tpdavis473 wrote:
Why not try this before making permanent mods to the boat. Take the hatches off the boat. Load your camping gear inside the hulls (attach lines to each bag so you don't lose them inside). Put the hatches back on the hulls. Put the tools you need to take the hatches off inside the hatch compartment. Include a siphon in your gear in case the hulls get water inside.
Gday, thanks for the idea, but as the hatches are sealed on to the hull, (2007 model) it would probably be asking for leak issues if I remove, so rather not do that. At present there's never been a drop of water in the hulls, just minute amount of condensation. I do have tiny bags that connect to a line via the 5inch? hatch inside the esky, but they are too small to be practical. I'd like to be able to get a tent and rolled up mattresses inside the hull as they would fit via a 8inch hatch.
I do have lots of dry bags etc. It would also be a handy way access hull to easily add hiking strap bolts should i ever feel like doing.
Just hoping to find the person who has modified and hear their opinions...
Also hoping that HOBIE ENGINEERING might volunteer info on whether this action might weaken hull which is my main concern.