Northern Siberia Virgin Rivers with Anfibio
In 2023, I embarked on an ambitious expedition through North Siberia, trekking and packrafting from Anabar to the Putorana Plateau. This journey required gear that was lightweight, robust, and reliable under extreme conditions. I relied on a set of equipment from Anfibio, including the Delta MX packraft, Vertex Tour paddle, Buoy Boy inflatable vest, Life Patch, and folding bottle. These items not only performed admirably but also enabled me to achieve a balance of weight and safety that was crucial for success in such remote and unsupported terrain.
A Perfect Balance for Remote Expeditions
Combined with an ultralight helmet from Petzl, the Anfibio equipment created what I believe is an ideal setup for ultralight paddling on remote expeditions. While not offering the maximum security of heavier alternatives, this combination struck the perfect balance between safety, robustness, and low weight. For trekking and packrafting in regions as unforgiving as North Siberia, where every gram matters, this balance is invaluable.
Anfibio Delta MX
The Anfibio Delta MX packraft was my trusted companion during the journey that involved trekking and packrafting from the Anabar River to the Putorana Plateau. This lightweight, robust packraft exceeded expectations, proving its worth in some of the most demanding and unexplored terrains on the planet. It was a step above the previous 2022 expedition where I used Delta to navigate a very remote yet still not virgin river. Here’s an in-depth review of how it performed and why it’s an outstanding choice for trekking-packrafting expeditions.
A Leap of Faith on an Uncharted River
The North Siberian landscape is a realm of the unknown. I ventured onto a remote mountain river with no prior records of packrafting activity. In such circumstances, you need a vessel you can trust implicitly. The Delta MX delivered. Its stability, durability, and adaptability allowed me to navigate the unknown with confidence. Despite encountering numerous sharp stones, submerged logs, and unexpected obstacles, the Delta MX handled up to Class III rapids with ease, earning its place as a reliable expedition partner.
Further Challenges
Navigating the Siberian river’s labyrinth of natural traps tested both my skills and the capabilities of the Anfibio Delta MX. The river frequently split into multiple branches, with side flows veering off at sharp angles. These branches often carried swift currents and were littered with fallen trees, creating hazardous obstacles. Avoiding them required rapid decision-making and intense paddling to maintain control and stay on the main course. The Delta MX handled this challenge superbly. Its stability and maneuverability allowed me to steer with precision, even in turbulent conditions. The lightweight yet robust design meant I could paddle hard without feeling weighed down, and the responsive build ensured I could redirect quickly to avoid dangerous currents and obstructions. This performance gave me confidence to tackle these treacherous waters, knowing the packraft would rise to the occasion
Portability: A Trekker’s Dream
When you’re trekking through rugged Siberian terrain, every gram counts. At around 1.5 kg, the Delta MX is impressively lightweight. Its compact packing size (30 x 15 cm) meant it fit seamlessly into my gear, leaving room for essentials. This portability is vital for expeditions where you carry all your equipment on your back. Even after hours of trekking, the Delta MX didn’t feel like a burden—a quality few packrafts can boast.
Robust Design: Built to Endure the Elements
Siberia’s rivers are punishing, but the Delta MX stood up to the challenge. Its 420 den Urethane-Nylon floor and 210 den Urethane-Nylon tubes feature multiple coatings for added durability. This construction proved resilient against sharp rocks, fallen trees, and abrasive riverbanks. The glue-free welded seams ensured that the boat held strong under extreme conditions, with no leaks or weaknesses emerging during the expedition.
Generous Space and Versatility
The Delta MX isn’t just lightweight—it’s spacious. With an interior length of 140 cm and a width of 38 cm, it accommodated my gear comfortably. This is a significant advantage for multi-day expeditions where you need to carry extra supplies. Its capacity to handle up to 150 kg of buoyancy was invaluable, allowing me to pack everything I needed without compromising on safety or performance. This space also makes the Delta MX suitable for a wide range of uses, from transporting a bicycle to paddling with a dog or child.
Performance on Easy and Moderate Waters
With a cruising speed of 4 km/h, the Delta MX proved efficient on easy-flowing rivers and moderate rapids. It maintained excellent maneuverability and stability, even with a full load. Its flat bow and parallel-sided hull ensured a smooth ride, making it ideal for varied conditions, from calm waters to moderately challenging rapids.
Additional Features and Accessories
The Delta MX comes well-equipped for expeditions. The pack strap, inflation bag, and repair fabric were lightweight yet practical inclusions that added to the overall convenience of the setup. Its six grab loops and attachment points provided secure options for strapping additional gear. These thoughtful features highlight the Delta MX’s focus on versatility and functionality.
Room for Improvement?
While the Delta MX excelled in nearly every category, one limitation is its relatively moderate speed on flowing waters compared to larger, performance-oriented packrafts. For the type of expedition I undertook, however, this tradeoff was acceptable given its portability and robustness.
Conclusion
The Anfibio Delta MX packraft is an exceptional choice for adventurers who demand reliability, portability, and versatility. It proved itself again, this time in the harsh, unexplored rivers of North Siberia, where failure was not an option. Its lightweight design, durable construction, and spacious interior make it a standout in its class. Whether you’re embarking on a trekking-packrafting expedition, bike rafting, or simply exploring new waters, the Delta MX is a packraft you can trust to perform when it matters most.
Anfibio Vertex Tour Paddle
The Vertex Tour paddle was an excellent companion to the Delta MX. Its light weight and four-part collapsible design made it easy to stow in my pack during trekking segments. On the water, it performed well, providing a smooth and efficient stroke even in turbulent conditions. Despite its lightness, it felt solid and durable, handling powerful strokes against strong currents and rough waters without any sign of wear.
Expedition Highlights:
- Portability: Its collapsible design fit seamlessly into my trekking gear.
- Durability in action: Withstood the physical demands of challenging waters.
- Ergonomic design: Reduced hand fatigue, even during long days of paddling.
Anfibio Buoy Boy Inflatable Vest
The Buoy Boy inflatable vest proved to be an essential safety measure without adding unnecessary weight or bulk. Weighing just 340 g, it rolled up compactly when not in use, making it ideal for a minimalist expedition. On calmer waters and moderate whitewater sections, it provided buoyancy and peace of mind. Its design allowed for freedom of movement while paddling and stayed securely in place, even in rougher waters.
However, it’s worth noting that the Buoy Boy isn’t a certified life jacket and requires user diligence to ensure proper inflation. For me, the weight savings and functionality made it the right choice for this expedition, but it may not be suitable for those requiring more robust flotation aids.
Expedition Highlights:
- Compact and ultralight: Easy to carry during long treks without adding bulk.
- Freedom of movement: Allowed efficient paddling without restriction.
- Secure fit: Stayed in place during challenging conditions.
Anfibio Life Patch
The Life Patch saved the expedition on several occasions. Midway through the journey, the packraft’s floor sustained damage from sharp rocks, requiring immediate repair in wet and cold conditions. The Life Patch adhered quickly and effectively, even on damp surfaces, and allowed me to continue without delays. Its no-tool application made it indispensable in such remote settings.
Expedition Highlights:
- Reliable in wet conditions: Performed flawlessly even in less-than-ideal environments.
- Quick and easy repairs: Ensured minimal downtime during the journey.
- Essential for remote expeditions: A must-have for handling unexpected gear damage.
Anfibio Folding Bottle
Although not directly related to paddling, the folding bottle was a practical addition to my setup. Its compact design made it easy to stow, and it provided a reliable means of transporting water during dry segments of the trek.
Expedition Highlights:
- Space-efficient: Folded compactly when not in use.
- Lightweight and practical: Simplified water logistics in challenging conditions.
