Kayaks on R-27

[schenkd]

New owner of an R-27 who would really like to bring kayaks with us on the boat. We know we cannot bring our 45 lb Eddyline kayaks with us so we are looking for something light to paddle around near the shore. We are having a hard time imagining ourselves pulling off kayaks from the very narrow ledge on the side of the boat while anchoring or on a mooring ball (we're not young!). I've read all the posts about kayaks but would still greatly appreciate any advice about either kayaks that might work or how to stow them and get them off while anchored on an R-27. Thanks in advance.

 

[Kimberly Dawn]

We have a 2-man Sea Eagle 385FT that's 12'-6" long and weighs 38#. Yes, getting it up on the sports rack (we have a Yakima Jaylow rack system mounted) is cumbersome if not down right awkward! A speedy secondary position for travel is to pull it thru the transom door tight to the cabin bulkhead (this is where it's stowed when trailering). Fits nicely, doesn't inhibit starboard gunnel access at moorage, and allows for transom bench deployment and cabin window deployment. It rides well in the kayak rack when mounted there, with cinch straps to the bow and stern, although it adds to the "sail" area.

On the flip side, would I want the new RT RIB dinghy davit to mount a conventional dinghy on the swimstep. It's intriguing but I would not give up my unobstructed sightlines on my 4-to-8. Also, it's a pretty serious interruption of the design lines of the boat... alhough I could probably get use to it with a real dinghy.

Bob
The Doghouse 2