Installation of a Kayak Hatch

Most sea and touring kayaks have storage hatches. These compartments are isolated from the cockpit and provide both dry storage and ballast for the kayak. Use the hatches to haul and isolate food, gear and equipment. Because the hatch is part of the kayak, you do not "install" it as much as prepare it for use by making sure the gasket is sealed and tight, and the hatch closing mechanism is secure. There are three typical closure systems for kayak hatches: webbing and metal loop, plastic quick-clip, or hook-and-loop fabric straps.

Things You'll Need

  • Hatch gasket
  • Hatch top
  • Neoprene covers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the hatch covers from the kayak hatches. If the kayak is brand-new, look for the hatch lids in the storage compartments or in the cockpit. Place the hatch covers over the proper-sized hatches on the kayak top to make sure they align with the hatch openings.

    • 2

      Look around the outer edges of the kayak hatches and see if the rubber gaskets (usually black bands) are around the hatch combings. If not, locate the gaskets in the kayak's storage hatch or cockpit. Make sure you align the gaskets with the proper hatches.

    • 3

      Wrap a gasket around each hatch. The gasket adds a watertight seal to the storage hatch and is essential for the watertight storage area to function.

    • 4

      Stretch the neoprene covers over the hatches. Locate the neoprene covers in the hatches or cockpit (if the cockpit is new). Like the lids and gaskets, the neoprene covers are sized to the hatches. Make sure you use the proper covers for the hatches.

    • 5

      Place the hatch lids over the neoprene, bring the metal loop over each hatch and slide the opposite strap through the loop. Pull back to tighten and lock each hatch closed. If your kayak hatches have plastic quick-clips, join the male end to the female end to secure the hatch. Push the hook-and-loop fabric (such as Velcro) together, if your kayak is so equipped, to secure the hatches closed.