Why do some canoes have enclosed cockpits with seats on the floor?
These are kayaks, a type of watercraft originally used by natives of remote northern Canada, Greenland, Russia, and Alaska. The seating is designed to provide excellent stability in large surf, and the decks keep waves from washing aboard. Normally, canoeists kneel or sit on seats elevated above the floor (or bilge). This position is usually more comfortable when having to get in and out of the boat frequently.
