Absolutely. It comes down to where you paddle, who's usually with you, how much gear you carry, and whether kids or dogs are along for the ride. Get in touch by phone, WhatsApp, email or the contact form and we'll talk it through with you.

Every canoe is a traditionally styled Canadian hull, hand-built in small batches here in Hertford. Because we build and sell direct, you get real craftsmanship without the transport and retail mark-ups — and you'll speak to the person actually making your canoe, built to your chosen size, finish, colour and seating.

Our two specification levels. S7 is our best-seller — ash timber gunwales, decks and detailing for a more composed, responsive feel on the water. S5 uses plastic gunwales and decks but shares the same hull and handling. Both paddle with the same stability and confidence; the difference is in the finish. Read more on the Our Canoes page.

12ft canoes are compact and manoeuvrable — great for solo paddling, an adult with a child, or faster-moving water. 16ft canoes add space and carrying capacity for couples, families, longer tours, dogs or heavy gear, while still paddling solo when needed. Both sizes share the same stability and responsiveness.

Yes, easily. It carries a little more and tracks a little straighter, so it's a great choice if you'll mostly paddle solo but sometimes have family, friends or extra gear along for day trips.

We rarely hold finished stock — every canoe is bespoke and built to order. Most builds are ready in 4 to 5 weeks, though spring and summer get busier. Once we know your model and spec, we'll give you a precise date.

Yes. Visit the workshop to see and try our demo canoes first — no obligation. We're not into hard sales; we'd rather you end up in the right canoe for you, even if that isn't one of ours.

Both. Most customers collect from Hertford, and we can deliver ourselves for a sensible price. We don't generally use couriers given the size and value, but you're welcome to arrange your own. Outside the UK or can't collect? Just ask — we can usually find a way.

Paddles, buoyancy aids, hoodies and t-shirts are ordered in monthly batches given the range of options, usually arriving 1–2 weeks after the batch closes.

Very little. The timber is triple-coated in hardwax oil, so there's no varnish to crack — just wipe it down, especially after saltwater, and re-oil every few years depending on how it's stored.