New to Packrafting? Start here.

Are you just getting into packrafting and wondering where to start? You're in the right spot. Learn about our favorite introductory models, the differences in each packraft series, and how packrafting got started. Plus more.

Let's get started with our recommended packrafts.

Each of the packrafts listed below are part of the Alpacka Series, but also fall into other series categories as well. These are entry level packrafts and are great if you are just getting started.

Expedition

The most versatile packraft in our lineup, the Expedition is fully adaptable to a multi-week Alaskan traverse, van life in New Zealand, or lapping the local whitewater run.

Caribou

Our lightest multi-purpose adventure packraft, the Caribou is perfect for backcountry and sidecountry adventures on flatwater and lightwater. Its comfortable, stable and easy to carry awkward loads like bikes and packs.

Gnarwhal

The fun hog of our lineup, the Gnarwhal is the most forgiving and easy to paddle whitewater packraft you can buy. Perfect for beginner to intermediate paddlers in lightwater to whitewater.

Mule

Whether you are big and tall, need a bit of extra space and comfort for a longer trip, or you are a hunter looking for a boat that you can easily pack into the backcountry but won't run out of space on the float out, we built the Mule for you.

What is a collection and what are the differences?

We have grouped our packrafts into different collections of packrafts based on their use. Some of our models fit into a few different series due to their versatility and what they were originally designed for. Below is a brief intro to each. Click on the series links and find out more and which boats are included in each.

The Flatwater Collection

A flatwater trip can take you from playing around in the backyard pond to a multiweek expedition on some of the most beautiful and remote rivers in the world.
Our Flatwater Collection of packrafts focuses on maximizing comfort, performance, and reliability no matter how big or small your adventure is.

The Lightwater Collection

Lightwater is the exciting splashy Class I-II whitewater that gets you laughing without the fear factor of Class III and harder rapids.
It often overlooked by other paddlesports, lightwater is incredibly popular with packrafters because the boats are so light, nimble, stable and forgiving.
Our lightwater collection is our favorite packrafts and accessories for your next lightwater adventure.

The Whitewater Collection

The Whitewater Collection is perfect for anyone looking to use their packraft in whitewater.
This collection features our cutting edge whitewater packrafts, each handmade in Mancos, Colorado.
From beginners learning the basics on Class II to experts exploring a new backcountry Class IV/V, it is hard to match the fun of paddling whitewater.

The Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Series

In the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Series we have curated a collection of packrafts designed for hunting and fishing.
Whether you are packing out a giant moose or accessing new fly fishing spots, these packrafts are perfect for your hunting and fishing trips.
The sales from this series support Backcountry Hunters & Anglers.

Getting Started & How-Tos

From inflating your packraft, to in the field repair, or an intro to your whitewater setup, to paddling and river navigation 101 tips, get started in with our education center tutorials at the link below.

>> Get started with our video tutorials.

The History of Alpacka Raft packrafting

It all started with a mother and son team, a trip in Alaska's Brooks Range, and an idea to make a better boat. This idea has brought us to where we are today. Check out our story and learn more about the history of Alpacka Raft.