How to Tie a Canoe on a Car Roof
If you enjoy the lake or mountain streams, it is likely your vehicle will be carrying a canoe on the roof. The safest procedure for you and others on the road is to ensure that the canoe is secured to the roof rack with heavy roping, straps and quality knots.
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Things You'll Need
- Roof rack
- Large towel or blanket
- Foam/boat cradles
- Top quality polypropylene or nylon rope, 1/4 inch to 1 inch in diameter
- Scissors or knife
- Tie-down straps
- Duct tape
- Red flagging
Instructions
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Tie a Canoe to a Car Top
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1
Add a roof rack to the car. If you are going a short distance and only plan to transport a canoe once, you can opt out of the rack. If you carry items frequently on the car roof, invest in a rack.
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2
Place a large towel or blanket on the roof. This provides a soft cushion and prevents scratches to the top of the car. Include foam cradles (about $15-20) or actual boat cradles ($100) as extra support.
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3
Measure the length of rope from the front bumper to the boat (remembering to include slack to secure the bow) and then back to the front bumper. Do the same for the back bumper. Factor in loops and any knots/double knots in the length to determine the amount of rope needed. Depending on the size of the canoe and vehicle, a 50-foot length rope should be sufficient. Cut through the rope with a knife or scissors.
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4
Wrap one piece of rope around the boat bow and securely tie one end to the front bumper on the passenger side and tie the second rope end on the driver's side. Repeat for the stern and back bumper. Secure the canoe to the vehicle with a trucker's hitch knot.
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5
Wrap several tie-down straps around the boat and secure to the roof rack for additional security.
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6
Wrap duct tape around all knots to keep them secure and tight. Place a red flag (handkerchief, tape, streamers) on the stern of the boat to warn vehicles behind you that you have a roof-top large load.
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Tips & Warnings
Double and triple check the security of the canoe and your knots before you take to the road.
Use top-grade quality rope only.
