: I'm creeping along on my Spring Run kit build. Almost up to the
: keel on the hull stripping. Anyway, been thinking of hatches,
: etc for the deck.
: While storage space would be nice, I'm starting to think that maybe
: for my first build I avoid hatches all together. I make the yak
: with no hatchstoreage at all.
: Keep it simple!

: Almost all the yaks I've been seeing have hatches. Am I
: over-concerned with installing hatches?

: If I decide to add one later to the finished yak, is it a PITA and
: messy?

: Thx,
: Rob

In general the need for hatches is driven by the use you intend for the boat. If you plan to have closed spaces you'll need access for inspection; my small sailboat has simple screw-on panels in the floatation chambers.

The original yaks did not have hatches or bukheads. I have two plastic yaks, one with and one without hatches: they never get used - if I have a lot of luggage to haul I use the canoe.

What I would like on my boats are holders for water bottle and safety kit, and a place for a hack paddle for use in rocky areas to avoid scratching the Grey Owl.