faltboat

watercraft

Also known as: Faltboot, foldboat

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Last updated

June 26, 2026

Quick Summary

A faltboat is a small, collapsible canoe constructed from rubberized sailcloth stretched over a knockdown frame. It is also known as a foldboat. The term "faltboat" originates from the German word faltboot, meaning "folding boat".1

Foldboating refers to traveling in a faltboat, particularly the sport of navigating rapids and cruising on swift water using this type of watercraft.2

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

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canoe
…the faltboat (German: Faltboot, “folding boat”) early in the 20th century greatly extended the use of the kayak for canoeists who did not live near water but who could easily transport the folded craft to water.
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…the faltboat (German: Faltboot, “folding boat”) early in the 20th century greatly extended the use of the kayak for canoeists who did not live near water but who could easily transport the folded craft to water.
Read More

canoeing
foldboat, all small, narrow, lightweight boats propelled by paddles and pointed at both ends. There are many canoe clubs in Europe and North America, and most canoes are used in touring or cruising, travel in wilderness areas, or wild-water sport, the thrilling and dangerous sport…
Read More
foldboat, all small, narrow, lightweight boats propelled by paddles and pointed at both ends. There are many canoe clubs in Europe and North America, and most canoes are used in touring or cruising, travel in wilderness areas, or wild-water sport, the thrilling and dangerous sport…
Read More