A few words from Tim Miller, President, Nova Craft Canoe

Paddle the True North
It’s been 20 years since my business partners Pat and Zoltan and I did what some of our friends thought was a crazy idea - to purchase Nova Craft Canoe. Back then the world was our oyster and Nova Craft had a reputation for quality designs and boats, although mostly within the London, Ontario area. I still remember the odd look on my cousin’s face when I told him about my new business venture. His only comment was “Why canoes?”

Indeed after 20 years I still get asked that question “Why canoes?” To be sure there have been many days of great satisfaction.

Our line of products, and our reputation, has expanded as our distribution continues to spread throughout Canada, the US, parts of Europe and to points beyond. Then again, like any small business, there have also been days of disappointment, too much stress and even tragedy. Through it all, however, there has always been this thing called a canoe.

What is so special about this ordinary, simple craft? Borrowed from the native North Americans, the canoe was instrumental in exploring and mapping of most of Canada and the US. Today it is still a Canadian icon and is a symbol used throughout our culture. At Nova Craft we say “Paddle the True North” because for us the classic Canadian canoe is a direct link with the past and our shared heritage, and that is worth preserving.

On a more personal note - the canoe has become the vehicle that has carried me over the last 20 years: my family grew and bonded closer on many canoe trips; my sons have worked with me building canoes; I’ve experienced the thrill and camaraderie of whitewater rivers with friends; and I work along side some wonderful people getting it all done, day in and day out. The canoe has been there for moments when I feel most connected; there is something about gliding across a lake as smooth as glass that I cannot describe.

This year we have introduced another Canadian classic, the PAL. After taking one on a trip through Algonquin, I can assure you that if you get a chance to paddle this gem of a canoe, you’ll quickly recognize why it has been named so affectionately.

Anyway, that is a little bit of what is behind Nova Craft Canoe and our philosophy. If you’ve never canoed, I hope you give it a try. If it has been a long time since you’ve gone canoeing, I hope you get back into it. If you just went canoeing yesterday, I hope you go again tomorrow. And mostly, I hope you take some young people outside to explore and appreciate nature.

Have fun and we’ll see you on the water, then you can tell me “Why canoes?”

What we are really made of ...

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CANOE FOR YOU

We endeavor to produce high quality products that give years of dependable service for all original retail customers. If any defects in material or workmanship are found we will repair them or replace the canoe at our discretion.  We will also provide ongoing repair services to our customers at a reasonable rate.  In all cases, the owner is responsible for transporting the canoe to and from our factory.

Whether you want a canoe for extreme sports, long trips or just paddling around the lake, selecting the best one for your lifestyle is an important decision. After all, we build them to last a lifetime. That’s why we’ve made it easy for you to choose by following these three easy steps:

1. Read Activity Chart here...
2. Match your selected activities with our models thoughout the catalogue.
3. Then click here for Specification Chart, choose your construction materials, trim options and select your canoe.