Puffin & Arrow Folding Kayaks

As seen in Popular Science and Popular Mechanics

Pakboats Kayaks
Our kayaks have great paddling performance. The skin-on-frame design provides sleek and efficient lines with the speed and tracking you expect in hardshell boats.

New Arrows!
The new Arrow line is similar to Puffins. In fact, each model in the Arrow line corresponds closely to a Puffin. The Arrow A10 is like a Puffin Sport, A12 like a Puffin Kayak 12, A14 like a Swift, and Arrow Double like a Puffin II.

So, why a new line? The materials and graphics are different. The Arrow line is built exclusively with polyurethane coated fabrics and Arrow hulls have a "Carbon Look" print as well as a dramatic arrow design running the whole length of the deck. Unlike Puffins, all Arrows have "Carbon Look" hulls (see close-up below), and the decks come in different colors.

Arrows will be available in the spring of 2007.

And why should we change the material? There are some environmental concerns about production of PVC, and we expect growing pressure to provide alternatives. We are starting with introduction of the Arrows.

Arrows will be priced from $830 to $1195 depending on model. For more information on Arrows, please see Puffin info below.

Puffin Construction
Puffins are clearly the simplest folding boats available. The longitudinal structure has only three main parts: A keel/stems assembly that runs end-to-end and is anchored into the skin and two gunwales that are inserted into channels along the edges of the skin. The keel is hinged, and longitudinal tension is generated by straightening the keel. This happens gradually as cross ribs are installed. Each cross rib connects to the two gunwales and the keel. Side to side tension and the Puffin's stiffness is generated by pressurizing the air tubes that run along each side between the skin and the frame.

Once the hull is completely assembled, the deck can be installed (optional on Puffin Sport and Puffin II. Puffin Kayak 12 and Swift come with a deck, but can also be used without). To install the deck, install support rods that run from each end to the cockpit along the center line. The deck is hooked over the ends of the hull and attached with Velcro strips along each side. Drop in the inflatable seat, and you are done. Assembly really is just as simple as it sounds.

The simplicity has other benefits than easy assembly. With fewer parts the weight is reduced, and the packed size becomes incredibly compact. And the price stays low.

Great Convenience
Packed in its own bag, a Puffin can easily go with you on a city bus or inside an RV or car trunk. Two puffins can be packed together as a single piece of airline baggage. Assembly takes just a few minutes, and you are off for a day of adventure. If you prefer to leave the Puffin assembled it can also be carried on top of a car like a hard-shell boat.

Easily carried by one person!

The Puffin is by far the least expensive folding boat available. In spite of its light weight and low price, the Puffin is made of the same rugged materials used in Pakboats' expedition grade folding canoes to provide years of trouble free enjoyment.

Learn about our 4 Puffin Models under Which Puffin is for you?

Available in red, green, or blue. Recommended for up to 250 pounds (Puffin Sport, Swift & Kayak) or 400 pounds (Puffin II).