ere at Nova Craft HQ there’s no canoe we field more questions about than the Prospector. Iconic, classic, versatile, ubiquitous. But why? Read on to learn what makes the Prospector the most beloved model of our line, plus answers to other Prospector FAQs
Key Features
- Our bestselling model: The Prospector is a timeless classic pioneered by the Chestnut Canoe Co.
- Adventurous: The Prospector’s primary function is canoe tripping. It paddles best while loaded and excels at hauling gear into the backcountry for weekend jaunts or extended trips.
- Versatile: Performs well on flatwater (lakes) and moving water (rivers, rapids) – the Prospector is the “multitool” of our line.
- Capacious: A deeper and wider hull design allows plenty of room for gear. Bring everything you need for a backcountry adventure!
FAQ
Why is the Prospector so popular?
The Prospector design is a beloved classic and by far the most popular canoe we build. Known as “the workhorse of the Canadian north,” this canoe was historically used for hauling goods on Canada’s original superhighway systems: rivers. Today, the lines of the Prospector lend themselves perfectly to recreational canoe trippers and expedition paddlers who want to spend extended time in the backcountry. The wide beam and depth of the Prospector hull afford a higher capacity and allow paddlers to bring everything they’ll need for adventures on the water. The generous beam also makes the Prospector a stable and comfortable canoe. The moderate rocker of the hull design makes the Prospector responsive enough to tackle moving water capably, while maintaining decent tracking ability on large lakes. Because the hull is symmetrical, the Prospector can be paddled solo or tandem. Ultimately, this versatility is the Prospector’s greatest asset. If you want to do it all: flat and moving water, solo and tandem paddling – the Prospector is the canoe for you.
What are some disadvantages of the Prospector design?
The Prospector is a canoe that is designed to be paddled while loaded. Because of its depth, when a Prospector is paddled empty, it tends to sit high in the water, making it more susceptible to being blown around in the wind. Counteract this by using ballast in your canoe when you’re heading out without a load. If you will never or rarely be carrying much gear in your canoe, consider looking at the models in our Recreational Series instead. Another potential disadvantage of the Prospector design is efficiency. Think of the Prospector like an all-terrain SUV — rugged, capable, and adventurous, but not designed to win a race. If you’re looking for an efficient design that will allow you to cross large lakes with ease, consider the canoes in our Cruiser Series. The Cruisers are the sportscars of our line, with sleek lines, straight keels, and narrow beams that resist wind and water drag.
Jim Baird with a fully loaded Prospector 17
Why do so many canoe companies build Prospectors? What’s the difference?
Today, many Canadian canoe manufacturers build a Prospector canoe. The original Prospector was pioneered in the early 20th century by the legendary Chestnut Canoe Company in New Brunswick, Canada, who in turn based the design off of the canoes of voyageurs and First Nations peoples of the region. Named for prospectors transporting minerals from mining and panning sites, the Prospector evokes their hardworking and intrepid spirit. The Prospector is an icon of Canadian history, and its design is well suited to today’s canoe tripper. Many modern day canoe manufacturers have interpreted its design, with varying degrees of faithfulness to the Chestnut classic. Nova Craft prides itself on a version of the Prospector that is faithful to the specifications of the Chestnut original. Some are more or less rockered; some are more or less wide, deep, etc. Compare the specification charts from various manufacturers to get a feel for which is right for you.
How long is a Prospector canoe?
Prospectors by Nova Craft Canoe are available in many lengths to suit your needs: 15′, 16′, 17′, and 18′. The most recent addition to this category is the Prospector 14 Solo model, introduced in 2024. To determine the best length for you, consider the following factors: trip length, number of paddlers, amount of gear, and type of waterway.
How much does a Prospector canoe weigh?
Your choice of material will determine the weight, strength, and price of the canoe, so be sure to choose wisely. We make the Prospectors 15′, 16′, and 17′ in every material we offer: from rugged SP3 plastic to our high-end Carbon-Aramid blend “Blue Steel”. The 14′ Solo and 18′ sizes are available in our full range of composite materials. Learn more about the materials we build here, or give us a call to discuss which material is right for you.
The latest addition to our Prospector line: the Prospector 14 Solo
