Rockpool TARAN 16

The Taran 16 is the Taran 18 with the ends trimmed — same cockpit, same deck layout, same flat hull and plumb bow, 8% shorter overall. The design brief was explicit: do not sacrifice speed. It largely delivers. The 16 is within 5% of the 18 at cruising pace, and in wind and waves it often matches or beats it.

The trademark downwind handling is intact — the 16 accelerates onto waves cleanly and surfs with purpose. The high-volume front deck is retained, keeping the dry ride the Taran is known for. At 369 litres it carries expedition loads without complaint, and at 16'8" it fits in garages that won't accommodate the 18.

What you gain over the 18 is manoeuvrability, a livelier feel in surf, and easier handling on and off the water. For most paddlers choosing between the two, the 16 is the right answer. The 18 earns its keep at sustained high speed on long open crossings. The 16 earns its keep everywhere else.

Standard — Time-proven hand-laid construction using polyester resin, chopped strand and woven fibreglass. Robust, hard-wearing, and the right choice for most paddlers.

Premier — Vacuum-infused epoxy resin with carbon and aramid (Kevlar) cloth on both deck and hull. Vacuum infusion drives resin into the laminate at high pressure, producing a superior strength-to-weight ratio. Approximately 5 kg lighter than Standard at equivalent strength. Recommended for paddlers covering serious mileage or carrying the boat frequently.