Infalatables & CD 27

[Richard Gelfand]

I have been looking at inflatable tenders for my CD 27. I anticipate using the boat to get from a mouring or anchorage to the shore. I am concerned about which boats can be stowed easily, as well as which are most durable and workable. I have looked at a small Achilies which is comparable in size to the Avon Redcrest, and also at larger models. What do you guys think? How about techniques for launching and retrieving inflatables? Thanks for the help.

[Neil Gordon]

We have the smallest West Marine model. No motor... I use it for exercise and as a tender to and from shore when we anchor or moor. It's easy to launch... inflate it on the foredeck and use the spin halyard to lift it over the side. Retrieval is just as easy.

Any tender might be too big to store if it's inflated... but it folds to reasonable size and stows in the v-berth.


Regards, Neil
s/v LIQUIDITY
Cape Dory 28 #167



neil@nrgordon.com

[Captain Mike]

Infatiables have the ability to be deflated and be stowed in the cabin. Who likes to continually inflat and deflat a boat. May I suggest a solid wood dingy. I currently use a custom chine panel 6'6'' boat that stores beautifully on the foredeck of my CD 22D. I had to install two chocks on either side of the mast step to engage the dingy's transom and secure the boat on the deck. A CD 27 could accomodate a slightly larger boat than the one I use. These smaller dingys are strong and light enough to be handled by one person. I am able to launch and retrieve the boat myself even in the most unfavorabe conditions. The dingy is eazily constructed using the stitch and glue method. If you would like more information about the design do not hestitate to call. : I have been looking at inflatable tenders for my CD 27. I anticipate using the boat to get from a mouring or anchorage to the shore. I am concerned about which boats can be stowed easily, as well as which are most durable and workable. I have looked at a small Achilies which is comparable in size to the Avon Redcrest, and also at larger models. What do you guys think? How about techniques for launching and retrieving inflatables? Thanks for the help.



mattngly@concentric.net