: I agree that a complete set of deck lines surrounding the perimeter of the
: kayak is fairly basic safety equipment. A varnished boat is slipperier
: than a greased pig and almost impossible to hold onto. But, when you've
: found some really nice wood it seems a shame to clutter it up with all
: sorts of ropes. I've been in situations where my deck-line free kayak has
: proved a significant liability.

: If you intend to use your kayak a lot, consider messing up the beauty of the
: wood with at least a perimeter grab line. If you can't bring yourself to
: add deck lines, be aware of the potential risks and try to plan
: accordingly - be more careful about the conditions you venture out in,
: learn a bombproof roll and if you do have to exit the boat - don't let go
: of the cockpit coaming. Also have alternative methods of helping someone
: else such as a tow line.

That's really the issue--I have running decklines that allow me to grab the boat at all points from stem to stern, but other folks aren't used to the same system. It works for me, and has never been a liability, personally, but I now realize that I need to also add "what works for other people", since I am now responsible for more than simply my own safety.

I've decided that I really must add the decklines. I don't think they'll look as good as a clean deck, but it's a choice I had to make.

Shawn