[Paddlewise] Towing kayaks behind sailboat

From: Ken Cooperstein <cprstn54_at_att.net>
Date: Sat, 28 Mar 1998 08:22:58 -0500
Sea Kayaker routinely has an ad showing a sailboat towing multiple sea
kayaks, with three of them tethered to the same cleat jostling each
other at their bows.  While this makes an interesting picture, it would
appear to be questionable seamanship, especially when crossing rough
seas.

What would be the best way of towing two unladen sea kayaks (with all
openings sealed) behind a cruising sailboat?  One on each quarter?  One
tow line to the yaks tied up like an elephant parade?  Tie them up short
to the bow toggles with the bows lifted a few inches out of the water (I
like this best)?

Perhaps the whole concept is flawed:  If a kayak flips over, what then?
You can't safely stop in a storm every five minutes to flip your kayak
upright.  How much iron would I have to lash to the seat of a typical
sea kayak to make it self-righting when otherwise empty and sealed?

Ken Cooperstein


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Received on Sat Mar 28 1998 - 05:23:38 PST

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