The design principles

Unlike other boats in this class, which prioritise stability and convention, we wanted to create a dynamic boat, capable of keeping pace with the elite paddlers that feel restricted in traditional flat Paracanoe shapes. Our dream was to combine the narrow bow of a top-flight k1, with the narrowest waterline at the stern we could manage, to make the most efficient Paracanoe hull possible – all the while of course, complying with the stringent race rules.

The benefits of a fine bow are numerous, most importantly enabling the boat to slice through the water while offering the best possible paddle entry. A narrower waterline generally reduces drag and increases speed but at the stern of the boat, this is where the challenge really kicked in. The rules dictate that the hull must be a minimum of 50cm wide, measured at a depth of 10cm from the keel line. Typically this wide and stable dimension is placed somewhere close to the centre of the boat where it has a negative effect on overall performance. In contrast we settled on a radical stern-heavy design which has allowed the maximum beam to be moved right back and lifted out the water. Combined with a strong vee profile we have been able to reduce the functional width of the hull at the waterline and make it significantly more efficient. If you take a look at the hull form, and you can clearly make out the slim boat hiding within the wider rule-complying shape.

While the Fortis is less stable than other Paracanoe designs, it offers considerable secondary stability thanks to its wide stern, but when paddled correctly, this section barely touches the water.

(Fortis hull rotation)

Adaptations & customisation

We want to make customisation as easy as possible. We acknowledge that you may have existing complex adaptations which are designed to fit other seat and footrest systems. To assist, you we are able to provide the Fortis without fittings if you prefer, and it may also be possible for us to enable easy conversion to other exiting systems including Nelo and Plastex. Talk to us if you have any special requirements and we’ll do what we can to help.

A special thank you to paddling legend Jon White and The Royal Marines Charity, whose support made this project possible. As a mark of respect we have integrated the Commando dagger into our logo. “Fortis in Procella” – Strength in Adversity.