I have been thoroughly enjoying a Northstar Northwind 16 as a tandem boat. I'm wondering if anyone who has experience with soloing this canoe could provide some pointers.

With the asymmetrical rocker, do you sit in the bow seat in a reverse position? Or is it better suited to paddle forward from just behind the yoke with a kneeling thwart replacing the rear thwart? I understand there is no replacement for just trying it out, but just looking for advice.

Thanks!

Yep, with the asymmetric rocker the boat wants to have the bow in front. A kneeling thwart is an easy and good option. If you paddle with the boat empty you may still find it bow light since kneeling thwarts are usually a bit further aft than optimum to help keep you from getting trapped between the kneeling thwart and yoke. I have a Polaris with an optional center seat (and no yoke) and I love the set-up and how it paddles solo since the center seat is in a better position than a kneeling thwart. The Polaris is similar to your NW16.

thew2: "I have been thoroughly enjoying a Northstar Northwind 16 as a tandem boat. I'm wondering if anyone who has experience with soloing this canoe could provide some pointers.

With the asymmetrical rocker, do you sit in the bow seat in a reverse position? "

If it is to be primarily a tandem canoe this is what I have done and would do if I were you. Unless your running rivers it's usually better to have a shorter bow as to not catch as much wind. This is how the B16 is designed to be paddled solo and works great.

Thanks for the feedback - much appreciated.

Your not the guy in Omaha are ya? Haha. Just delivered one with a kneeling thwart a couple weeks ago.

Nope - in MN. Thinking I'll try making a kneeling thwart.