Kayak vs. Umiak — What's the Difference?

A kayak is a small, narrow watercraft which is typically propelled by means of a double-bladed paddle. The word kayak originates from the Greenlandic word qajaq (IPA: [qajɑq]).

The umiak, umialak, umiaq, umiac, oomiac, oomiak, ongiuk, or anyak is a type of open skin boat, used by both Yupik and Inuit, and was originally found in all coastal areas from Siberia to Greenland. First arising in Thule times, it has traditionally been used in summer to move people and possessions to seasonal hunting grounds and for hunting whales and walrus.

A canoe of a type used originally by the Inuit, made of a light frame with a watertight covering having a small opening in the top to sit in.

A large open boat used by Yupik and Inuit people, made of skins stretched on a wooden frame, usually propelled by paddles.

Travel in or use a kayak

(nautical) A large, open boat made of skins stretched over a wooden frame that is propelled by paddles; used by the Eskimos for transportation.

A very light, slender, usually covered boat that has pointed ends and is propelled by a double-bladed paddle. Traditional Yupik and Inuit kayaks are made of skins stretched over a frame of wood or whalebone.

To go, travel, or race in a kayak.

To go or travel on (a body of water) by kayak

A type of small boat, covered over by a surface deck, powered by the occupant or occupants using a double-bladed paddle in a sitting position, from a hole in the surface deck

(intransitive) To use a kayak, to travel or race in a kayak.

(transitive) To traverse (a body of water) by kayak.

A light canoe, made of skins stretched over a frame, and usually capable of carrying but one person, who sits amidships and uses a double-bladed paddle. It is peculiar to the Eskimos and other Arctic tribes.

A small canoe consisting of a light frame made watertight with animal skins; used by Eskimos

Travel in a small canoe;