Here is a link to a webpage demonstrating how to DIY construct a usable kayak from pretty basic materials. The claim is that with the necessary materials that the kayak can be built in about 4hrs. Via Four-Hour Kayak Boat Instruction Kit http://www.noahs-archives.com/noahs_archives/Four-Hour_Kayak_Boat_Kit.pdf
Here is an alternative Kayak construction option using PVC pipe and other easily obtainable materials. Duckworks - American Ingenuity
Thanks Chel. I think more of transporting goods than one man boats. One reason I went to 20 gallon barrels is that in a pinch they can be lashed to poles and make a mighty fine raft capable of supporting many hundreds of pounds.
No probs -06. Barrel raft or tarpaulin canoe....each have their relative advantages and disadvantages, and their optimum uses. It's more a matter of selecting the best type for the task and the materials available. Having the knowledge and skills to make either mode of transport gives more flexibility in constructing the best option for the need. Edit: Or you could just build a barrel trimaran, using tarp canoes as outriggers!