Re: [Paddlewise] Deck/Underdeck storage?

Joan,

 I too paddle a Gulfstream but have a completely different idea about the
front deck. The only thing ever on my deck is a chart case when I need to be
using a map to navigate. Otherwise, I have seen too many people capsize when
a wave breaks over their boat and "catches" the deck back. The mesh ones
especially seem to shift and that has caused several of my friends to have
problems while launching through surf.

For on the water storage and accessability, nothing IMNSHO beats the day
hatch on the GS. I carry my emergency repair kit, signalling kit, jacket,
neoprene hood, tow line, water, snacks or lunch in there all of the time.
While others are fumbling around trying to remove skirts, I can just reach
back, get what I need and close the hatch again.

By keeping the deck clear, there is nothing to interfere with the paddle
while doing rear sweep strokes amd high or low bracing turns.

I don't use a knee tube only because I need the space in the cockpit for me.
My paddle float and pump fit very nicely in the space between the hull and
the seat.

Steve Holtzman

----- Original Message -----
From: "Joan Spinner" <jspinner_at_peoplepc.com>
>     I really hate the stuff on my deck but I always seem to have this and
> that. I can have a VHF, goggles, even an extra paddle on my front deck.
The
> water and bag are bad enough but add new things and I bump into them. I
paddle
> Greenland and have a Gulfstream with a rather high deck so it is very easy
to
> thump things with my 2X4. I have a knee tube but it is full with the
paddle
> float and pump. I don't want to HAVE TO reach things inside my boat.
>


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