Short answer: the Classic ST is SOTAR's do-it-all self-bailing raft. Pick 10–12' for R2 and small crews on technical water, 13–14' for the all-around paddle or oar boat, and 15–18' for big groups and multi-day expeditions.
SOTAR introduced the first self-bailer back in 1983, and SOTAR says the 14' Classic has more first descents and World Rafting Championships than any raft. The ST keeps the same tube diameter all the way around, which gives it a stable ride and predictable tracking. Every one is built by hand in Merlin, Oregon. I grew up rowing our 14' SOTAR Classic, and it was the base of our 12-boat stack.
Every size side by side
| Size | Width | Tube | Weight | SOTAR base price | SOLWYRX preset |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10' | 62" | 19" | 75 lbs | $4,830 | From $4,830 |
| 11' | 62" | 19" | 79 lbs | $5,150 | From $5,150 |
| 12' | 70" | 19" | 89 lbs | $5,740 | From $5,740 |
| 13' | 76" | 19" | 97 lbs | $7,050 | From $7,400 |
| 14' | 80" | 20" | 106 lbs | $8,080 | From $8,430 |
| 15' | 84" | 21" | 116 lbs | $8,660 | From $9,010 |
| 16' | 90" | 22" | 126 lbs | $9,040 | From $9,390 |
| 18' | 96" | 24" | 151 lbs | $9,950 | From $10,650 |
Specs and base prices from SOTAR; preset prices from the SOLWYRX shop, October 2026. SOTAR's base boat comes with 2 thwarts. My presets include the standard maximum number of thwarts, which is why some sizes cost more.
Which size is for you
- 10': SOTAR calls it small but fierce, a favorite for R2 on tight, technical, low-volume rivers. Rated for 2–4 people and light enough to haul to remote runs.
- 11'–12': the step up for small crews. SOTAR says the 12' moves between solo exploring and team paddling, fits 2–3 people with an oar frame or up to 5 paddlers, and works for day runs and overnights.
- 13'–14': the all-arounders. The 14' is the legend: SOTAR says it handles big water and technical runs with confidence, with room for coolers, dry boxes and camp gear.
- 15'–18': expedition boats. SOTAR pitches the 15' for trips like the Grand Canyon or a weeklong journey, with a 1,864 lb load capacity. Go 16' or 18' for bigger groups and more gear.
Options that matter
- Colors: two-tone, solid or three-tone presets, from Red to Tan. Play with ideas in my Classic ST designer.
- Foot cups: none, front (+$200), stern (+$100) or full boat (+$700) on my presets. Worth it for paddle crews and aggressive water.
- Thwarts: presets include the standard maximum. Paddle crews may want 3–4.
- Fully custom (through me): SOTAR offers extra D-rings, extra thwarts, top and bottom chafe, a bottom wrap, and even custom length, width, tube diameter and rake.
Warranty
SOTAR lists a 10-year limited warranty on its rafts for recreational use and 6 years for commercial use.
How to order
Pick a preset on my site and it ships once SOTAR builds it, usually in about four to eight weeks. Want something fully custom? Email me and we'll design it together.
Quick answers
What size SOTAR Classic ST should I get? 10–12' for R2 and small crews on technical water, 13–14' for an all-around paddle or oar boat, and 15–18' for big groups and multi-day expeditions.
How much does a SOTAR Classic ST cost? SOTAR's base prices run from $4,830 for the 10' to $9,950 for the 18'. SOLWYRX presets run from $4,830 to $10,650 because they include the standard maximum number of thwarts.
What is the SOTAR warranty? SOTAR lists a 10-year limited warranty for recreational use and 6 years for commercial use.
How long does a Classic ST take to build? Pre-designed builds usually ship in about four to eight weeks once SOTAR builds them.
