: Guys, I am not so much interested in longevity or alternatives. No
: offense, but I am trying to recreate the old ways here in Africa
: ;-)

Have you got seal hides available and an arctic-like climate to paddle in?

You have to remember that Inuit boats were built with materials and techniques that were suited to their environment. You really cannot separate one from the other and expect the same results. You can certainly try using leather for a skin material, but I suspect that the stitching methods used by the Inuit would not be as effective with tanned/shrunk hides. I guess a lot also depends on whether you actually intend to use the boat or if it's just going to be a display piece. If it's the latter, use whatever you like for a skin and have fun doing it.