Qajaqs Of Peter Strand - Handcrafted Western Greenland Style Kayaks

The frames of these qajaqs are of lashed and pegged Red Oak and White Pine, creating the perfect blend of strength and flexibility.

Inspired by the fast hunting craft used by the Inuit in Greenland, these Skin-On-Frame boats are built to custom fit the paddler. The White Pine and Hardwood frame is pegged and lashed together. A tough Ballistic Nylon cover is sewn on drum tight. The skin (cover) is made waterproof with varnish or other high quality marine coating of your choice.

These Qajaqs are designed and built using traditional anthropometric measurements of you, the paddler, and how you will use the boat.

After familiarizing yourself with a custom skin boat, you will quickly realize why the Inuit kayakers called themselves "Riders". The proven design has developed over millenia. You and the boat will become as one. You feel every nuance of the current, the boat moves when you move. The light weight and low volume make the boat easy to handle both on and off the water.

Adult boats are 14 to 20 feet long with a beam of 17 to 23 inches and weigh in the 25 to 35 pound range. A skilled paddler will find them to be fast. This is not an "entry level" boat, strong bracing skills are a must. The paddler must use internal flotation; always wear a properly fitted skirt and PFD.

A Skin-On-Frame kayak is not for anyone in the witness protection program, you will attract a lot of attention. Some people think the boats exude pheromone, but you will have to find out if that is true for yourself. Pick up a Greenland Style Paddle, get into your new Skin Boat and learn the different types of rolls. Impress yourself and your new admirers - be a safe paddler and advance the sport. Have fun in a boat that is designed and custom built for you and bears your name.

Qajags are very seaworthy and originally designed for open ocean travel. After no time at all, you and your boat will become one with the water.

Dewatering a Skin in Frame kayak is a topic that will always bring on lively conversation. Click here for a technique for de-watering and re-entry solo.