How do you transport your kayak securely on a tug or boat?

[angelaclarksons]

Hi, I'm Angela.
I've been exploring different methods to safely carry my kayak on larger vessels for extended fishing trips or remote location access. The challenge lies in finding a balance between secure attachment and easy accessibility. I'm curious about the various mounting systems and tie-down techniques others have used successfully.

What's your preferred method for securing a kayak on a boat deck? Have you encountered any specific challenges when transporting kayaks on tugs or larger vessels? For those who frequently combine boating with kayaking, how do you protect your kayak from damage during transport?
I've been researching gear on aguapulse but would love to hear about real-world experiences and solutions.

 

[sogreer]

We don't have our R27 yet, but plan to attach Yakima Kayak JayHook racks to the bars on either side of the cabin roof which will be very secure and not obstructing to the sunlight needed for the solar panels. I have seen this on other R27s. We can't wait to take delivery and start our adventures.

 

[Fishmagnet]

we modified our sport rack on the top of our 2021 R27 so they wouldn't slide off. We use two straps for each kayak. 3,000 miles of boating and 1,800 miles of towing the and had no problems.

 

[LMRanger]

Pretty heavy duty lift for two kayaks.

 

[CarrieIF]

We bought smaller, lighter kayaks specifically for our RT. These are Delta 10AR Kayaks https://www.deltakayaks.com/delta-10ar/ . They are 32lbs each. It does take two of us to lift or lower each boat, but we love to kayak and having nice kayaks that paddle well is important to us. They are on kayak J-hooks that are attached to the sport rack on either side of the solar panel. They do block the solar panel, so we have to drop them in order to get solar charging, but there are always compromises to be made.

Alternatively, we have figured out that we can stand these kayaks up in the cockpit on either side of the bimini. Blocks the rear view some but easier than lifting to the roof.

Here is what our first test of this looked like (with the other kayak on the roof).
Either way, the kayaks are secured with straps the way they are on our car roof and they have never moved. We feel completely secure about then staying put.
The bigger concern for us before we got our RT last year was how to get in and out of the kayaks from the RT. We have found that it works great to use the starboard swim ladder to step down onto the top rung with your left foot, then hold the rails and put your right foot in the kayak and lower yourself in. We also have a Seasucker handle that we attach to the RT just fore of the swim platform to help with this (a lower place to hold onto). When we come back, we put both our legs out to the port side of the kayak, step onto the second rung of the swim ladder and pull ourselves up (here's where the Seasucker handle really helps).
-Carrie

 

[S. Todd]

I use an inflatable kayak by Inova. I let the air out and roll it up when not using it. Takes just a few minutes to inflate.

 

[SeaWoof]

The J racks look great - always what I used for my car with an 18' and very secure. I would almost consider flipping them the other way around on the ranger, so they lean out. Not as easy to load an unload (would have to be slid on from the back), but would give the solar panel more room from shading. Maybe a silly idea...