Gig Harbor Point Defiance 12' Kevlar Composite Rowboat – Recreational Dinghy,Tender

Lighter, Stronger, and Built to Last with Composite Construction

For Questions or Quotes Contact Dave:  864.367.6161 dave@lightasairboats.com

Built for Real Use, Inspired by Tradition

At Gig Harbor Boat Works, the focus is simple: build lightweight Kevlar composite rowing boats and small sailing boats rooted in classic, time-tested designs. These proven hulls deliver timeless style, real performance, and the ultra-lightweight strength of advanced composite construction.

Every Kevlar composite rowboat is handcrafted with intention—shaped not just by tradition, but by how people actually use their boats today. From the original 8-foot Ultralite to larger recreational boats and yacht tenders, each model reflects decades of refinement and real-world experience.

For over forty years, Gig Harbor has taken pride in building exceptional ship-to-shore tenders, dinghies, and lightweight composite boats that remain just as relevant today as when they were first introduced.

Each boat is designed to be rowed, sailed, maintained, and enjoyed for decades—not just seasons.

At its core, it’s the same idea that started it all:
simple, lightweight boats that are a joy to use.

Features & Performance

Inspired by historic salmon fishing boats that once worked the tide rips and rough waters of Point Defiance, Washington, this design is built for versatility and confidence.

This 12' Kevlar composite rowboat can be rowed solo or tandem, sailed with ease, or equipped with a small outboard motor—making it an ideal lightweight fishing boat, harbor tender, or recreational lake boat.

Born in the Tide Rips

In the early 1900s, small, efficient boats worked the demanding waters off Point Defiance. This modern Kevlar composite version of a classic rowboat carries that legacy forward.

With a wider beam and broader transom than the originals, it offers improved stability and increased carrying capacity—making it a more capable and user-friendly lightweight boat for lakes, harbors, and coastal use.

The Perfect First Boat

If you’re new to boating, the Point Defiance is an ideal beginner rowboat and small sailboat.

The hull is forgiving and confidence-inspiring. Under oars, this ultra-lightweight Kevlar rowboat moves efficiently with minimal effort. While it doesn’t track as aggressively as a Whitehall, its full keel holds a steady, reliable course.

Under sail, the sloop rig is smooth and predictable—perfect for learning. Add a small outboard motor, and it quickly becomes a capable lightweight fishing boat or composite tender.

A Boat the Whole Family Can Grow Into

Spacious enough for a full day on the water, yet manageable for younger boaters, this 12 ft Kevlar rowboat grows with you.

From harbor sailing to quiet days on the lake, from fishing to first rowing lessons, it’s a versatile lightweight recreational boat for families, beginners, and experienced boaters alike.

It handles chop well and performs reliably in a wide range of conditions with sensible use.

Boats That Create Lasting Experiences

For many lifelong boaters, the journey started early—learning to row, sail, and explore in a dependable small composite boat or dinghy.

These experiences build independence, confidence, and a lasting connection to the water—especially when using a boat designed for lightweight handling, stability, and durability.

Proven Designs Still Perform Best

The most efficient rowing boat hull designs weren’t created in software—they were refined over generations on the water.

These traditional shapes glide smoothly, track naturally, and deliver performance that still makes them some of the best lightweight composite rowboats available today.

Versatility Through Simplicity

Advanced Kevlar composite construction, efficient hull design, and thoughtful layout make this lightweight rowboat easy to own and enjoyable to use.

Simple to launch. Easy to row. Extremely durable and corrosion-resistant—ideal for fishing, rowing, sailing, and tender use.

Stability Where It Matters

True stability isn’t about how a boat feels sitting still—it’s about how it behaves when conditions change.

This design delivers confidence where it counts: underway, in motion, and in real-world conditions—making it a reliable Kevlar composite boat for lakes, bays, and coastal waters.

Specifications

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

See the Gig Harbor Point Defiance 12' Sailing & Rowing Boat Here

☑ 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.

Rigging the Point Defiance

Frequently Asked Questions