Two-person kayaks like this one were probably developed during the period when Russians recruited native Alaskans to hunt sea otters and carry passengers.

This whaleboat was built expressly for The Mariners’ Museum’s small craft collection.

Between September and February, hunters use double punts in the Blackwater River near Britain’s North Sea coast.

The fast, turbulent McKenzie River requires a light, maneuverable boat.

The sampan serves two important purposes: it is a place where a family lives, sleeps, and eats; and it is a source of income as a water taxi.

Narrow canoes with a round bottom like this one need an outrigger for stability and balance.