Canoeing’s venerable Prospector design has been called the workhorse of the Canadian North, for good reason. The symmetrical, shallow-arch hull with moderate rocker feels most at home loaded with gear in the boonies. Nova Craft’s 17-foot version remains faithful to the original icon, with the modern material touch of RoyalexLite giving it the heartiness of a Voyageur and the light weight (68 lbs.) of a true expedition craft. “Seems bombproof,” said one tester. “Surprisingly fast,” said another. “It was a true pleasure to paddle.”

Performance
As for hauling gear, it’s a true mule. Its wide body recommends it to those of us that like our aluminum lawn chairs and tables. And with its stability, it’s a good platform for kids and lots of gear. None of which compromises its maneuverability. “It would be a great boat where durability and tight maneuvering are at a premium,” said one tester.

Features
“The yoke of the Prospector looks like it came right off an oxen team,” one tester said, adding that the burly design reinforces the sense that this canoe will help you keep your cool even when things go awry. As for comfort, the airiness of the cane seats was a favorite for many testers, with one remarking, “It dries your shorts real quick.”