Why are there two sets of Oarlocks?
Due to the efficiency of the Guideboat design it will only ever require one person to row it. There are two sets of oarlocks so that you can keep the boat trim while rowing. If solo, you row from the centre position and use the aft oarlock. If you have one or two passenger you row from the bow seat and use the forward oarlock. If you are rowing with small children you may want to sit them in the bow and stern and row from the centre.
Are Guideboats stable? How do they perform in "a little bit of chop"?
Guideboats are remarkably stable. Unlike a canoe where you sit high at the gunwhales, in a guideboat you sit low, lowering the centre if gravity. The lowered centre of gravity gives you a stable feeling similar to what you experience in a kayak. You can feel quite safe in choppy or wavy conditions as well as when dealing with wakes form passing boats.
Why are the oars so long?
Traditionally Guideboats are rowed cross armed. This coupled with the 8ft. oars makes for a very efficient rowing. More of the arms and chest muscles are used and less of the back muscles. This makes rowing less fatiguing.
For those who want them shorter 7ft. oars are available which can be rowed without crossing of the arms.
Can I get exercise from a Guideboat?
You get as much or as little exercise as you want. The hull design of the guideboat is incredibly efficient. You can cruise around in you boat all day and barely break a sweat, or you can put some effort into it and get a good workout. Just be prepared to row home. You can cover a lot of territory in a short time when your rowing. Most of all rowing is just plain fun no matter what you goal.
Where can I try a Guideboat?
We always have Guideboats at the shop. If you are in the Port Perry area we can and arrange for you to take one out on beautiful lake Scugog or the nearby Scugog River.
We have our boats out almost every weekend. Give us a call or send an email we may be in your area this weekend. Special arrangements can also be made for private trials at you home or cottage.
Phone: 905-982-0333
e-mail: dangallagher@carving.on.ca
How long will it take to get my boat?
We do at times have boat ready and available for sale. In most cases the boats are custom made to order. Kevlar and fibreglass boats are available in 4-6 weeks.
Wooden boats are also at times available for sale. Boats which are made to order can be delivered in the 12-16 week.
In all cases boats are completed in the order in which we receive deposits on the order.
What do I have to do to maintain my boat?
Storing your boat up off the ground and in the shade will make all the finishes last much longer. The Kevlar and Fibreglass boats require minimal maintenance. A yearly waxing of the hull is recommended. Decks and gunwhales should also be touched up once a year with a thinned coat of spar varnish.
All wooden boats require some maintenance. Should you choose to purchase one of our wooden boats we will discuss with you the best way to keep your boat looking new.
Do you deliver?
We do deliver. Cost is evaluated on a case by case basis. In many cases delivery is free of charge. You can also pick you boat up here at the shop. Guideboats are easily car-toppable. As long as you have a sturdy rack and can tie a good knot.
