Wooden Drift Boats

The drift boat, also known as a McKenzie Dory or Rogue River Dory, is a small wooden craft based on the open water dory for use on river systems. Drift boats have a wide flat bottomed hull tapering into a narrow flat bow and high sides that run up to the pointed stern. The hull forms an arc from the bow to the stern (rocker) that allows the drift boat to easily spin from its center point. This rocker allows for greater maneuverability when negotiating rapids.

Drift boat origins can be traced back to the McKenzie River in Oregon in the mid 1900's where they were built for river trips through the rapids. The flat bottom allows the boat to slide over rocks and other water obstacles and the bow, whilst narrow, can accommodate a small outboard motor. Drift boats are rowed facing downstream which may seem unconventional, but this allows the rower to see any upcomming hazzards or obstacles. The stern forms a sharp point to deflect water to the sides which keeps the passengers from getting wet and allows the boat to cut through the water.

Drift boats were built for recreational purposes by those wishing to traverse river systems in a responsive boat. The rocker hull allows the drift boat to turn and handle better than the more modern rubber raft as it can turn on its center axis although drift boat generally only accommodate 3-3 passengers. While drift boats are a fairly safe watercraft, it is recommended to only tackle river conditions you know or have been informed are passable. If a drift boat was to over turn, their weighted timber construction makes them difficult right.