I plan to give a more detailed writeup about my experience with the Ultralight, encompassing everything from building to modding to hiking to paddling. For now, though, enjoy this crunchy picture as well as this imgur album for some highlights of my time with my new getaway car boat!
I was introduced to packrafts when looking for an alternative to an IK or inflatable boat for flat water – all the options I’d seen were too heavy/bulky or out of my budget. Packrafts solved problem one but were very pricey pieces of gear so I’m glad I went the DIY route. I chose the Ultralight kit since I valued its diminutive size when rolled and extremely light weight. I’m glad I did! All my gear for a day trip fits in a single small backpack + 10L drybag and I hardly break a sweat on even the longest portages.
Since this is primarily a flatwater/slow current vessel I modded it to take on a skeg. It really does make a world of difference in terms of tracking! Once I get the design down pat I plan to release it on printables.com with a host of options to choose from that should be suitable for both deep and shallow water 🙂
Thanks, Matt, for allowing me to fall in love with the water again!