Deck layout
Latest updated Tuesday, July 22, 2014, 9 comments
Deck layout is a matter of taste, use, ambition, safety, convenience etc. There are though certain basic functions to think of.
- Anchor points for a map and a compass (if not built-in).
- A perimeter line - a wet kayak is very slippery.
- The hardware should protrude as little as possible to minimize splashing and chafing.
- For the same reason a hatch on the foredeck should be flush.
- Lines to hold a spare paddle, rain- and windbreaker, paddle float, pump, signalling devices, water bottle, knife etc – could be elastic chord or Greenland style line and sliders.
- Never use rope loops to hold on to the kayak. If the kayak rotates in breakers you may loose a couple of fingers. A toggle or crossed lines are safer.
This is what it looks like on my latest kayaks.