When I use my spray skirt, I need some place to put my paddle when I am not using it (like when I am sailing). My previous strategy of putting one end of the paddle in the cockpit won’t work with a spray-skirt in use. I’m experimenting with using a light-weight ZRE canoe paddle. A canoe paddle will actually be preferable for use with the sail up if I want to sail and paddle at the same time. It is also easier to find a place to store it since it is smaller.

I found that it fits nicely right on top of the boat just behind the seat if I install paddle clips right on the hatch cover. This location will allow me to gain easy access to the paddle while I am in the seat whenever I need it.

A paddle leash will always be used.  You don’t want to lose your paddle!

In these pictures, the wing is not in place but the paddle should easily clear the thickness of the wing.

One inch diameter stainless steel washers were used on the other side of the hatch for better support.  The clips were positioned near the edge of the hatch were the material will be stronger.  A little epoxy was added for good measure.

When using the spray skirt, I should now be able to easily reach back and put the paddle there or retrieve it while underway.  When I don’t use the spray skirt, I will probably just keep the paddle with me in the cockpit for even more easy access.