What is La Belle Sauvage?

Malcolm's canoe, La Belle Sauvage, symbolizes freedom and independence. Without the canoe, not only would the CCD have caught Lord Asriel when he went to see Lyra, but also Gerard would have nabbed Malcolm and Lyra during the flood. La Belle Sauvage is only means of fast transportation and escape that Malcolm has. This simple and small boat allows Lyra, Malcolm, and Alice to escape with their lives.