Looking to buy an Old Town Penobscot 16' in Royalex layup. Or something of similar size that can be paddled solo or tandem...not to be picky or anything, but also looking for something on the lighter side.

I have a red 17’ Penobscot RX I am thinking of selling. It has never been used and has not been in the water and still has all the factory stickers on it. If you are interested I can post some photos. Keep in mind that this boat in royalex weighs 60+ lbs.

Right, I know the Royalex ones are a bit heavy compared to Kevlar canoes. I will probably be using it in local rivers as much as the BWCA, so I'm thinking it's the way i want to go even though portages will be harder. Is it practical to solo a 17 footer?

I’ve done it (soloed) when necessary but 17’ is more difficult to handle the more wind you have deal with. I really wanted the 16’ Penobscot but this is what I found. I am almost 73 and until this year I was able to handle portaging 60-70 lb canoes. I am facing several medical issues that may limit or eliminate my ability to portage heavy boats. That’s why I may sell this boat.

Sorry to hear about your medical issues. I am 34 and just trying to get started canoeing. I have plenty of experience in kayaks and have been chasing whitewater (nothing too crazy, class 3 max) for probably almost a decade. My love for paddling has begun to shift to more of a simple love of being out on the water. Just want a canoe I can take out by myself or with a companion and get out paddling and camping.

Completely understand the love of just being out on the water, especially in areas without other people. For me this has meant Canada. Really sorry I couldn’t go north this year. As was said many years ago, “Canada, where the beer tastes stronger and the snow lasts longer.”

Keep looking, you will find the boat you want.

I paddle a Penobscot 17 solo with a seat I installed. (The seat is easily removed.) For your needs (especially in rivers), I’d recommend the 16, but the 17 will be faster and carry a bigger load on open water. Facebook Marketplace is a good spot to shop for these. Don’t expect sellers to include the model name in listings.

Good info thank you! Now have a lead on a Wenonah Adirondack 16', which seems like it may also suit my needs. Yeah I've come across that quite a bit on the marketplace where they aren't really sure what they are selling, or always seem to be selling it for a sister-in-law or cousin. Didnt hear back from one person as soon as a i asked for a picture of the serial number and/or "VIN".