auxillary boat

[pgpg5860]

We're looking for some ideas on what type of auxillary boat we could carry on our 24' Bayliner so we can run into shore etc. We would need to store the boat on top of the cabin so it needs to be only around 6' in size and the shoreline where we boat is usually rocky or sharp barnicles. Thanks in advance for your help

 

[Drowned Rat]

Re: auxillary boat

I'd go with a small Hypalon inflatable like an Achilles with an inflatable floor. That way you'd have the option of keeping it inflated and on your roof or deflated and tucked away somewhere. The inflatable floor will roll up nicely with the rest of the boat. The Hypalon material should withstand all but the most brutal treatment. Barnacles should be no problem. Small inflatables also tow nicely if you wanted to do that too. Also, I'd be scared to take any other kind of boat that size in the ocean, even as a tender. And! they're light! A 2.5hp outboard will almost plane it out with one person on board.

 

[pgpg5860]

Re: auxillary boat

Thanks Drowned Rat I'll check them out, is the Achillies the better brand?

 

[Dakota47]

Re: auxillary boat

you need something like this

 

[Drowned Rat]

Re: auxillary boat

Achilles makes an excellent boat that will last decades if taken care of. Avons are good, some Zodiacs. I would avoid PVC boats for your application. Achilles only uses Hypalon. Superior abrasion and pucture resistance and sheds UV radiation well.

 

[pgpg5860]

Re: auxillary boat

thanks for the feed back guys, the inflatable would work better as I have to transport it in the back of my pickup with other supplies

 

[arks]

Re: auxillary boat

I agree with Drowned Ray about PVC boats. I tried one and it only lasted a month or so. They cut very easily and get soft in the hot sun. IMO they're only good as floating lounges.
Any inflatable- no matter how small- will take up a LOT of precious space onboard. The cabintop is a good spot but a Hypalon boat will be pretty heavy to drag up there. Most people get dinghy davits and secure them to the swim platform. Also, remember- the motor will take up additional space when stored.
Another alternative (and my favorite)- for the last 7 or 8 years we've been using small recreational kayaks for dinghys. Currently I keep an Old Town Otter (9' long) onboard, but we often add a Islander Colada sit-on-top. They're easy to paddle and a lot of fun. Another perk- they're legal to paddle after dark with just a flashlight.
I've seen some boats similar to yours with multiple kayaks secured to the cabintop via bungee cords with foam noodles underneath. Very simple to rig.