Fender Storage System & more…

One of the issues I wanted to revamp during this build was to come up with an improved system for:

1. Boarding from the shore
2. Fender storage
3. Re-entry safety and comfort upon capsize
4. Quicker deployment of fenders at the dock
5. Quicker storage of fenders when leaving the dock
6. Improved fender adjustment at the dock

What if we could accomplish all of these issues with one simple system.  But, before we solve these problems, let’s make sure we understand the problems.  

1. Boarding from shore.  IMHO, Scamp is hard to board.  The cockpit coaming makes it  very difficult to jump aboard, especially when pushing the boat off shore in shallow water.  It’s almost impossible unless you simply flop onto the coaming edge and roll in.  I’m getting a little old for that technique.
2. Fender storage.  Fenders are big, wet and awkward.  And, they take up a ton of room.
3. When I used the re-entry sling on my last Scamp, it became apparent to me that a softer cockpit coaming edge would make the process safer and more comfortable.
4. When I’m approaching a dock, there’s a lot going on.  I’m primarily focused on wind direction, wind speed and hull speed.  The last thing I want to do is worry about deploying the fenders.
5. When leaving a dock there’s also a lot going on.  I’m getting the sail set, checking the   center board and trying not to stall the sail.  Yet those pesky fenders are dragging in the water, which everyone will tell you looks very un-seamanlike.  Otherwise, I’d be tempted to simply let them drag.
6. I hate fiddling with fender lines.  It seems they’re never quite right and always require more time than I care to give them.  I’m usually tired, worn out and sunburned.  I want the fenders right, but am frustrated when I’m required to putz around with them.

How about one simple system to solve all the above problems:  (drum roll please….)

4 fenders in total.  2 per side.  Safely and neatly stored.

They don’t get in the way of the oars when rowing.

By releasing 2 quick release buckles, the fenders fall into their proper position.

All it takes is 2 strap eyes per fender.  The fenders can be adjusted up or down, but the preset looks just about right.

I mounted one to the coaming, the other through the deck.  Both are through bolted using stainless hardware.

The quick release line gets a knot to keep it in proper position.

This makes boarding from shore or upon capsize much safer and more comfortable.  The hand hold on the veranda top comes in handy here.  Just sit down and throw your legs in.

Care to hike out?  The fenders should also provide a very comfortable arm rest when sailing.

And, it even make Scamp look more like a US Coast Guard approved battleship.  Fully equipped, ready for action.  This storage system also keeps the wet, slippery fenders outside your boat.

Summary:

I’m really curious what the extra floatation will do for Scamp when capsized.  One strap seems adequate to keep the fenders into proper position, but subsequent sea trials will tell the real story.  Fender deployment and storage is extremely fast and secure.  The adjustable fender straps make dock side adjustments a snap.