Well, I finally did it.  I bought a used Souris River Quetico 18.5 Duralite.  I normally rent canoes over the past twenty-five years, since I sold my Grumman Canoe when I moved to Georgia. I liked the option of the middle seat so that I can use it as a solo canoe.  I figure if I can handle a 72 pound Grumman I can handle a 58 pound Duralite.  Now that I own it, can anyone offer advice on the pros and cons, care and feeding and how well I have to treat it to keep it in good shape and prevent it for being damaged?

starwatcher

Keep it out of the sun (or covered with a light-blocking shield like a heavy tarp) and also away from flourescent lighting.  I found out the hard way that flourescent lights degrade the epoxy just like sunlight.

I spray my canoes with 303 aerospace protectant.    (You need to Login or Register

Not sure how much it helps, but it sure can't hurt.

I own a Souris River Quetico 17.  Nice boat, and the folks in Atikokan thank you.

prouboy

I have had a SR Q 18.5 in duralite for about 8 years.  I keep it in a shed and wipe it down with 303 every year.  Great boat!  Mine did not have a 3rd seat so I built one and put it in where I can use when I want to.  I use the 3rd seat to solo and fish while the wife is still sleeping in the mornings.

Bruce

Thanks everyone for the great advice!

starwatcher