The last few weeks and the warmer temperatures have been just amazing here on the Cape. These two kayakers looked like they were enjoying their paddle yesterday on the salt marsh up Boat Meadow Creek. It was pretty high tide so they really could explore.
It looks like we might have a few more days in the 60s, so enjoy it while it lasts!
Skin Boats
Credit: National Anthropological Archives
Kayaks have been used by the Inuit for thousands of years. Few sources of food in the harsh Arctic climate required traveling out to sea where some of the largest sources of protein live. A sturdy and nimble boat was essential for a successful hunt, so the Inuit turned to animal skins to build their desired design. Supple, sturdy, and waterproof, sealskin and walrus skin is an excellent material for the creation of boats. The skins were stretched over the light frames made out of driftwood or animal bones and then oiled periodically with fat obtained from either seals, walruses, or whales, to maintain the waterproof capability.
https://ocean.si.edu/human-connections/history-cultures/kayaks-origin-story#:~:text=Kayaks%20have%20been%20used%20by,to%20build%20their%20desired%20design.