There are two aspects here regarding to the TI. 1. Realistic maximum weight carrying capability (ignoring legalities). The 600# CE certified limit relates WEIGHT ADDED TO the centre hull only (as Hobie cannot presume that the amas have not been removed), SO THE WEIGHT OF THE HULL(S) IS not deducted from the totaL*. Each ama can support approximately 250# without submerging (personally verified). Even assuming that the main hull cannot support more than the Hobie specification (my guess it is at least a further 150#). I have seen a photo of a TI carrying two people, with the main hull totally flooded, and they were still able to sail! OK, so doomsday scenario is a total of around 1100# I have added six pool noodles inside my hull (fit up along the side rails), which alone provide enough buoyancy to keep the 2 people afloat...
2. Practical maximum weight The 600# is not going to be much of a problem given the reserve total buoyancy of 500# from the amas.. Performance won't be sparkling, but you won't be sailing a leadmine either.
Of course, if you really want to carry more weight, towing a cheap "toy" inflatable raft can handle extra camping gear
* The DWL by definition must include the weight of the empty vessel, so carrying capacity is >additional<
_________________ Tony Stott 2012 Tandem Island "SIC EM" with Hobie spinnaker
|