This is the complete manual for Havspaddeln Saga, our inflatable canoe for up to three people. It shows you how to inflate the canoe to the right pressure, fit the seats, fins, storage nets and splash guard, and how to deflate, look after and repair it. If you want to print the manual, the PDF is at the bottom of the page.

Havspaddeln Saga specifications

Package contents

• 3 × removable aluminium seats
• 3 × adjustable three-piece aluminium paddles
• 1 × double-action hand pump
• 3 × storage nets
• 2 × large removable fins
• 2 × bungee cords (bow and stern)
• 1 × large backpack
• 1 × repair kit

The canoe has three valves, handles at the bow and stern, two side handles and a drain plug under the seat.

Inflating the canoe

We recommend using the included hand pump. An electric or 12 V pump also works, but do not over-inflate – too much pressure can damage the canoe. Choose a clean spot free of stones and sharp objects.

1. Unroll the canoe so that it lies flat with the floor facing up.
2. Unscrew the three valve caps anticlockwise.
3. Check that the valves are firmly seated. Insert the valve wrench from the repair kit and turn it clockwise until the valve is tight. This prevents leaks while pumping.
4. Set the valve button to the upper position (inflation). Press the button all the way in to switch between inflation and deflation.
5. Screw the hose clockwise onto the pump outlet marked OUT, and the other end clockwise onto the valve.
6. Inflate to 15 PSI, keeping an eye on the pressure gauge.

Tip: The pressure gauge shows no reading until the pressure reaches about 5 PSI. By then the canoe already feels fairly firm and pumping becomes noticeably harder.

Warning: Never loosen the valve with the valve wrench while the canoe is inflated. This can cause serious damage.

Pressure in cold and warm weather

Air pressure changes with temperature. In cold weather the air contracts and you may need to add a little air. In warm weather the air expands – let some air out so that the canoe is not damaged by too much pressure.

Fitting the seats, nets, paddles, splash guard and fins

Seats

Slide the aluminium seats into the canoe from the left and right side, then slide them into place so they sit in the middle of the canoe.

Storage nets

The storage nets attach with hook-and-loop straps and are easy to remove, for example for cleaning.

Paddles

1. Fit the paddle sections together so that the spring buttons click into the pre-drilled holes.
2. Check that each spring button has clicked firmly into place.
3. To take apart: press the spring button into the shaft and pull the sections apart.

Splash guard

1. Insert both corners of the plastic sheet into the attachment points on the left and right side.
2. When upright, the sheet acts as a splash guard and reduces the amount of water coming into the canoe.

Fins

1. Slide each fin into its fin box and make sure they face the right way.
2. Lock each fin by inserting the locking pin until it clicks into place.

Deflating and packing

1. Remove the accessories from the canoe.
2. Open all the valves (button in the lower position) to let the air out.
3. Set the pump to deflation mode and suck out the remaining air – this makes the canoe easier to fold.
4. Roll up the canoe from the end furthest from the main valves, so the remaining air is pushed out.
5. Pack the canoe and all accessories into the backpack.

Care and storage

• Do not over-inflate.
• Do not leave or store the canoe inflated.
• Do not expose it to heat and sunlight for long periods when not in use.
• Rinse the canoe with fresh water as soon as possible after use and let it dry completely before packing it away.
• Store it in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place to prevent mould and extend its life.

Repairing a puncture

The repair patch lets you seal small holes. Larger tears cannot be repaired – attempting it may make the canoe dangerous to use.

Finding the leak

If the canoe feels less firm, it may have a small hole. Inflate it to normal pressure and slowly turn it so that all surfaces come into contact with water. Air bubbles show where the hole is. Mark the spot with a waterproof marker and let the air out.

How to repair

The surface must be dry. Ideally repair at 18–25 °C and below 50% humidity – not in rain or direct sunlight.

1. Use the rectangular patch (8 × 12 cm) from the repair kit – it should be at least 5 cm larger than the damage. Place it over the damage and draw around it.
2. Clean the damaged area and the underside of the patch with an alcohol-based degreaser. Let dry for 5 minutes.
3. Apply three thin coats of glue to both the patch and the damaged area. Dry each coat with a hair dryer until the glue feels tacky before applying the next.
4. Place the patch without pressing and adjust if needed. Smooth out air bubbles from the centre outwards with, for example, a spoon. Remove excess glue with solvent.
5. Let the glue dry for 12 hours.

Work in a well-ventilated place, do not breathe in the fumes and avoid contact with skin and eyes. Keep glue and solvent out of the reach of children. If you need more material, we sell a repair kit for inflatable kayaks.

Safety on the water

Before you set off

• Always wear an approved life jacket and dress for the weather to avoid hypothermia.
• Check that all equipment is in good condition.
• Do not paddle alone or beyond your abilities. Canoeing lessons are recommended.
• Check the weather, wind, waves and water levels. Do not paddle in high water.
• Distribute the weight of people and luggage so that the canoe lies level.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.
• No alcohol or other drugs before or during paddling.

Bring

• A mobile phone in a waterproof case – ideally also a waterproof VHF radio
• Drinking water, sun protection, a hat and sunglasses
• A paddle leash in windy conditions
• A pump and repair kit
• First aid and rescue equipment

Rules of the water and staying visible

• Keep to the right (starboard) and give way to sailing boats.
• Keep clear of larger vessels and avoid busy channels.
• Wear bright colours, paddle close together and stay near the shore.
• Watch out for rocks, logs, jetty piles and sharp barnacles or mussels – they can puncture the canoe. Take care in shallow water.

Havspaddeln Saga FAQ

The manual as a PDF

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Open the manual (PDF)

Questions about your canoe? Call us on +46 8 740 05 05 or email info@langholmenkajak.se.