Our group and I have been going for 12-15+ years. We are to the point where we have used every gadget possible. It is almost a game as to what new someone can bring and make it useful. Has anyone ever used a Kayak Sail like this?
Do I need it? No
Would it be fun? Yes
What are peoples thoughts?
Kayak Sail

I've used the original Wind Paddle on northern Canada trips. They are effective for downwind canoeing, and we got 6.5 mph with heavily loaded PakCanoes in a good wind, but usually got less. They're fun, and give you a break from paddling. One day we got 20 miles via sail, another we got 15, but winds were obviously in our favor.

If it's fun, it's probably illegal. And I think it is due to permanent attachment.

Outside the BW, it could be a lot of fun.

The only sails that are allowed are ones that you hold on to. Fixed or attached sails are classified as a mechanical advantage and not allowed.

I would think that anything "designed" to be a sail would be illegal. Using a tarp, rainfly, ground cloth, rain jacket, etc. are probably in the gray area just enough to get overlooked.

Like MReid, I’ve used the WindPaddle a few times in Quetico. The “attached to canoe” issue is avoided by keeping your feet on the lower attachment straps while using your arms to keep the sail in an optimal position. Had a couple of great days with it, but it became a bit cumbersome to fold down and unravel in the bow. Winds weren’t in our favor often enough for us to keep schlepping it on future trips. The novelty of it wore off after we did an on-the-water experiment with one canoe using the WindPaddle and one canoe without. After about an hour of this, the WindPaddle was ahead slightly, but confirmed that unless the wind is constant, and at your back, it’s a luxury item. Granted it doesn’t weigh much, but we’ve determined it’s just not worth the hassle to bring on our trips anymore. YMMV
AdamX

Not legal in the BWCA, but having some fun with a sail in other places. Just a couple of times out last summer. Intend to do more this coming summer and get out in our tandem with it as well.




https://www.endlessriver.co.uk/sailing/solo-sail/

All kinds of interesting sail canoe rigs out there.

It's a dumb rule; I would bring it and use it if you feel like it will enhance your trip.

bumabu: "It's a dumb rule; I would bring it and use it if you feel like it will enhance your trip. "

Free advice ain't worth what it used to be.