[Paddlewise] Rescuing a swamped Old Town Loon (was Nearly Fatal)

There is a technique I learned for rescuing swamped boats with inadequate
flotation (missing/lost flotation bags, blown bulkhead, whatever).  The
people who taught it to me called it "Cleopatra's Needle."

Come alongside the swamped boat and SLOWLY pull it to a level position.
Even if it is fully swamped, it can be moved through the water slowly
although it is impossible to move quickly.  When the boat is elevated to the
surface and level, begin to rotate it and lift just a little to allow water
to spill out of the cockpit.  As water spills out, the boat will lighted and
you'll be able to lift and rotate more effectively.  Eventually, you'll get
enough water out of the boat to provide essential stability.  If the boat is
not too heavy intrinsically, then a T-rescue will empty most of the rest of
the water.

    Bob V


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