Scamper II Inflatable Kayak on roof racks

[mac07733]

Thinking of buying the Scamper II inflatable kayak and while underway storing it on top. I am concerned about it compressing when cruising at 15 knots. Does anyone have any experience with this issue and an inflatable kayak on top?

 

[tugfan]

I don't believe you will have any problem. My current boat (haven't made the switch to a ranger yet) is a 21 ft. rib, it tops out at 43 kts. I haven't had a problem of it compressing yet. I also tow at 65-70 mph with no problem, so I wouldn't worry. The only thing to watch out for is the air pressure in the sun. When it gets hot sitting on the roof it can get too hard and split a seam. I would suggest letting a little air out to accommodate the heat.

Bill

www.eclecticwonders uncommon art

 

[mac07733]

Thanks Bill,

I really appreciate it.

Dennis

 

[JamesTXSD]

Hey Dennis,

We had a West Marine (Advanced Elements) inflatable kayak for a while; never had an issue with it on top of the boat. Our C-Dory's high cruise is in the mid-20s, so I can't image you'll have a problem with it on the Ranger. The one thing we weren't crazy about with the Advanced Element was the lack of stability when boarding from the boat (which is why we no longer have it). We currently have a sit-in (paddle) and a sit-on (pedal) kayaks that we find are easier to board from our boat. That said, we don't have a large swim step like the Rangers.

Hope that helps.

Best wishes,
Jim B.

 

[Captmike]

We have the advanced element that allows for a double or single deck. It is about 17 feet long with a 30 inch beam. We have no trouble with the kayak on top of the boat although we do watch when it is sunny and warm to make sure it doesn't overinflated. My wife really likes the kayak because she can swing her feet over the side, standup in the boat while holding onto the gunnel , and then sliding down into the boat. It is a very stable platform. We have had many different kayaks and find this to be the best solution. Michael

 

[dennis]

Thanks everyone! Michael I am going to look into the advanced elements model. Thanks again. Dennis

 

[baz]

Thinking of buying the Scamper II inflatable kayak and while underway storing it on top. I am concerned about it compressing when cruising at 15 knots. Does anyone have any experience with this issue and an inflatable kayak on top?

We have a 12.5 foot SeaEagle 385ft FastTrack inflatable kayak on top our R-27/OB. We can cruise up into the mid 30 mph range and do not find "compressing" to be an issue. The kayak is mounted upside down and its aerodynamic shape helps with producing a downward lift on the kayak. I do sort of under inflate the kayak and can quickly pump it backup with a small electric 12v pump I keep on board.