Building OARS’ Newest Dory: Cathedral in the Desert

OARS launched its newest Grand Canyon dory, “Cathedral in the Desert,” in August, 2021. The custom-built boat was handcrafted by master boat builder Sean Bothman and named in honor of the late OARS founder George Wendt. River dories are traditionally named for beautiful places or natural features that have been lost to development.

In a 1994 interview, George Wendt said he’d name a dory, “‘Cathedral in the Desert’ - one of the beautiful amphitheaters in the Escalante that was impacted, flooded, by Glen Canyon Dam...one of those places that has been very special to me over the years." It was a location that inspired him to start running river trips.

The new OARS dory will be used to bring guests down the Colorado River through Grand Canyon.

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OARS has been providing whitewater rafting, sea kayaking & multi-sport vacations since 1969 and we learned from decades of experience how to create magical nature-based experiences for you, your family, your friends or your business—stellar and diverse scenery, the beauty of a raft floating downstream, exciting whitewater rapids and captivating companionship.

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