Canoe as a dinghy?

[RKO]

I have a 10ft canoe that would work well as a dinghy. I reckon it will hang just fine on my davitts.

Any reason not to go this route? I can't mount an ob on the canoe, but for lake sailing, I doubt that's gonna be a big deal.

[FSMike]

Does it have a drain plug in case a heavy rain sets in while it's hanging from your davits?

[RKO]

Originally Posted by FSMike

Does it have a drain plug in case a heavy rain sets in while it's hanging from your davits?

HA! Great point! No it does not.....

[Stingo]

Does it have enough space to carry a load of beers to your boat?

[David M]

It is going to be less stable than an inflatable. You don't want to be limited when conditions are a little rough and you need to get ashore or back to the boat. The last thing you want is a capsize with you, others and all your stuff in the water. Once a canoe swamps, that's it. You are going to need help from others or to be able to swim it ashore or back to the boat.

[olepedersen]

I have carried a 12 foot canoe on a 26' tanzer in georgian bay ,and florida keys. tied it tight to sternrail with bow out off the water, when traveling all day,,towed it for smaller trips and stored it upside down when left on board it was a great and quiet way to explore . Ole

[zeehag]

i use kayaks. isnt difficult--it does make the balance better to use it so not to lose it.....

[micah719]

Some redneck modifications such as an outrigger, integral flotation and some decking might alleviate the major downsides pointed out...and the catters will love another convert to the tribe.

[mrohr]

Many better choices .

[RKO]

Originally Posted by mrohr

Many better choices .

That's what I'm thinking now...

[barnakiel]

I think, onboard space allowing, a canoe can be a great dinghy. Probably the polynesian style would work best - very light and stable.

b.

[Therapy]

Lake sailing?

If that is all you have.....

I don't see why not as long as you have had experience paddling against a breeze. i.e. not easy.

You can rig a couple of boards and hang it upside down.

[Loz]

Issues include stability, boarding, bailing, and windage.... they're simply not designed for the ocean!

[Bash]

Originally Posted by Therapy

Lake sailing?
If that is all you have.....
.

I guess it depends on the lake. Walden Pond--go for it. Lake Superior--think again.

A good question to ask about any dink: Would I feel safe jumping into this thing ten miles offshore when the mothership is on fire?

If the shoreline is never more than a mile away, a canoe might work.