: Need your expertice on what type of foating dock system would be used for
: Kayaks and Canoes. We are looking to put in a docking system in Copper
: Harbor, Michigan - which is located in the upper peninsula. We need some
: contacts and any input which would help us. We can be reached at
: 906-337-0300 Northern Consultants, Inc., Calumet, MI.
: Thanks Donna.

The best is a beach (or ramp) without tides. To launch, you walk into the water and, keeping one foot on the ground, put your butt in the kayak seat. Then bring the legs in when you are a few yards offshore. To land, hang one foot out of the cockpit as you approach the shore... transfer your weight to the outboard foot when you approach shallow water.

In terms of docks, there is a good one at Seattle's Northwest Outdoor Center www.NWOC.com As I recall, the dock rides 6" or 8" above the water and there are narrow slips wide enough for two boats each. You put a boat in the slip and lay one end of the paddle on the dock and the other end behind the cockpit to enter/exit. I think it's harder to lift the kayak in and out of the water because it is so low. Personally I prefer a beach or ramp any day of the week.

Chip
http://www.ChipSandresky.com