Outrigger Canoeing FAQs
Do I need experience to try outrigger canoeing?
Not necessarily. The guided Outrigger Canoe Tour is designed for first-timers, and your guide provides a paddle talk covering canoe history, culture, basic technique, and Polynesian terminology before launch. For the OC-1 Single Outrigger Canoe Rental, experience is highly recommended because these are high-performance solo crafts that can tip easily. First-timers interested in OC-1 should book a lesson first to build proficiency.
How stable is an outrigger canoe?
Outrigger canoes are quite stable thanks to the ama, or outrigger float, attached to the iako, or spars, which provides lateral stability compared with a standard canoe or kayak of similar width. OC-1 solo canoes are high-performance vessels and require active balance, especially in choppy conditions. Six-man canoes used for group tours and club paddles are significantly more stable, making them ideal for beginners and groups. Lake Dillon afternoon winds can create chop, so guides orient each outing to conditions.
What is the difference between an OC-1 rental and a guided group tour?
An OC-1 Single Outrigger Canoe Rental is a self-guided solo experience for experienced paddlers who want performance and freedom after a safety and paddle talk. The Outrigger Canoe Tour is a guided group experience in a six-man canoe. Your guide leads the group, shares Hawaiian cultural history and Dillon Reservoir facts, identifies surrounding mountain peaks, and handles navigation. No experience is needed, making it a great choice for families, small groups, and first-timers.
What gear and equipment are provided?
All outrigger experiences include a paddle and a personal flotation device. OC-1 rentals include a safety and paddle talk, and group tours include equipment plus a professional guide. Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses with a strap, quick-dry athletic wear, water shoes or strapped sandals, and a change of clothes. Wetsuits are recommended through June when the lake is cold, and guests should dress for wind.
How does the Dillon Outrigger Canoe Club work?
The Dillon Outrigger Canoe Club is a community paddling program at Lake Dillon built around outrigger canoeing in Summit County. Members can join morning and sunset club paddles throughout the season, use six-man canoes, and access discounted OC-1 and other rental crafts. The club honors Hawaiian outrigger traditions and welcomes all skill levels who want to paddle with a community. Book through the Dillon location page to join.
Where does outrigger canoeing take place?
All Stand Up Paddle Colorado outrigger experiences operate from Lake Dillon at Dillon Marina, 150 Marina Drive, Dillon, Colorado. The program is based at the flagship Dillon marina location, surrounded by the Gore Range and Tenmile Range.
Can I bring a group for an outrigger canoe tour?
Absolutely. The guided Outrigger Canoe Tour accommodates up to 12 paddlers per session and is an excellent activity for families, corporate team-building, celebrations, and other groups seeking a Colorado mountain experience. For groups larger than 12 or alternate time slots, contact the team at least 48 hours in advance to arrange availability.
Ready to paddle? Book your outrigger experience at Lake Dillon today.