Portabote 14′ Alpha

The Porta-Bote is well-known globally, and needs little introduction. It’s essentially a folding boat intended for light boating applications.

When I first started seriously considering the options, I looked at every light / portable / collapsible option available. Inflatables? Why not a kayak? There were some massive, comfy yaks out there. What about co-owning? Chartering? What’s the cost like?

But the decision finally came down to 3 key considerations (specific to the situation in Singapore).

1. Objective of the craft – ultralight marine use, able to take four people for leisure boating.
2. Upfront cost of ownership (craft + propulsion + equipment + critical accessories)
3. Running cost (berthing membership, berthing monthly cost, fuel, repairs, range)

Once I had my objectives in order, decisions came easily and the subsequent action came quickly. Within 12 weeks of confirming the order, the off-white Porta-Bote 14′ made it onto the water.

Having gone through the initial run-in period and currently undergoing sea trials, I’m convinced that the Porta-bote was the correct choice for my applications. The craft’s fly weight construction allows it to

1. Launch from any beach (albeit requiring some set up time)
2. Slide into shallow, tight spaces typically accessible only to kayaks
3. Hit 15mph with a 9.8hp, 2-stroke kicker
4. Cover over 40km -50km with just 12 liters of petrol
5. Be taken down and transported without the need for a trailer or rather costly berthing

The craft has it’s share of strengths, quirks, issues, and limitations (which will be documented for technical reference), but on the whole, it suits my applications and provides loads of fun on the water.

Ignore the stupid grin of relief. We had just skipped across the bow of the Weserwolf which was bearing down on us.