In keeping with the traditional character of these Maine canoes, native Maine woods make up the hull. Ribs and planking are of clear Northern white cedar, preferred by canoe builders for the last few thousand years because of its lightness, strength, flexibility, and rot resistance. Inwales are white spruce, while outwales are offered in black cherry, spruce, and ash. Other woods may be available on request. Tropical woods are avoided to conserve the earth's fast disappearing rain forests.
The U.S. grade #10 canvas covering (#12 for lightweight models) is weatherproofed with an oil/silica base filler. Marine enamel paints provide a wide choice of colors for the exterior. The interior is well protected with spar varnish. All fastenings are marine grade brass or bronze.
Ash framed seats with pre-woven natural caning are standard, as are half-ribs. A
hand carved portaging yoke of ash or maple serves as a center thwart. Also included
are two-tone paint/shellac with waterline and a removable thwart for solo paddling.
Fishermen will recognize that this name comes from a famous fishing fly. They will also
recognize in this canoe the qualities that endear it to those who fish, hunt, or
just enjoy paddling in streams, ponds, and marshes. Being broad at the beam and fairly
flat-bottomed makes it extremely stable and suitable for very shallow waters. Its
shortness (14 feet) enables it to maneuver by paddle or pole in tight spots. For those
who portage frequently or simply want a light canoe, the Warden's Worry is available
in a special lightweight model weighing approximately 55 pounds.
This craft also serves well those who desire a light, stable canoe for solo or tandem paddling, with or without kids or dogs. It has enough volume to accommodate two paddlers and a weekend's worth of camping gear.
Last but not least, the Warden's Worry avoids the "fat wedge" look of many canoes
in this class by virtue of graceful entry and sheer lines, as well as just enough
tumblehome.
| Length: | 14' 2" |
| Beam: | 39" |
| Depth: | 12" |
| Bow Height: | 21 1/2" |
| Weight: | 65 pounds 55 pounds - lightweight model |
| Price: | $2600 |
| $2100 to build your own (see Maine Journeys Workshops) |
Full in the middle and fine in the ends, the River Mink paddles as well as it looks. At 15'9"
it is big enough for two people and plenty of gear, yet at 68 pounds, it is light enough to carry
and cartop. A shallow arch hull design gives it stability and the ability to float in just inches
of water. When paddled solo it responds beautifully to a light touch.
This traditional Maine cedar/canvas canoe is a visual delight. The even sweep of the sheerline, a
moderate amount of rocker end to end, the handsome incurving tumblehome of the sides - all these
combine to make it a canoe of continuous curves. Couple this with the richness of varnished native
woods on the inside and the striking colors of marine grade paint on the outside, and you just might
want to hang it on a well - until you've paddled it, that is. Then you might not want to take it out
of the water.
| Length: | 15' 9" |
| Beam: | 36" |
| Depth: | 12" |
| Weight: | 68 pounds |
| Price: | $2800 |
| $2100 to build your own (see Maine Journeys Workshops) |
The Water Slipper is a solo paddler's delight. This slim, light canoe is ideal for exploring
quiet waterways, poking into secret marshy corners, and creeping silently up to catch a close view
of a moose or merganser. At 37 pounds, it can be picked up, carried, and cartopped with ease. It
responds well to a traditional canoe paddle or a double-bladed kayak-style paddle. Those who
believe a 12' canoe must look like a fat football have never seen the Water Slipper. Those
who have describe it as, well ... cute! With classic canoe curves tapering gracefully to a sharp
entry, its visual appeal is striking and unusual for such a small craft.
| Length: | 12' 3" |
| Beam: | 31" |
| Depth: | 12" |
| Bow Height: | 20" |
| Weight: | 37 pounds |
| Price: | $2100 |
| $2100 to build your own (see Maine Journeys Workshops) |