Alpacka Expedition
- Luke
- Sep 14
- 2 min read
If you’re familiar with Smacking Paddles, you likely know what a packraft is. For the uninitiated, let’s break it down.
When navigating whitewater, kayaks are often the go-to choice. They’re solid, narrow, and nimble, offering excellent control in challenging environments. However, kayaks have their downsides: they’re heavy, bulky, and non-compressible, making them a logistical nightmare for accessing remote rivers, especially in places like Alaska. Enter the packraft—a lightweight, inflatable, and packable alternative to the traditional kayak. Instead of lugging a 30- to 70-pound boat, you get a 9-pound raft that fits into a backpack.
Of course, there are trade-offs. Kayaks still reign supreme for whitewater control due to their rigid construction. That said, packraft technology is advancing rapidly—take the Alpacka Valkyrie, for example, which is closing the gap. Packrafts also bring unique advantages. Beyond their portability, they can carry significant weight within their tubes, making them ideal for extended adventures.
Introducing the Alpacka Expedition
The star of this review is the Alpacka Expedition, Alpacka’s most versatile packraft. Weighing just under 9 pounds, it handles Class III-IV whitewater with ease and can carry up to 100 pounds of gear for multi-day trips. Its standout feature? The cargo fly zipper in the rear, which allows you to store gear inside the raft’s tubes, keeping it secure and dry.
Construction-wise, the Expedition is a tank. I’ve bounced it off sticks, rocks, and gravel without issue. Ironically, the only hole I’ve ever put in it came from a sharp tree branch while hiking with the raft strapped to my pack. Pro tip: if your packraft fits inside your backpack, keep it there to avoid such mishaps.
The Expedition comes in sizes from small to extra-large, accommodating a wide range of paddlers. What sets it apart in terms of control is the addition of thigh straps. In a kayak, pads and the boat’s design keep you secure. Packrafts, by nature, lack this rigidity, but the thigh straps anchor your legs to the raft, transforming it from a glorified pool float into a whitewater-conquering machine. The boat also includes a footrest, seat, and spray skirt for added comfort and protection. While self-bailing packrafts exist, in Alaska’s chilly waters, a spray skirt is a must to stay warm and dry.
Durability and Repairs
Though tough, the Expedition isn’t invincible. Minor punctures can be patched temporarily with Tyvek tape, and more permanent repair kits are available for bigger fixes. With proper care, this packraft is a reliable companion for years of adventure.
Final Thoughts
The Alpacka Expedition is a game-changer for accessing Alaska’s most remote rivers. Its lightweight design, impressive durability, and gear-hauling capacity make it an essential tool for paddlers seeking adventure off the beaten path. Whether you’re tackling whitewater or embarking on a multi-day wilderness journey, the Expedition delivers.
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