Outrigger Canoe OC1 Storage and Transportation

A guide for safely storing and moving your Hawaiian Canoes

So you just bit the bullet and purchased your first canoe, congratulations!  Now you need to know the best ways to store and transport your canoe.  Carbon fiber canoes require special care in handling and transporting.  We have put a list together of some tips and resources for you, remember safety first, even when transporting.

Storage

  • Store your canoe indoors whenever possible. UV damage can and will shorten the life of your equipment

  • Use the supplied covers to protect your canoe, ama, and iakos

  • Spend some time preparing a safe place to store your canoe. Be sure to use padding wherever the canoe will be resting to prevent scratches and dents.

  • Place the supports close to the iako sleeves if possible. The area around the iako sleeves is the stongest part of the canoe

  • Store the canoe with the hull up. Decks are flatter and easier to support

Transportation

  • Racks options are different for every vehicle. Start by finding a dealer or custom rack builder. Yakima and Thule both make good racks and accessories.

  • It’s important to note the difference in racking an OC1 compared to other gear (ie: bikes), it comes down to the length and the delicate nature of the vessel. A wide span will assist in supporting the boat during wind or higher speed driving. But ALWAYS use common sense, some conditions, speed and wind factors could damage your canoe if not mounted correctly.

  • If you have cradles carry the canoe right side up. If you have pads carry the canoe upside down.

  • Use straps or soft rope and to keep the canoe attached securely. Do not over tighten! This could cause pressure dings and dents to the part of the canoe in contact with the racks. Be sure to strap down both forward and aft. Each strap should go over the canoe, under the crossbar, then back over the canoe and under the crossbar, creating a U shape. You can use a bungie cord to hold down the canoe while your apply the straps, this can be helpful in windy conditions.

  • Law requires a visible red flag(day time) and a red light(night time) for any load protruding 4ft or more from the rear of any vehicle or trailer. The supplied covers have red ends for this purpose, but do not fulfill the requirement.

  • ALWAYS test the canoe by using your hand on the nose and the tail, to be sure it does not move left to right or backward to forward. Also test your canoe if you stop for food, gas etc and step away from the car. This is a good habit as someday you might be distracted when loading your boat, come back and drive away with the straps not on. Make it a habit to always test that the canoe is secure before driving.

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