Have you been searching for a canoe that combines rock-solid stability with comfortable seating for family outings?
The Old Town Guide 147 stands out as one of the most reliable recreational canoes available today, trusted by families and casual paddlers for over two decades.
Let’s examine every aspect of the Guide 147, from its durable construction to real-world performance on calm lakes and slow rivers.
You’ll learn exactly what makes this canoe special and get the complete details needed to decide if it matches your paddling goals perfectly.
It’s more than just a canoe; it’s a dependable partner for making lasting memories on the water.
History & Brand Legacy
Old Town Canoe Company began its story in 1898 in Old Town, Maine, where skilled craftsmen started building canoes using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
The company quickly gained recognition for producing durable, well-designed watercraft that could handle both recreational use and demanding conditions.
Over the decades, Old Town has continuously innovated while maintaining its commitment to quality construction and practical design that serve real paddlers.
These models prioritize stability and comfort over speed, making them ideal for families, beginners, and casual enthusiasts.
The Guide 147 stands as a modern classic within this lineup, combining traditional canoe principles with contemporary materials and features.
Features of the Old Town Guide 147
The Old Town Guide 147 is designed with paddler-friendly details that make it stand out among recreational canoes.
From comfort to durability, every feature contributes to a stable, enjoyable, and long-lasting paddling experience.
1. Seating & Comfort
Comfort plays a vital role in enjoying paddling trips, and the Guide 147 delivers with padded, ergonomically contoured seats that provide a comfortable experience.
Adjustable backrests let paddlers fine-tune their position, reducing fatigue on longer outings.
The spacious cockpit comfortably accommodates two adults, with ample room for gear or even a pet, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned paddlers.
2. Stability & Performance
The flat-bottom hull provides exceptional initial stability, giving paddlers of all skill levels confidence and control. Families, anglers, and beginners, in particular, appreciate the secure feel when entering, exiting, or shifting their weight.
While not built for speed, the Guide 147 tracks predictably and handles well on calm lakes and slow rivers, striking a balance between steadiness and performance.
3. Capacity & Load Handling
With a 900-pound maximum capacity, the Guide 147 easily carries two adults plus gear for camping, fishing, or day trips. Its wide beam ensures stability even when fully loaded, and achieving proper weight distribution is simple.
Families can bring along coolers, equipment, and supplies without compromising comfort or safety, making it perfect for extended activities.
4. Key Features & Specifications
Thoughtful design details set this canoe apart from budget models. Carrying handles at both ends make transport easier, while traditional ash gunwales add durability and classic style.
Adjustable seatbacks improve comfort, and the rugged polyethylene hull ensures durability.
Reinforced stress points and practical touches, such as drain plugs, highlight Old Town’s focus on reliability and user-friendly performance.
5. Portability
At about 82 pounds, the Guide 147 isn’t feather-light, but it’s still manageable with two people thanks to sturdy end handles.
Its balanced design makes loading onto roof racks or trailers more straightforward, making transport between home, water, and campsite easier.
Design and Build Quality
The Old Town Guide 147 offers a rugged yet beginner-friendly design, combining durability, stability, and easy handling for versatile paddling adventures.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Three-layer polyethylene for strength, impact resistance, and low maintenance |
| Hull Type | Flat-bottom for excellent initial stability, suitable for beginners |
| Length | 14 ft 7 in (4.45 m) |
| Beam | 38 in (96.5 cm) |
| Design | Pronounced bow and stern for improved tracking and directional control |
| Weight | 82 lbs (37 kg), manageable for two-person transport |
| Durability | Built to handle rocky launches and rough conditions |
A dependable canoe, the Guide 147 is built to last, offering stability and comfort for families, anglers, and recreational paddlers.
Where to Purchase
Finding an Old Town Guide 147 requires understanding that this model has been discontinued by Old Town Canoe.
Outdoor Retail Shops
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Specialty dealers like Lancaster County Marine (PA) and Mountain Man Outdoors (NY) often carry remaining stock or closeouts, with prices ranging from $949.99 new to$600–$800 used.
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Big-box retailers such as West Marine, Bass Pro Shops, and Dick’s Sporting Goods may occasionally have old stock or returns. Availability is unpredictable, so it’s best to call ahead.
Online Options: Local and International
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Sherper’scurrently lists the Old Town Guide 147 for around $949.00, though stock may sell out quickly.
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West Marine also has a product page for the Guide 147, but availability varies by location.
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Norfolk Canoes (UK) carries the Guide 147 and 160, though shipping to North America can be expensive.
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eBay (UK) frequently features used its listings, with prices depending on condition.
While new inventory is extremely limited, several options remain available for determined buyers seeking this popular recreational canoe.
Who Should Buy the Old Town Guide 147?
The Guide 147 is ideal for beginners, offering forgiving stability and comfortable seating for a confident, enjoyable paddling experience.
Anglers particularly value the stable platform for casting and fighting fish, while the spacious interior accommodates tackle boxes and coolers without feeling cramped.
Weekend campers and casual enthusiasts appreciate the generous load capacity and durable construction, which can withstand occasional rough treatment.
However, serious touring paddlers or those covering long distances regularly might prefer faster, more efficient hull designs specifically intended for extended travel and higher speeds.
Comparisons with Other Models
Choosing the right canoe often comes down to striking a balance between stability, space, and performance.
Here’s how the it stacks up against the Guide 160 and the Discovery series.
| Model | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guide 147 | Stable, nimble, easy to handle. | Less space & load capacity. | Families, beginners. |
| Guide 160 | Larger, higher gear capacity. | Heavier, less maneuverable. | Bigger groups, heavy gear. |
| Discovery | Faster, better tracking. | Less stable, skill required. | Experienced paddlers. |
The Guide 147 stands out as the middle ground, offering an easy-to-paddle, comfortable, and stable experience, making it the most flexible option for recreational use.
Maintenance & Longevity Tips
The Old Town Guide 147 is easy to care for, and a few simple habits will keep it performing for years.
- Rinse with fresh water after each use to remove salt, sand, and debris.
- Inspect seats, gunwales, and hardware regularly for wear or loosening.
- Tighten adjustable components to prevent wobbling or slipping.
- Minimal upkeep ensures lasting durability compared to wood or fiberglass.
With consistent care, this canoe remains a dependable companion, offering decades of reliable service and excellent value for recreational paddlers.
Final Thoughts
The Old Town Guide 147 delivers everything recreational paddlers need in a reliable, well-built canoe.
Its rock-solid stability, comfortable seating, and generous capacity make it a great choice for everyone, from beginners gaining confidence to experienced paddlers enjoying relaxed outings.
Built with durable polyethylene and thoughtful features, it’s perfect for family trips, fishing, or looking at calm waters with comfort and ease.
If you’re searching for a dependable recreational canoe that will last for years, the Guide 147 deserves serious consideration.
Ready to paddle out? Find your kayak experience the difference on the water.
