Finding Millie.

So, having secured the services of a good crew, it was time to obtain a boat for our tentative steps into open canoeing. After a quick look around it was apparent that Canadian canoes weren't cheap. £500 is a lot to spend if after a couple of trips we realised we weren't as into it as we thought we might be. After much deliberation it was decided that a cheaper option would be to build our own, using the stitch and glue method. Materials and tools were priced and plans obtained and much tea was drunk whilst planning our attack on the 6mm plywood. Before we had chance to purchase any of the afore mentioned tools and materials, an already built canoe was spotted on e-bay for around the same price as we would have to pay for the materials to build our own. So it was purchased and collected.

So the next day, before we had even repainted it, it was off down the canal for it's 'maiden voyage'. No seats were fitted so we were seated on the deck, armed with both double and single paddles. The trouble was, stability wasn't the canoes best asset and with two adults furiously trying to keep it upright, but with both of us seemingly leaning in opposite directions it soon became apparent that this canoe wasn't really suited for two adults, and if we persisted it wouldn't be long before this trial paddle turned into a swimming lesson. So I (Ralph) tried it solo with the double paddle treating it like an 'open kayak' and it was much easier to stay afloat. So the plan was agreed, I'd take the canoe and with all the spare space carry all the equipment and Loz would use his Kayak. So it was back home to give it a lick of paint and plan our forthcoming weekend. A nice forest green was chosen and a low seat and backrest were added and 'Millie Canoe' was ready to go

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