Outdoor storage

I posted a question on the storage board, but didn't get any responses so I thought I'd try here. I am planning to buy a new TI in the next month and am hoping to store it on a floating dock. Does this sound like a reasonable plan? Would the TI cover be sufficient protection from UV/heat damage? Could I leave it on the flat surface of the dock? Or does it need other support? Thanks for any input.

I used to work in a sea kayak manufacturing plant (gfibre and poly). After lots of methods "storage on flat wooden shelves" became the preferred method.

Where abouts are you located ? I don't know what the performance of the Hobie cover is like but if it is like their other gear, it should be OK. The most important thing is to get good support under the hull either by laying it upside down or on it's side if you are short on room. But, if you are located in a hot climate, support it in as many spots as possible as the hull can soften and deform if heated. Pool noodles are ideal for supporting the hull. Attach a photo of your proposed storage spot and we can all pitch in with suggestions. ( we all love photos )

_________________


Don't take life too seriously................it ain't permanent.

Thanks for the replies. I am located on a protected, deep water creek with access to the Chesapeake bay. I don't have a picture, because I haven't installed the floating dock yet. I intend to have it custom made for this purpose, so any design features you might suggest would be helpful. Also I'm 115lb and will be "manhandling" the TI by myself, mostly.

Can you have an inclined ramp and a hand winch installed on your dock you you don't have much manhandling to do?
Also recommend a cradle to support the TI Hull.

_________________

Yes, I was thinking about the winch. When you say cradle, are you referring to the supports that Hobie makes for the TI?

The TI seems to store well on a large flat slightly padded area, so covered, resting on a padded (rugged?) dock should work well even without cradles (unlike the AI).

_________________

Hobie Island Sailing since 2006

Thanks for all the replies. I feel better now. I thought you were all going to tell me I can't keep It outside. I'll probably find a way to put it the garage in the winter.

How about a floating dock you can sail up on?

_________________
Dan St. Gean
'82 H 18
'96 H Wave

Concept sketches for the sail-on dock? I like that!

Some marinas offer small, lock together floating pontoon units, some of the newer units are shaped to accept a jetski shaped hull that can be pulled onto them. The blocks of pontoon are about 3' X 3' and can be walked on, merely locking together at their corners to create larger pontoons. Made of a tough plastic, looking like an overgrown Lego brick, they have been around a while, sounds perfect for your needs?

Yes, thanks, Weysail. I have seen those modular plastic docks. I think they would work, but my DH prefers a more traditional look. I am thinking of a low-rise dock with a slight "ramp" feature. I'll talk to the dock man and see what he recommends. Our local Hobie dealer has these boats on a floating dock and I think I'll go see just how difficult it is to haul one out of the water. Thanks, again.