Re: [Paddlewise] Towing kayaks behind motor boat

From: Bob Volin <bobvolin_at_optonline.net>
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002 11:36:42 -0400
I would be very leery of a tandem 3-boat tow behind a motorboat.  If any of
the three kayaks should capsize, rescue/recovery would be difficult (or at
least very awkward) and slow, and a swimmer might be in danger of being hit
by following boats.   Probably the safest (and most enjoyable) option is the
one previously mentioned, which is to make it a round-trip paddle with
motorboat backup.

Failing that, consider rafting the three kayaks side to side, with liberal
padding between boats.  Tie them such that any one of the kayakers can
paddle forward to free the tow line (e.g., use a tow line with a carabiner
at the end. Run the tow line through the deck lines at the bow, and clip the
carabiner back to the tow line).  AND -- VERY IMPORTANT -- TOW SLOWLY.

bv


> Tom LeTourneau wrote: =======
> >Is there an alternative? Has anyone experience
> >with towing three kayaks behind a powered boat?
>
> G'Day,
>
> In Dances with Waves, about halfway though the chapter "Carnsore Point to
> Dursey Island" (Page 80 in my copy), Brian Wilson describes in some detail
> being towed at 15 knots by an Irish fisherman. From his description of
> towing one kayak I think you might be better off towing the boats one
behind
> the other.


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Received on Sat Jul 13 2002 - 08:35:38 PDT

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