
One of the growth areas in the outdoor leisure market in recent years has been portable watercraft, with a flood of lightweight, durable plastic kayaks, canoes and sailboats hitting the market, aimed at those who enjoy more simple aquatic pursuits.
The only catch has been that if you wanted to take your human-powered micro-boat on holidays with you, you generally had to mount it on roof racks on either your car or RV.
But now there’s another solution, with a new, compact enclosed trailer that blends the convenience and comforts of a traditional camper trailer with enough interior space to safely and securely carry a couple of canoes.
Making its public debut at this week’s NSW Caravan, Camping & Touring Supershow, the Kayak Carrying Camper is a variation on an existing toy trailer available from NSW’s Pro Alloy Trailers.
But instead of tie-down hooks for a dirt bike or two, it featured a couple of removable racks on one interior wall, that can be used to securely transport kayaks or similar watercraft. ??The other half of the interior contained sturdy looking, double bunk beds bolted to the floor.
Other layouts are also available, including a raised double bed with kayaks mounted below.
Both the body and chassis are aluminium, with a pop-top, Australian-made canvas roof and drop-down tailgate for easy loading at the rear.
There’s also a side door at the front to access some internal shelving for odds and ends like fishing rods; floor carpeting and two LED interior lights as well as an outside light.
Power is provided by the latest ARK portable 12/240V power pack, which runs the 40 litre Engel fridge mounted on an external slide.
Underpinnings included a dual rocker arm axle system, 13 inch alloy wheels and electric brakes, although off-road suspension is available.
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Priced around $20,000, the display model also featured an external, drop-down picnic table, which supported a portable gas cooker, and an OzTent FoxWing awning.
With a Tare weight of just 500kg and ATM of 1450kg, the Kayak Camper can cope with a hefty payload, and could also be used to carry other bulky items.
The Kayak Camper was on display in Sydney alongside various fishing and paddle craft from Sydney retailer Paddle Pedal Sail, including the popular American Hobie brand.
For further details visit the Pro Alloy Trailers or Peddle Paddle Sail websites.