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Availability:
Estimated Arrival: Between Jun 13 and Jun 20. *ETA to the USA Only
Lighter, Stronger, and Built to Last with Composite Construction
Request Pricing & Build Options: Dave 864.367.6161 dave@lightasairboats.com
Lightweight. Simple. Ready for Anything.
The Gig Harbor Point Defiance 12’ is a lightweight, ultra-versatile boat designed for real use—whether you’re rowing, fishing, exploring, or just getting out on the water.
Row it solo or with a partner.
Add a small motor when you need it.
Or keep things simple and enjoy how easily it moves.
This isn’t a specialty boat—it’s a go-anywhere, do-anything small boat.
Kevlar Construction – Lightweight Without Compromise
The Point Defiance 12’ isn’t just lightweight—it’s built with Kevlar-reinforced composite construction, the same material used in high-performance marine and aerospace applications.
What that means for you:
Lighter weight
Easier to transport, launch, and handle solo—no trailer required.
Exceptional strength
Kevlar adds impact resistance and durability far beyond standard fiberglass.
More efficient rowing
Less weight = less effort = longer time on the water with less fatigue.
Long-term durability
Resists wear, flex, and fatigue over time—this is a boat built to last decades.
Why Kevlar Matters in a Boat This Size
In a 12’ boat, weight makes a huge difference.
Kevlar allows this boat to stay:
Light enough to car-top
Strong enough for real-world use
Durable enough to keep for years
Most small boats force you to choose between lightweight and durable.
Built for Confidence (Especially First-Time Owners)
The Point Defiance is known for being one of the most approachable boats in its class:
Forgiving, stable hull
Easy to row with minimal effort
Handles chop and changing conditions well
Simple enough for beginners, capable enough for experienced users
It’s often described as an ideal first boat because it’s predictable and easy to control.
Versatility Without Complexity
This boat adapts to how you want to use it:
Row it quietly into fishing spots
Use it as a lightweight tender
Add a small outboard for convenience
It’s designed to be used—not managed.
Capacity & Practical Use
2–4 adults (up to ~630 lbs including gear)
Row solo or tandem
Stable enough for fishing, exploring, and family use
Small enough to manage easily—big enough to spend a full day on the water.
Ultra-Lightweight = Easier Ownership
Approx. 130–155 lbs depending on build
Roof-rack transport (no trailer required)
Easy launch and retrieval
This is a huge advantage vs heavier small boats.
Proven Design (With a Modern Upgrade)
Based on early 1900s salmon fishing boats used in rough Pacific Northwest waters, this design was built for:
Efficiency
Stability
Real working conditions
The modern version improves on that with:
Wider beam
Better carrying capacity
Composite construction
Specifications
A nimble, lightweight rowing boat that can be rowed solo or tandem with ease. Light enough for a roof rack, eliminating the cost and storage of a trailer
Fiberglass |
Ultralite Composite |
|
LOA: |
11’11” |
|
BEAM: |
58″ |
|
DISPLACEMENT: |
155 lbs |
130 lbs |
SAIL AREA: |
Main, 57 sq. ft. Jib, 28 sq. ft. |
|
Package Includes
Daggerboard trunk & mast step
Ultralite composite hull
Stainless steel keel rub strip
Reinforced sheer
4-point lifting eyes
White Hull, Grey Interior, Vinyl Rub Rail, Bronze Oarlock Sockets, Reinforced Transom for Outboard Motors
Optional Extras
7' Straight Blade Oars
The 7' Straight Blade Oars are built from durable, lightweight materials. These oars ensure long-lasting performance while remaining comfortable to handle during extended use.
7' Spoon Blade Oars
The 7' Spoon Blade Oars are made from durable yet lightweight materials. These oars offer excellent control, comfort, and long-lasting performance for an improved rowing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Use
Q: What kind of boat is the Point Defiance 12’?
It’s a lightweight, multi-purpose rowing boat designed for fishing, exploring, and everyday use. It can also be used with a small motor or a sail.
Q: Is this a good first boat?
Yes. It’s stable, easy to row, and very forgiving—making it one of the best entry-level boats for adults.
Q: What is it best used for?
Lake use, calm coastal water, fishing, harbor exploring, and as a lightweight tender.
Capacity & Handling
Q: How many people can it hold?
Up to 4 adults (around 600–630 lbs total, including gear), depending on conditions.
Q: Can one person handle it alone?
Yes. It’s specifically designed to be manageable solo, both on and off the water.
Kevlar Construction
Q: What is the boat made of?
It’s built using Kevlar-reinforced composite construction, combined with fiberglass for strength and durability.
Q: Why use Kevlar in a small boat?
Kevlar allows the boat to be significantly lighter while staying extremely strong, which is critical in a 12’ boat where weight directly affects usability.
Q: What are the benefits of Kevlar construction?
Lighter weight → easier transport and launching
Stronger hull → better impact resistance
More efficient rowing → less effort required
Long-term durability → resists wear and fatigue
Q: Is Kevlar better than standard fiberglass?
For a boat like this, yes. Standard fiberglass is heavier, while Kevlar adds strength without weight—making the boat easier to handle and more efficient on the water.
Q: Does Kevlar make the boat more durable?
Yes. Kevlar is known for its toughness and impact resistance, helping the boat handle real-world use over many years.
Weight & Transport
Q: How much does the boat weigh?
Approximately 130–155 lbs, depending on configuration.
Q: Can I transport it without a trailer?
Yes. It’s light enough to carry on a roof rack, which is a major advantage over heavier boats.
Rowing & Performance
Q: How well does it row?
Very efficiently. The lightweight hull and keel design allow it to glide smoothly with minimal effort.
Q: Is it stable?
Yes. The wider beam improves stability compared to traditional narrow rowboats.
Motor & Options
Q: Can I add a motor?
Yes. It can accommodate a small outboard or electric motor.
Q: Do I need a motor to use it?
No. It’s designed to perform well under oars, so a motor is optional.
Sail Option (Positioned Correctly)
Q: Does it have a sail option?
Yes, an optional sail kit is available.
Q: Is this a sailboat?
No. It’s a rowing boat first. The sail kit simply adds another way to use it when conditions are right.
Fishing & Practical Use
Q: Is it good for fishing?
Yes. It’s quiet, stable, and easy to maneuver—ideal for shallow water fishing.
Q: Can it carry gear like coolers and tackle?
Yes. It’s designed to handle typical fishing and day-use gear.
Durability & Ownership
Q: How long will this boat last?
With proper care, these boats are built to last for decades thanks to their composite and Kevlar construction.
Q: Is maintenance required?
Minimal. Composite construction means no rot, corrosion, or heavy upkeep.
Buying
Q: Who is this boat best for?
Anyone who wants a lightweight, durable, and versatile boat without complexity, especially first-time owners.
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Q: What warranty comes with the boat?
Gig Harbor boats are backed by the builder and covered for defects in materials and workmanship. Because these are handcrafted boats, support is handled directly rather than through a standardized warranty program.