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Availability:
Estimated Arrival: Between Mar 13 and Mar 20. *ETA to the USA Only
The Wenonah Prospector 16 is a versatile tandem canoe based on the classic Prospector design. It is known for its stability, maneuverability, and ability to handle rivers, moving water, and light whitewater while still performing well on lakes and calm water.
For Questions or a Quote, Contact Dave: 864.367.6161 dave@lightasairboats.com
All Wenonah Canoes are handcrafted in their manufacturing facility on the banks of the Mississippi River in Southeast Minnesota. Each of their craftsmen pour dozens of hours of labor and decades of experience into each boat they deliver to their customers across the globe.
The original Prospector was a river-running boat known as the work horse of the North. This proven down river hull is our version of the classic design, and the closest thing to the original that money can buy.
It's a stable hull for rivers and streams - with ample rocker it's quick to turn. Because of the symmetrical shape of the hull, a solo paddler loaded with gear could make good progress by turning around in the bow seat and paddling it backward.
Features
T-Formex canoes are manufactured from multi-laminate sheets, painstakingly designed specifically for each model. All include a closed-cell, rigid foam core providing structure and buoyancy.
T-Formex canoes are incredibly tough and very affordable. This makes them the ideal choice for sportsmen, whitewater paddlers, families and kids, or anybody who wants a very durable canoe. These canoes are much lighter than polyethylene or aluminum canoes and can be built in nearly limitless designs.
Wenonah offers many models in T-Formex, ranging from cost-conscious touring and sport canoes, to robust whitewater assault canoes.
Wenonah Canoe Components
Specifications
Dimensions
☑ Length 16' 0" - (487.68cm)
☑ Gunwale Width 38" - (96.52cm)
☑ Maximum Width 40" - (101.6cm)
☑ Waterline Width 38" - (96.52cm)
☑ Stern Depth 17" - (43.18cm)
☑ Center Depth 13" - (33.02cm)
☑ Bow Depth 19" - (48.26cm)
☑ Rocker 1.25" - (3.175cm)
Ratings
☑ Efficiency 6.00
☑ Maneuverability 8.00
☑ Capacity 8.50
☑ Stability 10.00
☑ Seaworthy 8.00
Includes
☑ Hung (Bucket seat not avail.)
☑ Black Vinyl Gunwales
☑ Ash Yoke Natural Satin
☑ Curved Web Seats (Not avail. for sliding seats)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is T-Formex and why is it used for this canoe?
T-Formex is a durable multi-layer laminate material designed specifically for rugged paddling conditions. It combines a foam core with strong outer layers to provide excellent impact resistance, durability, and buoyancy. This makes it ideal for rocky rivers and demanding environments.
Is the Prospector 16 stable for beginners?
Yes. The Prospector 16 is known for its high stability and forgiving hull design. Its wide beam and rounded hull provide both strong primary stability and reliable secondary stability, making it comfortable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Can the Wenonah Prospector 16 be paddled solo?
Yes. Although it is designed as a tandem canoe, it can be paddled solo by sitting in the bow seat facing backward or by kneeling near the center of the canoe. This makes it a flexible option for solo trips when needed.
What type of water is the Prospector 16 best suited for?
The Prospector 16 performs well on rivers, streams, and lakes. Its rocker allows it to turn easily in moving water, making it well-suited for river paddling and light whitewater (Class I–III), while still tracking well enough for flatwater travel.
How much gear can the canoe carry?
The Prospector 16 has a high carrying capacity and is designed to handle two paddlers plus camping gear for multi-day trips. Its large interior volume makes it ideal for wilderness expeditions and gear-heavy outings.
How maneuverable is the Prospector 16?
The canoe features moderate rocker, allowing it to turn quickly and respond well to paddle strokes. This makes it easier to navigate bends, currents, and obstacles in rivers.
Is the canoe suitable for camping or overnight trips?
Yes. The Prospector 16 is widely used for canoe camping because it combines durability, stability, and a large load capacity. It remains stable even when fully loaded with gear.
What makes the Prospector hull design popular?
The Prospector hull design is valued for its balance of stability, maneuverability, and load capacity. It has been used for decades in wilderness travel because it performs well across a variety of water conditions.
How durable is the Wenonah Prospector 16 T-Formex canoe?
The T-Formex construction makes the canoe highly durable and resistant to impacts. It is built to withstand rocks, shallow rivers, and demanding paddling conditions, making it a dependable choice for long-term use.