Small Ship Models

If you’ve ever visited the Pacific Northwest and seen any of the Native American art, it becomes immediately clear that canoes are an integral part of the society. They were the lifeline that made fishing and other forms of livelihood possible, and as such, these canoes are often ornate, decorative, and crafted by highly skilled artisans. This type of art is also present in countries such as New Zealand, where the Maori canoes (known as wakas) were just as pivotal to their way of life.

Whether you’re a tourist or a resident in any of these areas, it’s possible to appreciate the skill and time that goes into these amazing pieces of functional art. And while it’s often not realistic to bring an entire canoe back to your home in order to appreciate the craftsmanship, many people choose to purchase canoe models. These are scale versions of canoes, and they fit easily on the shelf in your office or the nightstand in your bedroom.

A kayak can be understood as a human-powered boat with a covered deck and a cockpit where the rower sits. Sometimes, although not always, the cockpit is covered by a spraydeck or sprayskirt in order to stop water from getting on the individual in rough weather. They are generally first attributed to some of the Aleut and Eskimo hunters of North America, Greenland, and northeastern Asia. The kayak is often propelled by a double bladed paddle and steered with a rudder and pedal system.

Today, kayaks come in a huge variety of options and materials. There are light fiberglass options, and there are sturdier but heavier plastic versions as well. There are long, narrow versions with hatches to hold your gear, and these are often known as sea kayaks. They are ideal for more long distance travel. Shorter kayaks are also available without hatches, and these are known as river kayaks. They are meant to be taken down rapids and rougher waters. Whatever kind of kayaking you enjoy, you can acknowledge that passion with small scale kayak models around the home. When you can’t be out on the water, they are a great way to remind yourself of all your great kayaking memories!