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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 came to the 170 from a very different angle. I wanted something to haul my large family of under 10’s for day trips or overnight canoe camping trips. I wanted to get out of the city quickly and easily using public transport and I wanted to take my wife the kids and all the paraphernalia no one would carry themselves on a hike. I wanted the thrill of being on the water, but I wanted something stable and safe. (Please see my other review for the 165 which I use in a slightly different manner). The 170 excels. It deploys the same massive haulage capacity that made it’s name on first descents in the arctic, to carry up to five kids and two adults and their camping gear. And why not? It is an adventure in a bag.

I have three kids under 10 and bought this canoe to use primarily as a kid hauler, for times when I am mostly without another adult. I also live in Europe where we have super public transport. Armed with a folding cart, I can transport, canoe, paddles, overnight camping gear, and up to four kids. This canoe is fast, stable enough and absolutely perfect for family trips. On occasion I have had four kids and another adult onboard for simple day trips. Do not get me wrong. This is an awesome expedition craft, but it’s portability, pack ability, and light weight also make it a serious family canoe as outlined above. Using European trains, we avoid traffic, have fun and eat up the miles. I take a bending branches twin blade paddle “Impression” with me for times when I am alone with a canoe load of kids, no adult to help and the wind is bullying me about. See my other review for a 170 in family scenario.