surf launching tips

[SJ~brett]

i posting this here because i was told i might get more responses.

im having a tough time launching my 10' zodiak in the surf. its small bay surf but i dont have any experience so the two times ive done it have been a very wet,... experience.

any help greatly appreciated!

 

[Shawn_floats]

Re: surf launching tips

I assume this is a powered Zodiac?

I've had one for a few years, so understand what you are talking about.

Easy solution! Get yourself some launching wheels for it. They drop down during launch and can be folded up out of the way after launch.
Do a google search and you'll find some. Your local Zodiac dealer probably carries them also.

They make Zodiac launching 10,000 times easier, trust me.

As an added bonus, moving it over land becomes a one man, one hand task!

Good Luck!

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: surf launching tips

i sent a message to the inflatable guru. hopefully he will respond.

 

[deejaycee_2000]

Re: surf launching tips

Hey Brett ..... launching in the surf can be tricky yes, but wet it will always be, best will be to off-load the boat on the beach first and then push the boat nose first into the water, this will also minimize water form splashing in the boat, you would need 2 people ..... see this image .... not exactly the same as in my pic, but sorta just the oposite, but you will get what I mean ....

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: surf launching tips

this is interesting, http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=215447

 

[SJ~brett]

Re: surf launching tips

thanks for the responses!

yes my zodiak is powered by a 8hp yami. i do have beach wheels as well. my issue is getting through the breaking surf. i guess my timing is off

 

[bjcsc]

Re: surf launching tips

I have similar experience...I sailed a Hobie 16 off of the beach for years. I would walk it out past the breakers, time the rolling waves, and right after a crest, climb up and off I'd go...

Do you walk it out or do you try to go right from the beach?

 

[SJ~brett]

Re: surf launching tips

i walk till im about waste dep then hop in and make a run for it.