This year, Quebec takes center stage at the Open Canoe Festival. A land of powerful rivers and vast lakes nestled between mountains and forests, it has inspired generations of paddlers—and is also the birthplace of a canoe brand renowned for its durability and performance: Esquif Canoes.

Some rivers have become almost mythical for those who paddle in Quebec. The Mistassibi with its powerful rapids, the Rouge with its long summer descents, the Jacques-Cartier winding through the mountains, and the Bonaventure, famous for its crystal-clear waters. These rivers are much more than adventure playgrounds: they are places of transmission, where people learn to read the water, share techniques, and cultivate a common passion.

From its very beginnings, Esquif has grown in direct connection with this canoeing culture—a culture shaped by the land, by the sometimes demanding conditions of Quebec’s rivers, and by a community of paddlers who have never stopped exploring, learning, and sharing.

Over the years, the company has also sought to meet the needs of enthusiasts by pushing the limits of design and materials. The goal: to create canoes that are robust, durable, and lightweight, capable of supporting adventures on both technical rivers and long expeditions.

Today, Esquif canoes travel far beyond the rivers of Quebec and have established a strong presence on the international stage.

Come meet the team and discover the brand at the Open Canoe Festival 2026—and get a chance to win your very own Esquif canoe.