Since 1898, Old Town has been building canoes in Old Town, Maine, along the Penobscot River. Some of our oldest boats are still navigating the local waterways. But while our heritage and traditions have kept us grounded, our newest creations steer us in exciting directions, pushing the boundaries of performance and comfort with innovative materials and design. We’ve been carrying on the Old Town tradition of quality and craftsmanship for over a century, and part of that tradition means that we keep looking for new ways to build the perfect canoe.
Canoes for Different Adventures
- Recreation: Perfect for calm water paddling, these durable canoes offer stability for family outings or leisurely excursions.
- Touring and Tripping: Designed to carry gear while navigating both moving and flat water, these versatile canoes are ideal for extended adventures.
- Fishing and Hunting: Stable and reliable platforms tailored for fishing and hunting, available in various sizes and camouflage options.
Canoes for Solo or Groups
- Solo Canoes: Compact and agile, these canoes are designed for individual paddlers seeking ease of handling and transport.
- Canoes for 2 or more: Larger canoes suitable for two or more paddlers, providing ample space for companions and gear.
Designed for Performance and Built to Last
- Construction: Old Town utilizes both three-layer polyethylene and single-layer thermoformed polyethylene in their canoe constructions, balancing durability and weight.
- Length and Width: Longer and wider canoes offer increased stability and capacity, while shorter and narrower designs provide enhanced maneuverability and efficiency.
- Hull Shape: The hull design impacts performance; for instance, canoes with rocker enhance maneuverability, whereas flat hulls maximize stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are canoes best used for?
Canoes are ideal for calm lakes, gentle rivers, and family outings. They provide plenty of space for gear, making them popular for fishing, camping trips, and multi-day adventures.
How many people can fit in a canoe?
Most canoes are built for two paddlers, but larger models can hold three or more people plus gear. Solo canoes are available for one paddler. Always check your canoe's specs and ratings before use.
How do I choose the right size canoe for my needs?
Consider the number of paddlers, the amount of gear you'll carry, and your intended activities. Solo paddlers may prefer compact models like the Discovery 119, while families or groups might opt for larger canoes such as the Saranac 160.
Can Old Town canoes be used for both recreational and sporting purposes?
Yes, Old Town offers versatile designs suitable for various activities. For example, the Sportsman Discovery Solo 119 is tailored for both hunting and fishing enthusiasts.
What materials are used in Old Town canoe construction?
Old Town employs three-layer polyethylene for models like the Discovery series, providing durability and buoyancy, and single-layer thermoformed polyethylene for models like the Saranac series, offering a lightweight yet sturdy build.
Are there motorized options available for Old Town canoes?
Certain models, such as the Discovery Sport 15, are designed to accommodate small motors, enhancing versatility for activities like fishing and hunting.
What’s the difference between a canoe and a kayak?
The main difference is in watercraft design and paddling style. Canoes are open on top and traditionally paddled with a single-bladed paddle, while kayaks are paddled with a double-bladed paddle. Canoes generally offer more storage and are better for carrying multiple people or gear.
