Full sized whitewater rafts?

[CaseyH]

Has anyone ever seen larger boats built from these materials … that can handle real whitewater? I am interested in building a 11′ x 5′ raft or frameless paddlecat with 20″ tubes.

The fact nobody has done it, leads me to believe I might be unaware of structural or other design limitations.

I’m not really concerned about weight. I am more excited about the ability to build a boat without toxic solvents and glues. Therefore thicker fabric, or a two ply fabric or extra reinforcement might be an option.

Thanks for any input!

Topic

[Matt (Admin)]

I’m not aware of anyone who has tried to make that type of raft using these DIY methods, but in principle it should work. I’m not sure where you’d find appropriate fabrics though… It looks like the Paddlecat is made from 1680D fabric, which is much heavier than any I sell.

[Author]

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