Side handles on an Oasis?

We use a Thule Hullavator, and our Oasis needs to be turned on its side to be set in the Hullavator's cradle. It's kind of an awkward maneuver; hard to hold the boat steady in that position.

What would make it less awkward would be a handles on the side of the boat (fore and aft) so that, by holding the handles, the boat would be hanging down beneath the handles, sideways, and ready to be lifted onto the cradle.

I hesitate to put holes in the side of a boat and to stress the hull, even for a short time, in that way. Still, it would be super convenient.

We're brand new at this stuff and so any advice/suggestions/warnings would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Like this?

Roadrunner,

Yes! Thanks!

Only they'd be closer to the bow and the stern (just about 12 inches toward the center of the boat from each) so we could reach them while standing at the ends of the boat.

Also, they'd be lower, closer to the vertical center of the boat. On the 2011 Oasis, that'd be right behind the logo on the stern, I think.

I like those big, "grippy" handles. Is there a preferred attachment method? Those "well nuts"? Bolts and washers and silicon?

(After our Oasis purchase: sick, back out, tropical storm, local lake closure. Maiden voyage tomorrow--finally!)

THANKS for the response and pictures.

It's best to keep any holes above the waterline.

Well nuts aren't strong enough IMO. I use SS through bolts, flat washers to distribute the load and Nyloc nuts. Personally I don't worry about silicon above the waterline -- there is always a small leak somewhere anyway, but easy to wipe up. Placement becomes restricted to wherever you can reach inside through the hatches.

Let me suggest an alternate method of lifting by use of a center grip and aft drivewell. This looks deceiving, as the upper legs actually do a major part of the lifting; the arms mostly balance and hold the boat against the legs. In these shots, note the left arm is virtually straight and the right arm balances and holds the boat tight. Here's what it looks like, showing the position of the hands:





I don't know how much lift you need to access the Hullavator, but it's easy to swing either side up from this position without grounding. Note the shift in supporting leg:





My wife has a little arthritis in her hands so it's uncomfortable for her to lift one end of the boat. With a little practice, it's not difficult at all to handle and load the boat alone this way. The 2011 Oasis handles exactly the same way.

Will be anxious to hear your first impressions!

Wow, Roadrunner, thanks for the super-helpful post! I see you around the forums here and you are very generous with your knowledge.

I was out wrestling with the Oasis tonight and was imagining your handle there by the sail mount--I think that's an excellent idea!

Tomorrow's our first attempt at the ballet of out of the garage, on the truck, off the truck, on the cart, in the water, on the cart, on the truck, off the truck, in the garage....

We're taking it slow and paying attention to how we handle things because I want to get the handle(s) right the first time...I'll let you know.

And thanks again!

Wow. I bought some of those handles last season, but have not yet installed them. I'm glad that I saw this thread first! I often have to maneuver the Oasis on land by myself, and your center-handle method looks like a winner.

What was your thinking for the side-mounted handles? There have been times when I'm underway when I wished for something to hold onto just casually. Did you have the same thought?

Cheers.

Yes, indeed!


As you know, the '11 Oasis now includes cockpit handles -- nice touch! When installing the grips on all other models, remember to keep clear of the paddle storage areas. Take your time and confirm the best fore/aft location while in the boat before committing the drill.