Transporting pond prowler

[Johnf1]

I am considering getting the 8 ft. pond prowler, or another plastic pontoon of similar size.

My issue is transportation. trailoring is not an option.

can this kind of boat be car- topped? I have a large mini van with a built in adjustable roof rack, and the boat should fit on without hanging out at all according to my measurments.

What is a safe, stable way to secure the boat to the roof? Can this be done? Is it legal?

Thank you for any response.

[Grey Wolf]

Welcome.

[memo43]

welcome

you should be able to, I transport a 14 ft kayak as well as an inflatable10 ft (fully inflated) the same way. The only issue you might have is getting ratchet style straps an speed. you will create more drag on top, an speed will become an issue. Also being able to get ot off dry should be easy, but getting it on after it has been in the water might be tricky. Are you planning on doing this alone or with some help. Eihter way it is still very doable depending on physical strengh.

memo

[wasabi_VA]

I have an 8' model. It weighs around 140 completely bare if you remove everything. I am able to leave everything in it (including trolling motor and battery) and get it into the back of my truck. I realize your situation is different.

The weight alone is not that heavy (depending on age and ability) but it can be awkward because of the size. I would think 2 men could empty it and lift it onto the racks of a minivan. It would take a strong woman or teenager to assist you as I imagine you will have to lift it above your head to get it on those minivan racks.

If I was by myself I don't think it could be done if you were worried about scratching the van up a little. It could probably be done by leaning it up against the side or rear of the minivan then lifting the bottom end and sliding it on. It will want to slide left or right and flop off while you are doing this, sometimes it even does this while I am lifting it 4 feet into the back of my truck bed. Getting it down will present some challenges. I think one full grown and able man could do this on and off but am pretty sure over time you will drop it a few times. These things are tough plastic but not sure how well they will hold up to flopping off the top of a vehicle.

If you made a small platform to stand on that elevates you up a foot or two, that would help. A canoe or kayak would be easier to handle.

Given the risks I'd have to take my minivan to the place  would be getting the boat and try it before committing the cash.

[Johnf1]

I have an 8' model. It weighs around 140 completely bare if you remove everything. I am able to leave everything in it (including trolling motor and battery) and get it into the back of my truck. I realize your situation is different.

The weight alone is not that heavy (depending on age and ability) but it can be awkward because of the size. I would think 2 men could empty it and lift it onto the racks of a minivan. It would take a strong woman or teenager to assist you as I imagine you will have to lift it above your head to get it on those minivan racks.

If I was by myself I don't think it could be done if you were worried about scratching the van up a little. It could probably be done by leaning it up against the side or rear of the minivan then lifting the bottom end and sliding it on. It will want to slide left or right and flop off while you are doing this, sometimes it even does this while I am lifting it 4 feet into the back of my truck bed. Getting it down will present some challenges. I think one full grown and able man could do this on and off but am pretty sure over time you will drop it a few times. These things are tough plastic but not sure how well they will hold up to flopping off the top of a vehicle.

If you made a small platform to stand on that elevates you up a foot or two, that would help. A canoe or kayak would be easier to handle.

Given the risks I'd have to take my minivan to the place would be getting the boat and try it before committing the cash.

strenght will not be an issue. i will have pleanty of help