Greenland Inuit Kayaks

This past week I met with a boat builder in Grand Marais to talk about a kayak that Greg and I were hoping would fit the purpose and needs of our Superior Dream trip.  The kayak is an Inuit skin on wood frame from Greenland.

A shorter version than one we would paddle.

It's a beautiful boat with a unique stowage system dating back many years.  If no pigment is used over the nylon skin the hull is transparent, letting you see the ribs, gear, and paddlers legs inside.  It certainly gives the appearance of a delicate craft and though it does demand a bit more consideration with rocky shorelines and stormy landings, according to both the course description and builder it is bomb proof.

This is a 6oz nylon, we'd use a 14oz

This kayak would add a uniqueness to the trip and we're very intrigued with the idea of circumnavigating Lake Superior with it.  We would be able to make a few simple modifications to it to allow for filming and the addition of a rudder.

With a dark pigment added

Obviously if we are going to kayak around The Lake, first and foremost we need kayaks!  Thanks to Mark Hansen and North House for taking the time to show me around and discuss kayak logistics.

We'll see what happens...