I just tried out the newest boat in the Hellman Canoes lineup, the "Slocan". This boat is an improvement over the regular Prospector line in terms of tripping. This is a 17" plus boat with good beam to carry bigger loads, and is also flared more in the front to shed more water than the regular prospector model. In addition to increased flare, this model is deeper in the ends and middle to carry more load(increased freeboard), which also allows better shedding of water in the river or ocean. I tripped on the ocean last year with a smaller 15'9" prospector with lower ends, and not enough flare. On a windy the prospector took on water over the front and sides in oncoming seas, and we had to do effective 'hip flicks' in order to keep the water out. This made for more dynamic crossings, but required a greater level of skill to paddle on the open water.

The Slocan carries almost twice as much load, and is tested in rivers and ocean to be very seaworthy.

Do you have any trippers you are happy with?

Scott Rookes.