Best Canoes of 2024

The best canoes of 2024 may not be what you'd expect. Not new for 2024, many of these canoes have probably been portaging and paddling for longer than you or I. And they'll likely be around for generations to come! Scored based on reviews and popularity, below are the canoe crowd favorites for 2024:

Best Canoes of 2024

Prospector 16

16'
Length
36"
Width (in)
45–66
Weight (lb)
$1,899
Base MSRP

The Chestnut Prospector has probably been described more often in text than any other canoe, it’s just that popular. Our version of this venerable craft is faithful to the original. Since 1984, we’ve gone out of our way to continue the tradition so future generations of paddlers can enjoy this icon of Canadian history.

The Workhorse of the Canadian north, our Prospector 16’ feels most at home loaded with gear on a remote wilderness lake or river. While it is best suited for river tripping, it remains versatile enough to be a good all round canoe. With experience, the self-righting aspects of the shallow arch hull will become apparent and confidence levels will soar. Whats more, it provides a very dry ride in big waves and whitewater. It is simply the best all round wilderness tripping canoe available. Shown in Aramid.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Seating Configuration: Tandem
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Prospector 16 Reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
(34 Consumer Reviews)

I love my new boat. I paddled…

I love my new boat. I paddled an Old Town Pathfinder Royalex canoe for years, but had to retire it finally. I used it primarily for day trips fishing and nature watching, and… read full review

Three years now with my…

Three years now with my Prospector 16. I have found a comfortable posture and balance for soloing, difficult to do a good stable hard lean but I've found a way around that. … read full review

This review is for the Nova…

This review is for the Nova Craft Prospector 16 in Tuffstuff Expedition layup. Our boat was manufactured in 2017 and weighs 61 lbs. It is the ninth canoe my wife and I have u… read full review

Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman

11' 9"
Length
32.5"
Width (in)
49
Weight (lb)
$699.99
MSRP

Compact and fun to paddle, the Discovery 119 has been a long time favorite. Like the others in the series, this solo canoe is agile, stable and easy to handle. It's even well-suited for a double-bladed paddle. And thanks to our construction process, it's tough without being too heavy. Let the Discovery 119 help you explore new territory.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Additional Attributes

  • Comfortable and durable nylon web seats
  • Designed for solo paddling and well-suited for a double-bladed paddle
  • Durable, yet lightweight
  • Vinyl gunwales
  • Ash thwarts

Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman Reviews

4.2 out of 5 stars
(108 Consumer Reviews)

I borrowed this canoe for a…

I borrowed this canoe for a 5 day trip down the buffalo river in Arkansas. I'm an old whitewater kayak paddler so this little boat was super stable to me. I laid down a 1/4" … read full review

Great

Great

Stable, rugged, and easy to…

Stable, rugged, and easy to paddle. I have used this solo boat on 7 paddling trips so far this Summer. I purchased it “used” from an old timer that never used it and had a sh… read full review

Quetico 17

17' 3"
Length
42–43
Weight (lb)
$2,995
Base MSRP

The Quetico 17 has become recognized as the ultimate wilderness tripping canoe. If you paddle the wild places in Canada and the U.S., you will find dozens of them. That’s no accident! These canoes are ultra-light, incredibly tough and very stable. They handle like a dream under any load conditions. When you get caught paddling hard into the face of a headwind, you’ll be very glad you’re paddling a Quetico 17. It rides high on the waves and takes in very little water over the gunwales, a trait you’ll be sure to appreciate if you’ve ever paddled one of our competitors’ “lowrider” designs.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Seating Configuration: Tandem, 3+
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Quetico 17 Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
(31 Consumer Reviews)

I purchased a Quetico 17 red…

I purchased a Quetico 17 red canoe with the attractive Le Tigre pattern in June for the Humber River and its marshes in Toronto. I could not be more pleased with its exceptio… read full review

We just got back from…

We just got back from Killarney Provincial Park near Sudbury and rented a Souris 17. My wife and I just discovered canoeing and this canoe made us fall in love with this life… read full review

After many decades of tandem…

After many decades of tandem paddling in lakes and ocean bays/"rivers" in our Mad River Lamoille (18'6) we looked for a lighter boat that would provide the same speed and st… read full review

Inflatable Travel Canoe 16

16'
Length
38"
Width (in)
60
Weight (lb)
$1,999
MSRP

The World's First All Drop Stitch Inflatable Canoe has arrived!

Say goodbye to old rigid, heavy, unstable, tippy, nearly impossible to store and transport canoes! The Patent Pending Sea Eagle Travel Canoe 16 is an incredibly rigid (up to 10 psi), super light, sixteen foot, high pressure inflatable canoe that packs down small enough to fit in the trunk of a car!

The TC16 has accomplished feats well beyond reach of traditional canoes such as: 33% weight reduction compared to canoes of the same class, incredible primary and incomparable secondary stability (stable to stand in), bow/stern molds that slice through the water increasing track-ability, water entry and exit system designed to create lift and reduce friction, full length flat planning surface area, entire hull waterline length enabling paddling speeds up to 5 mph, full length double chine system to enhance tracking and increase stability. The Travel Canoe is incredibly portable, easy to transport and easy to set up.

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Seating Configuration: Solo, Tandem
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced

Additional Attributes

  • Plastic Bow and Stern Molds that cut through the water increasing tracking
  • 2 Movable and Adjustable Inflatable Drop Stitch Seats with backrests
  • Large Swept Backed Removable Rear Skeg for excellent tracking and shallow waters
  • Front & Rear Spray Skirts with Front and Rear Carry Handles
  • 3 Independently Separate High Pressure Drop Stitch Chambers for added safety
  • Extra layers of 1000 denier fabric on all sides for maximum strength and durability
  • 4 Open and Close Floor Drains
  • 6 D-Rings for securing seats at various locations
  • 6 Seat Bottom Securing Hook and Loop Strips to prevent sliding seats
  • 2 Conveniently located Diamond Patterned Non-Slip EVA Foam Deck Pads
  • 2 Center Carry Handles
  • 3 One-Way Air Valves

Inflatable Travel Canoe 16 Reviews

5 out of 5 stars
(1 Consumer Reviews)

These are my preliminary…

These are my preliminary thoughts as I have only had the tc16 for about 2 months. I'm no veteran canoeist, but I have taken my 15' dagger legend on a few class 3 runs. 4.5 st… read full review

Fox 14

14'
Length
32"
Width (in)
34–50
Weight (lb)
$1,619
Base MSRP

The Fox 14 is an ideal choice for solo paddlers looking for independent adventures on flatwater lakes and lazy rivers. Its shorter length and minimal rocker give this canoe a good balance of tracking and turning characteristics. At 14' the Fox is the perfect size for a relaxing evening paddle around the lake but still large enough to fit enough gear for a week-long trip into the backcountry. The narrow width makes this a faster, efficient design helping you cover distance with ease and its shallower depth catches less wind.

This narrower design also accommodates soloists who prefer cruising around using a kayak paddle. Slight tumblehome on the sides helps for easier paddle strokes and the shallow arch bottom gives the paddler a stable feel but still allows for leaning the boat over to paddle Canadian-style. Of course the Fox’s small size and light weight make it easy to get on and off the car by yourself. The Fox 14 will get solo paddlers into the tranquility of nature with a beautiful balance of ease and performance.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner

Fox 14 Reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars
(5 Consumer Reviews)

I've been kayaking for the…

I've been kayaking for the past 25 years and recently decided to get back into canoeing. I bought the Nova craft Fox 14 as I wanted a shorter, light weight solo canoe. The in… read full review

I purchased this canoe on…

I purchased this canoe on National Canoe Day!! Went for the Red Aramid layup! I have been loving this canoe so far. It is fast, maneuverable, and stable once going. Initial … read full review

I recently returned to…

I recently returned to paddlesports having had a sea kayak, and canoe in the past. With the help of my local retailer I selected the Fox 14 because I wanted a solo canoe for … read full review

Heron

14' 6"
Length
38.5"
Width (in)
69
Weight (lb)
$2,249
MSRP

The Heron is a multi-purpose canoe perfectly adapted to fishing and hunting activities. Light, stable, and quiet, it offers great load capacity. Its design allows it to be used with or without a motor. The Heron is the most versatile canoe in its category. With a foam core hull material, the Heron insulates you from cold waters and provides for quiet passage to your most secret places on lakes and rivers. Also available in Green $1999.00 USD.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Seating Configuration: Solo, Tandem, 3+
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Additional Attributes

  • Length: 4.4 m (14’ 6”)
  • Width : 96.5 cm (38 ½”)
  • Depth: 35.5 cm (14”)
  • Shape: Square Stern
  • Rocker: 7 cm (2 ¾”)
  • Gunwale: Vinyl
  • Colour: Camo, Green
  • Weight : 31.3 kg (69 lbs)
  • Carrying capacity: 364 Kg (800 lb)
  • Seats: Webbed seats, central yoke seat
  • Max outboard : 3 HP or electric equivalent
  • Option: Wood gunwale

Heron Reviews

5 out of 5 stars
(3 Consumer Reviews)

This canoe is ideal for…

This canoe is ideal for fishing on lakes and can comfortably handle waves up to .5m.It is stable,roomy,maintenance free and above all durable.You never have to worry if you h… read full review

I have been paddling…

I have been paddling canoes/kayaks for 33 years, sea-touring, white water, calm lakes and rivers; owned many different boats and materials. My most missed boat - the Esquif H… read full review

Bought the Esquif Heron Camo…

Bought the Esquif Heron Camo off a friend, and this is my very first canoe and never been canoeing before, i bought this mainly for fishing with my son. I love this canoe so… read full review

Fisherman

14'
Length
39"
Width (in)
36–49
Weight (lb)
$2,499
Base MSRP

This short, wide canoe is stable enough to "set the screws" to a 6 pound largemouth bass exploding on your top water frog or lay back and relax in as you watch a mid summer's night meteor shower. The slightly rockered bottom makes the Fisherman maneuverable, while the boat's shallow draft will get you into places other boats only desire to go. Keep it at camp or at the lake house. Kids and other light weight paddlers will feel secure in the Fisherman.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Seating Configuration: Tandem
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Fisherman Reviews

4.2 out of 5 stars
(9 Consumer Reviews)

Have used my Royalex…

Have used my Royalex Fisherman for around 15 years now. First, the word "glide" is not in this boat's vocabulary. Not made for that. But, for its intended purposes, it is … read full review

We bought a 1997 kevlar…

We bought a 1997 kevlar natural Fisherman with wood gunnels in 2011. Coming from rec kayaks, we were looking for a boat to allow my wife to go out with the dogs, either with … read full review

I have the kevlar version, at…

I have the kevlar version, at about 36 pounds, so it is a pleasure to portage. Whether tandem or solo, this canoe paddles surprisingly well, and has good glide. If solo and u… read full review

10' Traditional

10'
Length
38"
Width (in)
45
Weight (lb)
$1,149.99
MSRP

The traditional double ended Golden Hawk canoe is great for fishing, hunting, or any canoeing activity you want to enjoy. The Golden Hawk Canoe was inspired by the tradition of early wilderness explorers and modern day canoeing know-how. The unique full contour hull design, which contributes to stability, lets you feel at home on a mirror-like pond or raging whitewater. You are assured of fun and satisfaction for a lifetime.

  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
  • Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced

10' Traditional Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars
(8 Consumer Reviews)

I aquired a 10 traditional…

I aquired a 10 traditional canoe. I do lots of portages, hunting, trapping and fishing. It hauls me and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers around well.

I've had my Golden Hawk…

I've had my Golden Hawk canoe for about a year now, my husband and I love it! We have the 10' traditional model in blue, and live within a very short walk to the James River … read full review

Tried one last week-end…

Tried one last week-end (canoe renting) on a medium size creek with my dog. Just perfect!

Buffalo T-Formex

16'
Length
36"
Width (in)
76
Weight (lb)
$1,995
MSRP

The most durable & flexible canoes that exist. Buffalo T-Formex Canoes are suitable for any whitewater that will accommodate open-top watercraft. Buffalo Canoes want this to be a lifetime purchase for you. They have spent decades perfecting the Buffalo Canoe. They sell not only the best materials, but their knowledge & experience as well. Buffalo Canoes have been successfully paddled everywhere from Arkansas to Alaska, and have even been featured on the History Channel survival series "Mountain Men". There is no better boat for your buck than Buffalo.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Seating Configuration: Solo, Tandem
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Additional Attributes

  • All purpose canoe suitable for solo or tandem paddling
  • Perfectly symmetrical stern-to-bow design
  • Shallow Arch Hull
  • Blunt Entry Line
  • Straight Tracking
  • Predictable Stability & Maneuverability

Buffalo T-Formex Reviews

5 out of 5 stars
(45 Consumer Reviews)

I bought my Buffalo Royalex…

I bought my Buffalo Royalex Canoe (16FT) off a craigslist ad. The seller was from North Carolina and he was selling it for a very reasonable price. Mind you I live in Maine a… read full review

I wouldn’t even consider…

I wouldn’t even consider another 16 foot canoe. The Buffalo T-Formex is light, super durable and has a beautiful line. Every time I take it out, someone raves about how beaut… read full review

I LOVE it!

I LOVE it!

PakCanoe 170

17'
Length
34"
Width (in)
56
Weight (lb)
$2,310
MSRP

PakCanoe 170 is the wilderness work horse. It will carry enough gear for a full scale expedition and is the best alternative in shallow water situations.

  • Structure: Folding
  • Seating Configuration: Solo, Tandem
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Additional Attributes

  • Inflatable sponsons are placed in the sides between skin and the aluminum frame.
  • 1/4" of closed cell foam on the inside of a very tough coated fabric.
  • Aluminum parts are anodized to improve corrosion resistance and appearance

PakCanoe 170 Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
(11 Consumer Reviews)

Much has been written about…

Much has been written about this canoes chops as an expedition hero. However, as a father of a young family, living in Europe, where we have very good public transport, I ca… read full review

I borrowed a friends…

I borrowed a friends PakCanoe170 for the first time for a weeks camping trip in the Algonquin lakes and river. The wider body is very stable compare to my canoe sitting in m… read full review

I can't say enough about my…

I can't say enough about my PakCanoe. You should have seen all the people looking at me when I set up the canoe at the boat landing! It took me over an hour to set it up my… read full review

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