Oru Kayak HAVEN TT User manual

OWNER’S MANUAL
WARNING
All persons using this kayak must read, understand and follow
all instructions. Failure to do so may result in serious injury or
death. Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference and
provide it to anyone using this kayak.
US PATENT NO. 8,316,788
US PATENT NO. 10,843,772
OTHER PATENTS PENDING
HAVEN TT
WARNING
All persons using this kayak must read, understand and follow all instructions. Failure to do so may
result in serious injury or death. Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference and provide it
to anyone using this kayak.

Product specifications
Safety warnings
Assembly & disassembly
Proper care & storage
Transporting your Oru Kayak
Recommended usage
Gear list
Kayaking 101
Limited warranty
Warranty registration
Contents Welcome to the Oru Kayak community!
We’re a young company working to change how people experience the
outdoors. We designed the Oru Haven TT to make getting out on the
water simple, fun, and easy for families and friends.
This manual gives an overview of the Haven’s features— and
includes a lot of useful tips and kayaking know-how. Read on to learn
the basics of planning your trips, handling a paddle, getting into the
water, and staying safe. To take your experiences to the next level, we
recommend taking a lesson from a local paddlesports shop.
Happy paddling— we look forward to hearing about your
adventures!
The Oru Kayak Team
QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS?
Email us at [e-mail]
Visit www.orukayak.com and our
Facebook page to share stories,
connect with the community, and
stay updated on Oru Kayak news
and events. Use #orukayak to
share your own photos!
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

WWW.ORUKAYAK.COM 1
1.2 DIMENSIONS & CAPACITIES
Assembled
Length
Width
In case
Length
Width
Height
Weight
Capacity
16’ 1” (490 Cm)
33” (84 Cm)
34” (86 Cm)
17” (43 Cm)
29” (74 Cm)
41 Lbs (18.6 Kg)
500 Lbs (226 Kg)
Product Specifications
1.1 MATERIALS
& CONSTRUCTION
- Double-layered 5 mm
polypropylene hull and deck
with UV inhibitors
- Double-layered 10 mm
polypropylene seat and
bulkheads (NOTE: bulkheads
are for structural rigidity ONLY
and are not watertight)
- ABS structural components
- Polyproplylene and EPDM
rubber trim
- Heavy-duty nylon and neoprene
rubber fairings
- Nylon and stainless steel
fasteners
The Haven TT’s design is all about ease and simplicity. A single sheet of
double-layered polypropelene forms the hull and deck of the assembled
kayak, and transforms into the box. The overlapping flaps that form the
deck make for ultra-fast assembly and the open cockpit gives you plenty
of room. Internal bulkheads and two rigid floorboards add strength. The
adjustable seating configuration allows you to paddle the Haven as a single
or a tandem kayak, and the adjustable footrests let you paddle in comfort
whether you’re solo or with another. All of the loose parts, including the
Oru Paddle, fit into the Oru Haven box.
WARNING
DO NOT exceed your boat’s capacity
under any circumstances. Doing so
will adversely affect the kayak’s
handling and reduce its stability, which will
increase the chance of capsizing or swamp-
ing. Make sure loads are
distributed as evenly as possible, with
heavier items on the bottom and
lighter ones on top.
1

2 ORU KAYAK | OWNER’S MANUAL
BEFORE YOU PADDLE
• Consult a physician before you begin kayaking activities or
training. Make sure you are healthy enough to meet the physical
demands of this sport.
• Obtain training in the safe use of your kayak from a qualified
instructor and build your experience in controlled situations.
• Check the weather and water conditions. Oru Kayaks are
designed to be used ONLY in sheltered waters, on inland lakes,
or in slow moving rivers. They are NOT designed for white water
use. NEVER go paddling in strong winds, rain, thunderstorms,
choppy water, strong currents, flood waters, or where tides will
affect your ability to steer the kayak or return to shore.
• Strictly follow the assembly instructions in the Haven
Assembly Guide. If the kayak is not assembled correctly, it can
lose its structural integrity and collapse.
• Inspect the kayak, including the deck straps and buckles, and all
associated equipment (e.g., paddle) before each use for signs of
excessive wear or damage.
• Familiarize yourself with the body of water on which you will
be paddling. Determine whether there are known hazardous
conditions, such as low water levels or sharp rocks, and know
where you can get help quickly in case of an emergency.
• Consult and abide by all US Coast Guard regulations and state
Safety Warnings
Kayaking is fun and challenging but involves inherent risks
of serious injury or death. To reduce these risks, users of this
product must follow the warnings and instructions provided in
this manual and in the warning printed on the Oru Kayak and use
common sense.
Users of this product agree to accept the inherent risks involved
in this paddlesport activity and agree to follow all instructions,
cautions, and warnings carefully before and while using this
kayak.
To reduce these risks follow these rules:
WARNING
Kayaking can be physically demanding and
dangerous. Use of this product and participation
in the sport of kayaking involve inherent risks
of serious injury or death.
2

WWW.ORUKAYAK.COM 3
and local laws, regulations, and ordinances regarding boating,
equipment, and boating safety.
• Prepare a float plan and let friends or relatives know where you
plan to go and when you plan to return.
• Obtain certified first aid and rescue training.
USE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT
Always use a US Coast Guard–approved life jacket or personal
flotation device (PFD such as the Oru PFD). Read the PFD
manufacturer’s instructions and familiarize yourself with
how the PFD should be worn.
• Dress appropriately for your weather conditions:
cold weather and/or cold water can result in hypothermia.
Wear a wetsuit or drysuit if necessary.
• Carry an approved helmet and wear it when necessary.
• Carry first aid equipment and understand how to use it.
• Carry an audible signal device, such as a horn or whistle.
If possible, attach the device to your PFD.
• If additional outfitting is attached to this kayak, use
compatible accessories only.
• Make sure that all equipment and baggage is stowed
securely and does not impede your safe exit from the kayak.
WHEN YOU PADDLE
• NEVER paddle alone. It is best to have someone with you in case
of an emergency or accident.
• DO NOT exceed the kayak’s maximum load capacity, which
includes the weight of the passenger and any onboard
equipment and provisions.
• Avoid hazardous conditions, such as flooding, tidal changes, large
waves, fast-moving currents, and high surf.
• Only paddle in flat, protected water. This product is not
designed for use in fast water, rough water, or large surf.
• Never allow minors to use this kayak without adult
supervision.
• Never use or consume alcohol, drugs, or any other
substance that may affect your coordination, judgment,
or ability to operate this kayak safely.
• Never exceed your ability. Honestly assess your physical
strength, endurance, and paddling skills.
• Scout unfamiliar waters; remove your kayak from the water and
carry it to avoid unsafe conditions.
Read this entire Owner’s Manual for additional safety information.
Safety Warnings (continued)
2

4 ORU KAYAK | OWNER’S MANUAL
Assembly & Disassembly
See the Haven Assembly Guide that comes with your kayak.
WARNING
Strictly follow the Assembly Guide included with your
Oru Kayak. If the Oru Kayak is not assembled correctly,
it can lose its structural integrity and collapse.
Proper Care & Storage
4.1 CARE AND MAINTENANCE
With care and maintenance, your Oru Kayak will last for years.
To ensure this, follow these tips:
• Inspect your kayak before each use to make sure it is not damaged, and
that all screws are tight.
• Rinse off your kayak with clean, fresh water after each use, especially
after paddling in salt water.
• Make sure water does not collect inside the kayak case after use.
• Some water may collect inside the plastic corrugations. To let it escape,
flip the unfolded kayak upside down to let it drain out.
• For additional cleaning, use general-purpose cleaning spray with a soft,
non-abrasive rag or sponge.
• In case of serious damage or punctures, email us at
[e-mail]. Please include photos of the issue and
your HIN number for faster resolution.
4.2 STORAGE
Store your Oru Kayak in its box form, indoors, away from direct
sunlight and heat sources. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause
plastics to discolor or become brittle.
3 4

WWW.ORUKAYAK.COM 5
Transporting Your Haven TT
The Haven TT is compact and light. Take advantage of this by lifting
rather than dragging it in order to avoid scratching the bottom of the
kayak.
• Carry the box with the shoulder strap for short trips. The weight can be
shared if two paddlers carry the boxed kayak via the underside of the
floorboard lid on either side of the boxed kayak.
• DO NOT carry your Oru Kayak on top of a car or trailer. If
transporting in a car, fold it into its box form and stash it inside.
• The assembled, empty kayak can be carried by two people, using the
fairing handles at the ends.
Recommended Usage
The Haven is designed to be used ONLY in sheltered flat waters,
lakes, and slow-moving rivers. It is NOT designed for fast-moving water,
rough water, or surf.
The Oru Kayak is a recreational kayak and does not have waterproof
bulkheads. If it capsizes, the entire kayak will fill with water and
can sink.
• Whenever possible, enter the Haven from a dock or a place where the
kayak is floating in the water. If beach landings or launches are required,
choose a location with smooth sand or mud to minimize abrasion.
• Use water displacement devices if you are paddling on open water.
• DO NOT scrape or drag the kayak, especially on sharp surfaces.
• DO NOT use or fold your Oru Kayak in air temperatures below
freezing (32°F/0°C). The kayak’s plastic hull can become brittle and
crack at temperatures below freezing.
56
WARNING
The Haven is designed to be used ONLY in sheltered flat
waters, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. It is NOT designed for
fast-moving water, rough water, or large surf.
WARNING
Do NOT carry the kayak with two people by the fairings if it is
loaded with gear – this can lead to stress and structural failure
in the cockpit area.

6 ORU KAYAK | OWNER’S MANUAL
Gear List
The following is a list of required or useful items that can be found at
www.orukayak.com, your local kayak shop, or through other online
retailers.
7.1 REQUIRED GEAR
• PFD (personal flotation device such as a life jacket). This must be US
Coast Guard approved (or approved by the relevant agency in other
countries), such as the Oru PFD, and must be worn at all times while
kayaking.
• Paddle. Kayaks use a double-bladed paddle like the Oru Paddle or Oru
Carbon Paddle.
• A horn or whistle. US Coast Guard regulations require an audible signal
device to be used in all watercraft. Attach the device to
your PFD.
7.2 HIGHLY RECOMMENDED GEAR
• First aid kit
• Phone or other communication device. Devices not made for marine use
should be kept in a waterproof drybag.
• Appropriate clothing, depending on weather and conditions. Always be
aware of hypothermia risks and bring extra clothing. For short trips
and casual paddling, wear thermal clothing made of synthetic fabrics or
wool.
• Bailing sponge
• Bilge pump
• Food and plenty of drinking water
• Maps and compass
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, etc.)
7

WWW.ORUKAYAK.COM 7
Kayaking 101
All users of this kayak should obtain qualified instruction to learn proper
paddling technique, water safety, and first aid before using this kayak.
This manual is not intended to provide complete training on all aspects of
kayaking. The following tips, however, are provided to get you started.
8.1 ENTERING & EXITING A KAYAK SOLO
For all methods of entry and exit, be aware of water and weather
conditions; nothing will knock you off balance like an unexpected wave.
Different types of entries are described below. To exit the
kayak, perform the entry steps in reverse.
From a high dock or boat:
1. Float the kayak alongside the dock.
2. Sit down on the dock.
3. Place your paddle nearby so you can reach it once you are
in the kayak.
4. Place both feet in the kayak.
5. With both hands on the dock, lower yourself into the kayak. Hold on
to the dock to maintain stability; keep your center of gravity low as
you enter the kayak, and slide into a sitting position. DO NOT stand
up in the kayak at any point.
From a low dock or platform:
1. Float the kayak alongside the dock.
2. Place the paddle across the cockpit and dock, just behind the
backrest.
3. Sit down on the dock next to the boat, in front of the paddle.
4. Place one hand on the paddle and the cockpit where they meet,
gripping them together tightly.
5. Place the palm of your other hand on top of the paddle on the dock.
Do not grab the paddle; you will smash your fingers.
6. Swing your legs into the kayak.
7. Lower yourself into the seat. The end of the paddle braced
against the dock will keep the kayak stable and prevent it
from drifting as you enter.
From a beach:
1. Make sure the kayak is floating in at least six inches of water.
2. Place one hand on the cockpit, and keeping a low center of gravity,
gently step one foot and then the other into the center
of the floorboard.
4. Lower yourself into the seat.
5. Start paddling.
8

8 ORU KAYAK | OWNER’S MANUAL
Kayaking 101(continued)
All users of this kayak should obtain qualified instruction to learn proper
paddling technique, water safety, and first aid before using this kayak.
This manual is not intended to provide complete training on all aspects of
kayaking. The following tips, however, are provided to get you started.
8.2 ENTERING & EXITING THE KAYAK IN TANDEM
Again, for all methods of entry and exit, be aware of water and weather
conditions; nothing will knock you off balance like an unexpected wave.
Different types of entries with a partner are described below. To exit the
kayak, perform the entry steps in reverse.
From a high dock or boat:
1. Float the kayak alongside the dock.
2. The back seat paddler should enter first. Sit down on the dock.
3. Place your paddle nearby so you can reach it or hand it to your
partner to pass to you once you are in the kayak.
4. Place both feet in the kayak.
5. With both hands on the dock, lower yourself into the kayak. Hold on
to the dock to maintain stability and keep your center of gravity low
as you enter the kayak. Slide into a sitting position. DO NOT stand
up in the kayak at any point.
8
6. If possible hold on to the dock to steady the kayak for your partner
to enter.
7. Entering last as the front seat paddler, pass your paddle to your
partner in the boat. Sit down on the dock to enter the front seat.
8. Repeat steps 4 & 5.
From a low dock or platform:
1. Float the kayak alongside the dock.
2. The back seat paddler should enter first.
3. Place the paddle across the cockpit and dock, just behind the
backrest.
4. Sit down on the dock next to the boat, in front of the paddle.
5. Place one hand on the paddle and the cockpit where they meet and
grip them together tightly.
6. Place the palm of your other hand on top of the paddle on the dock.
Do not grab the paddle; you will smash your fingers.
7. Swing your legs into the kayak.
8. Lower yourself into the seat. The end of the paddle braced
against the dock will keep the kayak stable and prevent it
from drifting as you enter.

WWW.ORUKAYAK.COM 9
From a beach:
1. Make sure the kayak is floating in at least six inches of water.
2. The back seat paddler should enter first.
3. Place one hand on the cockpit and keeping a low center of
gravity, gently step one foot and then the other into the center
of the floorboard.
4. Lower yourself into the seat.
5. Entering last as the front seat paddler, repeat steps 3-4.
6. Start paddling.
9. If possible hold on to the dock to steady the kayak for your partner to
enter.
10. Entering last as the front seat paddler, repeat steps 3-8.
8.3 SITTING IN A KAYAK
The proper sitting position will keep you comfortable for hours of
paddling and also will help you better control the boat.
• Sit in the kayak upright, with your back against the seat back.
• Adjust the footrest so that your feet rest on it, with your ankles in a
neutral position. Your knees should be comfortably bent, and your legs
should be splayed apart.
8.4 PADDLING A KAYAK
Paddling a kayak is fairly intuitive, but a few tips will make your
experience more efficient, fun, and relaxing.
8.4.1 How to choose a paddle
Recommended paddle sizes may vary based on the paddle shape and
type, as well as your personal preference. This table offers rules of
thumb, but it is important to note that wider settings might be neccessary
to accomodate the Haven’s width.
YOUR HEIGHT RECOMMENDED PADDLE LENGTH
5’0” – 5’5” 215 – 220 cm
5’5” – 6’2” 220 – 230 cm
6’2” + 225 – 240 cm
Kayaking 101(continued)
8

10 ORU KAYAK | OWNER’S MANUAL
On some kayak paddles the blades are in the same plane. On others, the
blades are offset, to cut more efficiently through wind and water; these
are called feathered paddles. Many paddles, including the Oru Paddle, can
be set in either a feathered or unfeathered position.
8.4.2 How to hold a paddle
1. Hold the paddle securely in front of you with your hands on the shaft
about elbow-width apart.
2. Raise the paddle above your head and balance the paddle shaft on your
head. Reposition your hands so that your elbows are at right angles.
3. Keep your hands in this position and rotate the paddle to just below
shoulder height.
4. This position will allow you to rotate your torso while you paddle. This
will let you paddle faster, longer and more efficiently. It will also protect
you from shoulder fatigue or injury.
5. If you’re using an unfeathered paddle, your knuckles should be aligned
with the paddle blades.
6. If you’re using a feathered paddle, the knuckles of your dominant hand
should align with the corresponding paddle blade. With each stroke,
you’ll rotate the paddle so that the blade enters the water at a right
angle.
7. Whichever paddle you choose, you will use the same grip and
positioning for all strokes.
8.4.3 How to paddle
For all strokes, maintain an upright posture, with the footrest and seat
back adjusted as described on page 9.
Forward stroke
• Start with the paddle oriented as described above.
• Rotate to your left at the torso, and then place two-thirds of the
paddle blade in the water; imagine that you’re stabbing the water.
• Rotate your torso toward your right with the paddle in the water. Repeat
on the opposite side, alternating strokes on the right and left. You want
to use both hands equally—push with one hand while you pull with the
other.
Reverse stroke
To stop, slow down, or move backward, do the same stroke in
reverse. There is no need to flip the paddle backward.
Kayaking 101(continued)
8
WARNING
Practice new strokes in calm, shallow water.

WWW.ORUKAYAK.COM 11
WARNING
Kayakers, especially beginners and novices, can be particularly vulnerable to adverse weather and water conditions. Because of their light
weight and limited speed, kayaks can be especially sensitive to wind, waves, and current. Always be aware of your paddling abilities, the water
and weather conditions, and the limitations of your kayak, and use common sense and good judgment for your own safety.
8.5 MANEUVERING A KAYAK
Rudder turn
- Once you have forward momentum, place your paddle in the water just
behind your hip.
- The resistance and torsion will cause your boat to rotate around the side
the paddle is on.
Sweep-stroke turn
- Place the paddle in the water near the bow (front).
- Then make a large arc-shaped motion toward the stern (back).
- The sweep stroke can be done in a forward or reverse manner.
- To turn the boat in a circle, do a forward sweep stroke on one side and a
reverse sweep stroke on the other side.
8.6 RESCUES
We recommend that you seek professional instruction before using your
kayak in open water. Open water rescues are tricky and
technical.
• We highly recommend the use of float bags. These enable the
kayak to float with the coaming above water level, even after a
full capsize. You can then fully bail out the kayak, making all
rescues much easier.
• ALWAYS WEAR A PFD AND NEVER KAYAK ALONE! Open water
rescues are much easier and safer with multiple paddlers available
to assist.
The wet exit
If your kayak flips while you are in it, the open cockpit will allow you
to just slip out:
- Remain calm.
- Locate your paddle and keep one hand on the kayak at all times.
NOTICE: After a wet exit, you will be swimming next to a kayak full
of water. Don’t panic! There are ways to get back into your kayak from
the water. But, it helps to have friends and experience—don’t go out
into open water without them!
The T-rescue (performed with an additional kayak)
Kayaking 101(continued)
8

12 ORU KAYAK | OWNER’S MANUAL
Limited Warranty
Oru Kayak, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects in material
or workmanship for a period of one year from the date of its original ship
date. If a problem occurs, you must contact Oru Kayak in a timely manner,
either by phone at 415.630.3717 or email at [e-mail],
and obtain a Return Authorization Number. Once a Return Authorization
Number is obtained, you must promptly ship the product, postage prepaid,
to Oru Kayak, Inc. for inspection and warranty consideration to the
return address that will be provided. Any product that is covered by this
warranty and that is found in the reasonable judgment of Oru Kayak, Inc.
to be defective in materials or workmanship will be repaired or replaced
at Oru Kayak’s option. All covered repairs or replacement products will
be made at no charge during the warranty period and within a reasonable
period of time.
This warranty does NOT cover:
Products used for commercial or rental purposes; normal wear and tear,
including punctures, cuts and abrasions sustained in normal use; damage
caused by accident, neglect, or misuse; damage caused by improper
storage maintenance, or handling; damage caused by extreme weather
or environmental conditions, including white water conditions; products
that have been structurally altered or modified; damage caused while the
product is in possession of a freight carrier or party other than Oru Kayak;
cosmetic wear, abrasion, or damage caused by excessive UV exposure;
and products determined to have been used for any activity other than an
activity that is intended or customary for the product.
ACTIVATING YOUR WARRANTY
9
- This rescue can be performed if you’re paddling the Haven solo or
with a partner.
- Your rescuer will come to assist you in their separate kayak.
- Make sure the Haven is upside down in the water.
- Your rescuer will pull the kayak onto the front deck of their kayak,
and drain the water from your kayak by rocking it back and forth.
- Your rescuer will flip your kayak right side up and slide it back into the
water, placing it alongside their boat, stern-to-bow.
- While your rescuer holds both sides of the cockpit to stabilize your
kayak, you will climb into your kayak keeping a low center of gravity,
pivoting your feet into the cockpit.
- You will then roll towards the rescue boat, sliding your feet and bottom
into your kayak.
- If paddling the Haven with a partner, have your rescuer continue to hold
the sides of the cockpit as you hold onto theirs for extra stability as your
paddling partner climbs into the kayak.
- Even after your rescuer has emptied the boat, there will likely
be water in the kayak. Use a sponge or pump to empty and dry
the kayak.
NOTICE: If no one is available to assist you, the reentry technique is more
complicated and should be taught by an experienced instructor.
Kayaking 101(continued)
8

WWW.ORUKAYAK.COM 13
The warranty registration form should be completed online (go to
www.orukayak.com/pages/faqs#Warranty) within thirty days of original
purchase or receipt of product to be activated. It is suggested that you
keep your sales receipt should it be required in the future for proof of
purchase.
LIMITATION AND DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
To the extent permitted by applicable laws:
• Oru Kayak does NOT make any implied warranty of merchantability as to
any product or part, whether or not the product or part is covered by any
express warranty herein;
• Oru Kayak does NOT make any implied warranty of fitness for a
particular purpose, and there are no warranties that extend beyond the
description on the face hereof;
• In those jurisdictions where the implied warranties may not be
disclaimed, any implied warranty is limited in duration to the duration of
the express warranty described in the warranty statement. Some states
do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the
above limitations may not apply to you.
NO LIABILITY OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
The repair and replacement remedies described in this warranty are the
owner’s sole and exclusive remedy. In no event shall Oru Kayak be liable
for any incidental, special, or consequential damages. Some states do not
allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages,
so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty
gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that
vary from state to state.
To validate the warranty, you must register your Oru Kayak within thirty
days of receipt of your kayak. Register online at www.orukayak.com/
pages/faqs#Warranty
Limited Warranty (continued)
9

14 ORU KAYAK | OWNER’S MANUAL
For activating your warranty, you will need the place of purchase, date of
receipt, and the Hull Identification Number (HIN). The HIN is your kayak’s
unique ID. It is located on the outside of the kayak hull on the back right. If
you are having trouble finding it, head to our FAQ page for a video to help.
For your own records:
PLACE OF PURCHASE: ___________________________________________________________________
DATE OF RECEIPT: ______________________________________________________________________
HULL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (HIN):
Your Kayak’s Information
OKA
10

WWW.ORUKAYAK.COM 15

16 ORU KAYAK | OWNER’S MANUAL

WWW.ORUKAYAK.COM 17
EXPLOREEXPLORE
OUTSIDEOUTSIDE
THE BOXTHE BOXTM

Oru Kayak, Inc.
Emeryville, CA
www.orukayak.com
[e-mail]
1015
We’re eager to hear about your
Oru Kayak adventures!
Keep up with events and updates, and share your
own journeys, stories, and photographs:
www.facebook.com/orukayakFacebook
@orukayakTwitter
@orukayak #orukayakInstagram
© 2020 ORU KAYAK, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED