Tow and Eastport Nesting Pram

[dmksails]

I'm in the process of building an Eastport nesting pram for my boat. I do plan to keep in on deck most of the time, but was thinking that I would occasionally tow it for short trips.

As I build the pram I'm now not so sure that the forward transom is strong enough for towing.

Does anyone out there tow an Eastport pram that they built. Did you do anything to reinforce the bow? How are you connecting the tow rope to the dinghy?

[Bill O]

Didn't build an Easport, but a Spindrift 10' nesting and we re-enforced the area where the SS U-bold connects to the hull. With the U-bolt backing plate in place, it's plenty strong and haven't seen any stress cracks in the hull.

Make sure you position the U-bolt/tow line attachment so it gives the bow a slight lift when towing.

Good luck w/your project.

Bill O.

[seanmcgrath]

I'm building one of these and searched the clc builders forum for this same question. Do the same and you'll find some good answers.

[UNCIVILIZED]

There's some excellent info in Bruce Bingham's The Sailor's Sketchbook, covering making sure that a dink's stem is strong enough. Ditto the stem & towing hardware. Where & how to best attach same. Dink capsize prevention, & mitigation, etc.