[C320-list] Inflatable dinghy

[Rick Sulewski]

Tony,
For us, the critical measurement was the dink length from the transom to the
bow so that dink would fit on the foredeck up against the mast and allow us
to access the anchor locker. Turned out that a Seaworthy 9 1/2 foot dink
worked best at the time we made a purchase decision. We off and on load the
dink from the bow by dropping the lifelines (installed quick release snap
hooks on the starboard side). We can stand the dink on its bow by pulling on
the lines we attached to the transom so the dink stands perpendicular (on
its bow) and we can then leverage the  dink and drag/slide it into position
on the deck. We tie off the transom to the mast to keep it from  wandering
around in heavy air/seas and the dink bow can easily be slid from side to
side to walk around the deck. Have also observed a 320 dink in our marina
stored on the swim platform (perpendicular, bow down) secured against their
stern pulpit, but that results in the loss of the swim platform, but could
prove to be an alternative.    

We use a 27lb 3.3 HP 2cycle motor attached to the starboard stern rail. To
make it more comfortable seeing over the dink while seated at the helm I
created a raised helm seat for less than $50 by attaching a folding back
cushioned seat to a wooden box I made with open end facing the helm for
temporary storage and  allows for a foot heel rest. The helm seat rests on
top of the center section stern insert and the seat is bunged to the stern
rail. The helm seat is stored in the cabin between trips with the seat
portion positioned under the cabin table like a chair. 
Rick
My-Ria #277

-----Original Message-----
From: c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com
[mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Tony Murphy
Sent: Sunday, July 01, 2012 9:28 PM
To: c320-list at lists.catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Inflatable dinghy

Looking at getting an inflatable dinghy and was curious if anyone has a
recommendation or opinion on size based on the following criteria... I would
like to be able to store it on the foredeck above the v-berth when not
towing it behind. Possibly even keeping it up there for short sails if it
doesn't interfere, rather than dropping it in the water. 

Would like a high pressure air floor, but might consider a roll-up. Looking
at possibly the Mercury 200 (6'7" long, beam 4'1") or the Bombard Air Floor
(7'10" long, beam 4'7"). Would like the largest that will fit, but a bit
worried about the larger one not fitting on deck. 


Tony
s/v Bella Sol
#886