Continuing the discussion from Mike Galt Lotus canoes in 14' range?:
Hi all, this is the first time I have posted in Paddling. Last week (7/21/25) I picked up a Lotus, Egret tandem outside of Tampa. This canoe is in such good condition that it looks like a 2 year old canoe with no damage and the slightest of hull scratches. The person that I purchased it from was not the original owner and I credit the original owner or somebody else in line for taking such good care of this boat.
I just returned from a two day family trip to Rainbow River on the central West Coast of Florida where I had a chance to paddle it for the first time. I am unskilled to enjoy the rounded hull as it should be enjoyed but because of the 35 1/2 inch width, there was ample stability. I used it mostly solo, spun around with the adjustable front seat push towards the center, with an occasional grandchild also sitting backwards on what would be the backseat. We were a pack of 20 family members on this crowded river, thankfully on a Friday rather than the terrible crowd on Saturdays.
I cannot find the VIN number on my canoe. I understand they used to be scratched into the hull on the starboard Stern. But I could not find it any place on the canoe. Does anyone have an idea where it might be? I have thoroughly enjoyed reading all the posts about Mike Galt and his canoes and I’m honored to own one of these snippets of canoe history. I have included a few photographs.
Are the built-in loops on the floor for sailing? I’m assuming my woodwork is teak. I would like to varnish it rather than oiling. Does anyone have a suggestion?
My canoe, with the (heavy) adjustable front seat assembly weighs approximately 51 pounds. My bathroom scale is not the most accurate.
