Hog Island Boatworks, makers of the world’s first rotomolded polyethylene driftboat, has introduced a new “green” sit-on-top called the BFF, made from 100-percent recycled plastic.
“It’s big fun and friendly, and promises to be your best friend forever,” says company head Johnny St. John.
“It’s great for fishing, family paddling and all-around touring. But its biggest selling point is its environmental footprint – the hull is 100 percent recycled, protecting the environment where people use them”
Measuring 10’10” and weighing 50 lbs., the 300-lb. capacity boat employs a 31-inch-wide tri-hull design for tracking and stability and comes with a six-inch round hatch with drop bag to store valuables. It also comes with a molded-in seat-well and multiple-position footrest; aft-deck for cooler, gear bag and fishing gear; 1-inch gunwale eyelets for securing gear; bow and stern carrying handles; and molded-in cockpit drains. In today’s trying economic times, it also comes at price point retailers and consumers can afford ($299 wholesale; $499 retail).
PL staffers took it out on the Yampa and caught fish, waves and grief from our spouses after we returned home late for dinner from having so much fun.
Manufactured by Knoxville, Tenn.-based Rotonics (RMI), the new model came about after RMI and Hog Island devised a plan to reintroduce a select sit-in-top line using recycled linear polyethylene resin. “We are extremely excited about partnering up with Hog Island to bring to the market the first eco-conscious kayak designed to fit anyone’s budget,” says RMI Sales Manager Jason Toole. “This is a product that you can feel good about knowing you’re doing your part in preserving the great waterways that we’ve all come to love.”
Adds St. John. “Our design mantra has always been based on making performance roto-molded boats that go anywhere, and with their stable, easy-to-paddle tri-hull design, these accomplish that and more. It’s great to enhance your outdoor experience with ecological sensitivity.”
Specs: Length: 10’10”; Beam: 31”; Height at Bow: 16”; Weight: 50 lbs.; Max. Capacity: 300 lbs.; Info: www.hogislandboatworks.com.
About Hog Island Boatworks: After earning its flotation certification from the U.S. Coast Guard, Hog Island Boat Works, based along the Yampa River in Steamboat Springs, Colo., introduced its patented rotomolded drift boat in 2007. The company produces a full line of rotomolded drift boats, available with trailer, anchor and other accessories, as well as the new BFF sit-on-top. For more information, contact Hog Island Boat Works, www.hogislandboatworks.com, (970) 870-1660. Float and Be Happy.