About: Redwood Outriggers History

In 1989 Bob Cummings, owner and operator of Secret Harbor Boat-works in nearby Potter Valley, decided to stop by Catch a Canoe & Bicycles Too during a trip to the coast. He was impressed with the operation and invited Rick Hemmings the shop manager, to come visit and see a redwood outrigger in person. Rick was quite taken with what he saw when Bob removed the protective tarp. Bob appreciating his enthusiasm offered to loan him an outrigger canoe to take back with him—and to try renting it if the situation arose.

The unbelievable stability and easy foot controlled steering were an instant hit with all who paddled that first boat. The owner of the Stanford Inn Eco Resort and Catch a Canoe & Bicycles Too, Jeff Stanford, recognized the potential of this very different type of rental canoe and has provided the substantial funds for their purchase.

To date, Bob has constructed over 25 boats redwood outriggers exclusively for Catch a Canoe, each with it’s own variation on the theme.

(Click on the Redwood Outrigger Poster to expand.)

redwood outriggers at catch a canoe in mendocino ca - stanford inn and big river

“This is a must if you’re in the area and wanting something to do. We took out one of their outrigger canoes one Friday morning and it was so much more than I expected. We had a lot of fun paddling along looking at the scenery. We even had a seal swim along side us for about an hour. The whole process of renting and getting geared up was very easy. Mitchell and Brett were particularly helpful and answered any questions we had. I definitely will be back next time.” — W.W., Loomis, CA