From a random idea, to an 800 km long trip in a 3D printed kayak
Personal determination meets life size 3D printing technology with some help from Prusa Research
Less than a decade ago, during a casual meeting, David, an amateur rower, introduced to his friend Kuba an idea that initially sounded absurd. He proposed that they design and build a kayak and then paddle it all the way from Prague to Hamburg. As is often the case with spontaneous ideas, the topic gradually faded, resurfacing only occasionally.
However, nine years later, the idea returned in a concrete form. David and Kuba decided to bring the project to life and 3D print it. They turned to Prusa Research for support in bringing the project to life. The kayak model was developed in SolidWorks. Kuba and his wife prepared the complete design documentation, fully adapted for 3D printing.
The kayak was printed from PETG filament. It measured five meters in length and weighed just 20 kilograms. The production process took several weeks. The structure consisted of 23 individual parts joined together with 225 screws and sealed with silicone.
The testing phase quickly verified the initial assumptions. The bottom of the kayak required additional reinforcement with epoxy resin to prevent leaks. Despite these challenges, on October 10, 2025, the kayak officially departed from the banks of Prague’s Troja district, marking the beginning of the planned expedition.
The first kilometers revealed the harsh reality of the undertaking. After approximately 20 kilometers, the tip of the boat detached while Kuba was pulling it out of the water, remaining in his hands. It soon became clear that this was only the beginning of a series of technical challenges. Soldering irons, bitumen tape, and improvised marina repairs became part of the daily routine.
In the town of Děčín the struggles reached their climax. David had to make a difficult decision; blisters, exhaustion, and significant physical strain forced him to withdraw from the water stage of the journey. He took on the role of logistical support on land, while Kuba continued the expedition alone.
Nine days. Approximately 800 kilometers. The kayak encountered challenges such as river currents, wind, constant adjustments, and fatigue. Ultimately, the kayak reached Hamburg. Not because it was a rigid marketing objective from the start, but because someone once said, “Let’s do it,” and nine years later, they actually did it.
This story demonstrates that 3D printing technology has moved far beyond simple prototyping or display models. It can serve as a practical tool for ambitious, real-world projects, even those spanning hundreds of kilometers and ending in another country.
All photos courtesy of Prusa Research.
