I have just about finished my Chesapeake 17'! I am dying to try it out. I don't have a roof rack for my car and I am looking for suggestions on ways to transport it without spending a lot (or any) money. I have been transporting a canoe using the blue foam blocks, and then using a pair of ratcheting webbing straps. I looped the straps around the canoe, put them inside the doors, hooked the ends together and then cranked the ratchets down tight. It was quick and really solid. Would it work for a kayak? or will I have to buy a special rack. Also, I don't have a paddle yet. I was taking a look today and saw wooden ones that were quite cheap. They went for about $90 (canadian) and then the non-wood ones all seemed to be quite a lot more money. Are the wood ones okay? I haven't paddled before, so I don't anticipate paddling across the seven seas this summer or anything. Also, are nylon spray skirts alright? Budget is tight, so cheap options are more attractive to me now.

Your expertise is appreciated.

Thanks, Paul