using the canoe, consider the weight capacity. Can it hold more than one person without the risk of capsizing? Check the rating on the canoe as it highlights the combined weight of passengers—and gear— it can handle.

• Length and weight

Smaller and shorter canoes will speed much faster in the water compared to their longer counterparts. If you prefer venturing into narrow streams and inlets consider shorter canoes.

Speaking of transportation, you also need to think of the weight of the canoe as this will determine:

• How easy it is to carry
• Whether it’ll be easy to load and offload from your vehicle
• The distance you can carry it for

Generally, canoes can weigh as little as 40lb, with the heaviest weighing over 120lb. Needless to say a heavy canoe will be difficult to carry from your vehicle to the water. If you’re going on a solo water adventure, it’s in your best interest to buy a light one so you can handle it easily by yourself. On the other hand, if you’re going canoeing with your buddies, you don’t have to worry about weight that much.

How wide is the canoe? The width of the canoe will largely determine stability. Wider canoes are more stable than their narrower counterparts. On the other hand, narrow canoes, though not as stable, are easier to maneuver.

While on the subject of dimensions, it’s necessary to discuss the depth of the canoe as it also affects stability.

Canoes with taller sides are more affected by extreme winds which negatively impacts stability.

Shallower canoes, though more stable allow more water in.

The shape of the canoe is equally important because it affects the stability of your canoe. A few common shapes include:

• Flat-bottom: This type is considered to be highly stable. Also, it’ll stay stationary in water for long periods of time if that’s your preference. Because of these two factors, this type is ideally suited for families or fishing. The only major drawbacks to flat bottom canoes are that they’re very slow and difficult to maneuver.
• Rounded bottom canoe: If speed is your preference, then rather opt for a rounded bottom canoe. This type is designed to travel fast.
• Shallow arch bottoms: Here is another type that offers maximum stability. Not only do they stay on course but they’re very efficient with regards to performance
• V-bottom hulls: This type also offers stability. They stay on course even better than shallow arch bottom canoes.
• Structure and build

It’s not uncommon for your canoe to hit a few rocks while adrift. You want a unit that can withstand such knocks. Here are a few examples of materials used in the construction of canoes:

• Aluminum: Generally, canoes made of aluminum are known to be tough; you don’t have to worry about premature damage of your unit.
• Plastic: If weight is your biggest concern, then consider a canoe made of plastic. The only problem is you may have to sacrifice durability for weight. As you can imagine, plastic isn’t the most durable material around.
• PVC: Most inflatable canoes are made of PVC which is considered to be both strong and flexible. However, it’s unfortunately prone to damage from other materials.
• Wood: Many traditional canoes are made of wood. Wood also provides some degree of durability and flexibility. Plus, canoes made of wood are aesthetically pleasing.

Aside from the build quality, you’ll need to consider the structure of the canoe. Is it inflatable or a solid hard shell hull? If a long lasting canoe is what you’re after, then one with a hull structure is ideal. Typically, one that features a hull structure usually has a highly durable three-layer structure.

• Comfort: seats and adjustability

As mentioned earlier, you want your canoeing adventure to be as comfortable as possible. What kind of seats do you need? If you suffer from back pain, you might want to opt for one with a backrest. Is it padded?

If you’re going to spend hours sitting, then consider one with padded seats for added comfort.

Will you be canoeing with your toddler? You’ll need a seat that you can securely strap your child in during the ride.

For such a sizeable investment it’s worth considering the warranty the canoe is covered by. Different manufacturers offer varying warranty periods and terms so make sure you read the fine print. Is it covered for materials, manufacturing defects or both? Is the canoe covered for parts as well as accessories?

Most manufacturers need you to have a sales receipt for any warranty claims so make sure you keep it safe.

• Extra features

Does the canoe come with storage compartments? A canoe that has provision for your gear is ideal.

Some canoes feature carry handles. These handles will make it easy for you to carry the unit as well as enter and exit it.

• Do canoes tip over easily?
• Are canoes or kayaks faster?
• Is canoeing dangerous?

The article on best canoes meticulously explores a variety of models, catering to the needs of both novice paddlers and seasoned adventurers. It highlights key features such as stability, durability, and comfort, ensuring readers can make an informed decision tailored to their specific requirements. Whether you seek serene lake explorations or thrilling river adventures, this guide serves as an indispensable resource. Ultimately, choosing from the best canoes ensures an unmatched experience on the water.

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• solo canoe Most popular | Sep., 2023
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Top Things to Do in Khimki, Russia - Khimki Must-See Attractions

Things to do in khimki.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Culture and Leisure Park of Lev Tolstoy

2. Ezhi Monument

3. Khimki Art Gallery Named After S. N. Gorshin

4. Church of The Holy Blessed Matrona of Moscow

5. The Square in front of the Government Office

6. Memorial to Citizens of Khimki Who Gave Their Life For Motherland

7. Monument to St. Peter and Fevronia

8. Kinogorod Piligrim Porto

9. Holy Trinity Church

10. Khimki Arena

11. Temple of New Martyrs and Russian Confessors

12. Nash Dom Drama Theater

13. planernaya olympic sports complex.

14. Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul

15. Church of the Epiphany

16. Country Park

17. Park Eco-Bereg

18. Temple of The Resurrection

19. TAINY MIRA

20. St. George Temple

22. Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin

23. protection of the holy virgin temple.

24. St. Nicholas Chapel

25. Park of Maria Rubtsova

26. St. Mikhail the Archangel Chapel

27. gallery 3d sculpture museum.

28. Park near the Government Office

29. Vzlyotka

30. History Museum of Sheremetyevo

What travellers are saying

• Culture and Leisure Park of Lev Tolstoy
• Kinogorod Piligrim Porto
• Ezhi Monument
• Khimki Art Gallery Named After S. N. Gorshin
• Park Eco-Bereg
• Country Park
• Park of Maria Rubtsova
• Park near the Government Office

Top Things to Do in Khimki, Russia - Khimki Must-See Attractions

Things to do in khimki.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Culture and Leisure Park of Lev Tolstoy

2. Ezhi Monument

3. Khimki Art Gallery Named After S. N. Gorshin

4. Church of The Holy Blessed Matrona of Moscow

5. The Square in front of the Government Office

6. Memorial to Citizens of Khimki Who Gave Their Life For Motherland

7. Monument to St. Peter and Fevronia

8. Kinogorod Piligrim Porto

9. Holy Trinity Church

10. Khimki Arena

11. Temple of New Martyrs and Russian Confessors

12. Nash Dom Drama Theater

13. planernaya olympic sports complex.

14. Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul

15. Church of the Epiphany

16. Country Park

17. Park Eco-Bereg

18. Temple of The Resurrection

19. TAINY MIRA

20. St. George Temple

22. Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin

23. protection of the holy virgin temple.

24. St. Nicholas Chapel

25. Park of Maria Rubtsova

26. St. Mikhail the Archangel Chapel

27. gallery 3d sculpture museum.

28. Park near the Government Office

29. Vzlyotka

30. History Museum of Sheremetyevo

What travellers are saying

• Culture and Leisure Park of Lev Tolstoy
• Kinogorod Piligrim Porto
• Ezhi Monument
• Khimki Art Gallery Named After S. N. Gorshin
• Park Eco-Bereg
• Country Park
• Park of Maria Rubtsova
• Park near the Government Office