General FAQs

WHERE CAN I TEST PADDLE A MAD RIVER CANOE?

Most dealers will be more that happy to provide on-the-water demos of Mad River Canoes; please use our convenient dealer locator to find the dealer nearest you. It will also tell you about any scheduled demo days in your area where you can come and test paddle a variety of our canoes.

CAN I BUY A CANOE OR ACCESSORIES DIRECTLY FROM MAD RIVER CANOE?

Mad River Canoe does not sell directly to consumers. We have an extensive network of authorised Mad River Canoe dealers that are equipped to find and sell you the ideal Mad River Canoe to fit your needs. They will also carry the Harmony gear you need to outfit it. Please use our dealer locator to locate your nearest Mad River Canoe dealer.

I HAVE MISPLACED MY OWNER'S MANUAL, HOW CAN I GET A NEW ONE?

Your local Mad River Canoe dealer can get you a replacement copy at no cost. The owners manual is a valuable source of great information on getting started in canoeing, care and maintenance and even minor repairs. You can also download it online from the website.

HOW DO I CARRY LOADS IN MY BOAT?

One of the great features of canoes is the ease of carrying a variety of loads - people, dogs, gear, you name it. One of the key things to remember is that no matter what you carry you want to ensure that the load is evenly distributed front to back, side to side and that it is as low as possible. Another key issue is making sure that you are not exceeding the comfortable carrying capacity of the canoe. Overloading your canoe can dramatically alter its handling characteristics and therefore safety.

CARRYING PEOPLE

If you are loading people into your canoe the best place for them to sit is on the floor of the canoe either in seats directly on the floor. By doing this you keep the center of gravity low and provide a dry ride for your passengers. Small children should be placed directly in front of a parent.

CARRYING DOGS

Dogs love canoes! The key is to provide them adequate space to comfortably sit or lie down. Do not tie them into the canoe, if anything should happen you want to allow them the opportunity to get out and swim. A great recommendation, especially in rough water is a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for your pet.

WHERE CAN I GET THE LATEST PRODUCT CATALOG?

Our catalogs are currently available by visiting your local authorised Mad River Canoe dealer, or you can download it here.

WHERE CAN I GET INFORMATION ON OLDER CANOE MODELS?

For many of our discontinued canoe models from previous years, you can find information by looking on our archived catalogs page. Please note that many items found in the catalog are no longer available for sale through Mad River Canoe.

HOW DO I FIND THE SERIAL NUMBER ON MY CANOE?

Your canoe’s serial number is stamped on a brass plate located on the right side of the stern, under the gunwale. You should record the serial number in the space provided on the last page of this manual for future reference. Your serial number is essential to reclaim a lost or stolen canoe, and for warranty purposes.