Hauling Boats - Roof Rack Options

[themartymac]

Hey All,

I'm looking for options for hauling my 13' inflatable boat with the Mav - just locally, not expecting any highway miles. Most obvious option seems to be a combo of bedrail-type raised rack with a third roof bar, or possibly just a pair of roof bars with a rear hitch tower (with or without bunks to connect them). Wondering who else has tried this, and any feedback or ideas you may have?

My Boat: also has folding fishing seats on pedestals installed now, and swing-up launching wheels on the back, so best hauled upright (motor removed).

Option 1 (Bed Rack with 1 roof bar - weight equally distributed):

Option 2 (with two roof bars to bear the bulk of the weight)

Not too interested in a motorized loader, but I was thinking I could possibly use the hinged mechanism of the hitch bar to make an improvised 'ramp' by connecting the roof bar and hitch bar with a couple of sliding bunks? Might make it easier to slide the boat on, then pivot the hitch to the locked upright position?

Any other ideas or interesting examples folks have come across?

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[themartymac]

Here is an example of using custom bunks to make a loading ramp.

Inflatable Boat Bed Ramp

 

[REDRUM]

https://www.reesetowpower.com/product/7018100_canoe-loader-trailer-hitch-mount

I bought this a couple years ago.
I worked pretty good.
Got it on sale for $45.
I think from home depot.com

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