Launching Systems

Zodiac Spindrift · 28 July 2011, 18:11

Hi Folks,

I'm hopefully looking for something that exists but I've just not come across it yet.

In preference to transom wheels that look a bit naff and add additional weight at the back end, I'm hoping to find a supplier of inflatable tubes of about 2m in length and about 200mm or 300mm diameter that can be used to roll the boat down a beach. The beauty being that when not required they could be deflated and stored without taking up much room or adding a lot of weight.

Anyone come across such devices?

Err

Max... · 28 July 2011, 18:24

Not inflatable, but you see these on any beach where people launch small fishing boats - they just use a series of rigid plastic (industrial type) water pipes, usually chained together running down the beach.

karlT · 28 July 2011, 18:44

Something like this ??

Cheetah Marine LLP

Zodiac Spindrift · 28 July 2011, 19:38

I'm looking for ones that could be used on occasion as opposed to regularly.

At the moment when out and about we'll head off to an island or beach, tie up for a bit and let the kids explore or eat. If its a flat beach we have to mess about with anchoring to keep afloat if the tide is on the ebb. Some form of roller system that packs away like inflatable tubes would be ideal for returning the boat to the water if it dries out.

I know the Zodiac is a light boat, but try telling my Mrs if we have to lift it.

gary222 · 28 July 2011, 22:14

we used to use big big fenders to launch dinghies from the beach?

benc · 29 July 2011, 01:37

You must be able to find cheaper, but these would work:-
Avon Inflatable Fenders , Fenders & Buoys | Mailspeed Marine

Max... · 29 July 2011, 06:01

Blimey - I'd just carry a few cut down lengths of guttering downpipe - cost a few quid.

azzurro · 29 July 2011, 07:43

I do use an inflatable roller to launch. They do work easy with a sib: I mount mine at 10 meters from the shore and it's just two pulls to get it to the water. I recommend the bigger the better (watch out for rated weight, it's better to be sure. 300kg size is OK).
I also use them for kids sitting on board. And once deflated you can take it in the boat.
That's me sitting on top of mine:
http://www.rib.net/forum/f50/honwave...ful-37806.html

Zodiac Spindrift · 29 July 2011, 07:45

Just found inflatable tubes - 2 for £7.99.

The type they have in swimming pools. I suspect they may be a bit too thin for running over a beach with stones etc. At this price it may be worth trying them with a canvas wrap?

I'll give it a go and report back

azzurro · 29 July 2011, 08:29

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zodiac Spindrift

Just found inflatable tubes - 2 for £7.99.

The type they have in swimming pools. I suspect they may be a bit too thin for running over a beach with stones etc. At this price it may be worth trying them with a canvas wrap?

I'll give it a go and report back

Don't, they'll pop for sure.

And for stone beaches, use fenders, they are thicker than rollers.

azzurro · 29 July 2011, 08:33

And another point: as your boat is a Futura, you will need a fender/roller for each keel. The good point is that they can be rated for less weight (the half) and also be shorter.

raymillard · 29 July 2011, 10:26

You used to be able to buy them.
Does anyone remember Siesta Roll-a-Boat launching systems?

Zodiac Spindrift · 29 July 2011, 18:17

Thanks guys, I'll look about and see what I can come up with.