Design
Polar Star
Designed by Ray Klebba
Ray Klebba's long sea kayak, 18 ft by 22 in with a 16 ft waterline, and the boat that took the People's Choice award at the Minnesota Canoe Association builders show in 1999. He describes her as a cross between a modern sea kayak and the old Greenland boats: a narrow, moderately shallow hull with a deep V entry at both ends, a little extra flare in the bow so she lifts to a wave, and flare carried the full length of the hull for strong secondary stability. Rocker is 1 3/4 in forward and 1 1/4 in aft, and the seat sits aft of centre, an arrangement Klebba calls Swedish.
The details are aimed at rough water and rolling. A keyhole cockpit makes entry easy while keeping the opening small, a low back deck lets the paddler lie back for a roll, and snug thigh braces help hold the boat. Hatch covers sit flush on gasketed lips rather than perching on the deck. White Salmon Boat Works sells full size plans as well as basic and full kits for her.
What building a Polar Star actually takes
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Builds of this boat
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|---|---|---|---|
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| Greenland Night Heron | Chesapeake Light Craft | 18′ 0″ (5.49 m) | 0 |
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| High-Capacity Great Auk | Chesapeake Light Craft | 18′ 0″ (5.49 m) | 0 |