The Eskimo Kayak

Pacific Eskimos were known for developing the two-hatch kayak. Sometimes
the boat was enlarged into the three-hatch form, as pictured above, to
accommodate three passengers. Because of its speed and maneuverability,
the kayak was particularly effective fo r hunting sea otters. Harbor seals
and walruses, both important economic sources for the Eskimo, were also
harpooned from kayaks. Kayaks were made by sketching animals skins over a
wooden frame, also pictured. They were designed to resist capsizing. but
if a kayak did tip over, a skillful oarsman could bring it upright almost
immediately without letting in much water. Often a hatch would have a
jacket sewn into it which the hunter could wear, thus making the kayak
virtually watertight from all angles.