Best Car-Topper Boats: Easy Hauling And Fun On Water

When it comes to choosing the best car topper boat, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the weight of the boat is crucial, as it needs to be light enough to be carried on the roof of a car without exceeding the vehicle's legal load capacity. The type of water body you plan to use the boat in is another important consideration—flat-bottomed boats are ideal for creek fishing and crabbing due to their stability and shallow draft, while dory-style tinnies offer more versatility and can handle a wider range of water conditions. Additionally, the size of the boat and the number of people it needs to accommodate will influence your decision. Other factors to keep in mind include ease of handling, the required outboard size, and the performance and stability of the boat.

Boat weight and vehicle roof capacity

When choosing a car topper boat, it is important to consider the weight of the boat and the roof capacity of your vehicle. Overloading a roof rack can cause serious problems, so it is crucial to stay within the weight limits of both the roof rack and the vehicle.

The weight capacity of a roof rack depends on the type of vehicle you have. Serious 4WDs like LandCruisers have a roof-carrying capacity of about 100 kg. Pop-top caravans have a similar capacity, while a ute with carrying frames can typically carry up to 130 kg. Some imported vehicles, like the F250 or the Silverado, have a roof capacity of more than 100 kg. It is important to refer to your vehicle's operating manual to determine its specific roof load capacity.

When it comes to car topper boats, there are a variety of options available in terms of weight and materials. Aluminium is a popular choice for car topper boats, and brands like Quintrex, Savage, Bluefin, Clark, and Stacer offer aluminium car toppers in their ranges. However, aluminium boats may be limited in layout options and features due to the nature of the material.

If you're looking for a lightweight option, the Integra Marine Solutions' 385 Escape Car Topper tinnie, weighing from 85 kg, is a great choice. It features a foam sandwich construction, large moulded hatches, and versatile storage compartments. Another lightweight option is the Stacer 319 Seasprite, which weighs only 58 kg.

For an even lighter option, you can consider inflatables, kayaks, or foldaway boats. While these options are limited in scope, they can be a good choice if you have a low roof weight capacity.

When choosing a car topper boat, it is important to consider not only the weight of the boat but also the weight of any additional equipment you will be carrying. Make sure to distribute the load evenly, focusing the weight in the middle of the boat to maintain stability and prevent capsizing or swamping.

In summary, when selecting a car topper boat, carefully consider the weight of the boat and your vehicle's roof capacity. Stay within the weight limits, choose a boat made from lightweight materials, and distribute the load evenly to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience.

Boat use: conditions and locations

Car topper boats are ideal for anglers who want to make the most of their trip to Australia's Top End. Whether you're travelling with a camper trailer or caravan, a car topper is the best option. While kayaks, inflatables, and foldaway boats are popular, they are limited in scope.

The weight of the boat is an important consideration, as it will impact your ability to transport it on the roof of your vehicle. A tinnie in the 3.5m to 3.8m range will weigh between 60kg to 85kg and is ideal for a 15hp outboard motor. Smaller boats may be restricted in where they can go once you get north of the Tropic of Capricorn, while larger boats will require a bigger, heavier motor.

The shape of the boat is another factor to consider. Flat-bottomed boats are great for creek fishing and crabbing due to their stability and shallow draft, but they can be uncomfortable on open water. Dory-style tinnies offer more versatility and can handle a wider range of water conditions, but they are less stable when stationary. Some manufacturers offer hybrid boats that combine the advantages of both designs.

When choosing a car topper, it's important to consider the conditions and locations in which you'll be using it. If you plan to use the boat in skinny water and shallow creeks, a smaller, lightweight boat like the Tinoo or Jon Boat may be suitable. These boats have a narrow beam, making them ideal for creeks and estuaries. Electric motors or very small outboards are adequate for these boats, and they are easy to load and unload.

If you intend to head offshore to close-in reefs, a larger and more stable boat may be necessary. The Catfish, with its wide beam and flat hull, provides increased stability and efficiency in smooth water. The Drifter, with its elliptical hull design, offers a balance between the stability of a punt-style boat and the performance of a dinghy. The Rascal, with its high sides and wide beam, is well-suited to various conditions and can handle croc-infested rivers.

Ultimately, the best car topper boat for you will depend on your specific needs and intended usage conditions. Consider the weight of the boat, the locations you plan to use it, the number of people it needs to carry, and the size and type of outboard motor required for optimal performance.

Ease of handling and loading

When choosing a car topper boat, ease of handling and loading is a crucial factor to consider. The weight of the boat is a significant determinant of how easy it will be to load and unload from the roof of your car. Most vehicles specify the maximum roof load capacity in their specifications, so it is essential to ensure that the weight of the boat, including the roof racks and any other equipment, does not exceed this limit.

When it comes to weight, lightweight boats are generally easier to handle and load. For example, the new 320 and 360 Wanderers from Telwater's Quintrex brand weigh only 50 and 53kg, respectively, making them easy to launch and load from the roof of a 4WD. Similarly, the Stacer 319 Seasprite, weighing just 58kg, is another lightweight option that can be easily managed by a single person.

The length of the boat also plays a role in ease of handling and loading. Smaller boats, such as the 3.10-metre Quintrex 300 Wanderer, can be more manageable, especially if you plan to fish alone. This compact boat offers a light lift for the car roof while still accommodating up to three people. However, as the length of the boat increases beyond three metres, it is advisable to consider a purpose-built roof rack and an unloader to assist with the task.

In addition to weight and length, the shape of the boat can impact ease of handling and loading. Flat-bottomed boats are stable and ideal for creek fishing and crabbing due to their shallow draft. However, they may not perform as well in open water, resulting in a less comfortable journey. On the other hand, dory-style tinnies offer more versatility and can handle a wider range of water conditions, but they may be less stable when stationary. Some manufacturers, like Makocraft, offer hybrid boats that combine the advantages of both designs.

Lastly, the size and type of your vehicle will influence the ease of handling and loading. Smaller SUVs, for instance, can easily accommodate the lightweight Tinoo model, which comes in 3m and 3.75m sizes. If you own a serious 4WD like a LandCruiser, it's important to note that the roof-carrying capacity is typically around 100kg. Pop-top caravans have a similar capacity, while a ute with carrying frames can handle a slightly higher load of up to 130kg.

Outboard motor size and performance

When choosing a car topper boat, it's important to consider the outboard motor size and performance. The outboard motor's weight and power will impact the overall performance of the boat, including its speed, manoeuvrability, and fuel efficiency.

Firstly, let's discuss the weight of the outboard motor. As mentioned earlier, the total weight of the car topper boat setup is crucial, as it needs to comply with the roof load limits of your vehicle. Outboard motors can vary significantly in weight, depending on their size and type. For example, a small electric outboard motor will weigh much less than a 15 or 20 horsepower (hp) petrol outboard motor. It's important to consider the weight of the outboard motor in relation to the weight of the boat itself, ensuring that the combined weight is within the limits of your vehicle's roof rack.

Now, let's talk about the performance of different outboard motor sizes. A larger outboard motor will generally provide more power and faster speeds. For example, a 20hp outboard motor can achieve top speeds of around 20 knots, as mentioned in the review of the Integra Marine Solutions' 385 Escape Car Topper tinnie. On the other hand, a smaller outboard motor, such as a 15hp Yamaha 2-stroke, will provide slightly reduced speeds but can be advantageous due to its lower weight.

When choosing an outboard motor, it's also important to consider the type of water conditions you'll be encountering. If you plan to use your car topper boat in calm waters like lakes and estuaries, a smaller outboard motor may be sufficient. However, if you intend to venture into rougher waters or need to cover greater distances, a more powerful outboard motor will be necessary. Additionally, the hull design of your car topper boat will also play a role in its performance. A dory-style or elliptical hull, like those found on the Blue Fin Drifter and the 385 Escape Car Topper, respectively, offer a balance between stability and performance, making them suitable for a wider range of water conditions.

Lastly, fuel efficiency is another important consideration when choosing an outboard motor. While a larger outboard motor may provide more power, it can also consume more fuel. In contrast, a smaller outboard motor may offer better fuel economy, allowing you to travel longer distances without refuelling. This is an important factor to consider, especially if you plan to use your car topper boat in remote locations or for extended periods.

Boat stability and design

Materials and Construction:

The choice of materials and construction design play a significant role in the stability and performance of a car topper boat. Aluminium is a popular material for car topper boats due to its lightweight and durable nature. Aluminium boats, often referred to as "tinnies," have dominated the car topper market for several decades. However, there are also boats made from other materials, such as fibreglass, resin-infused foam, and plywood. The type of material used can impact the weight, durability, and overall stability of the boat.

Weight and Load Capacity:

Weight is a critical factor when selecting a car topper boat. It is essential to consider the roof-carrying capacity of your vehicle. Ensure that the weight of the boat, along with any additional gear, does not exceed the specified roof load limit. Serious 4WDs, pop-top caravans, and utes with carrying frames have different weight capacities, so choose a lightweight boat that falls within the safe range for your vehicle.

Design Features for Stability:

Look for design features that enhance stability, especially if you plan to use the boat for fishing or in choppy waters. A wider bottom, often referred to as a flat-bottom hull design, adds stability and makes the boat less likely to tip over. Additionally, features like pressed-in longitudinal corrugation, corner transom braces, and extruded aluminium transverse ribs contribute to the overall structural integrity and stability of the boat.

Ease of Transport and Launching:

Consider the ease of transporting and launching your car topper boat. A lightweight boat will be easier to lift and manoeuvre onto the roof of your vehicle. Additionally, look for features like roof racks, boat loaders, and unloaders that can assist with loading and unloading the boat. Some boats also come with collapsible trailers, making it more convenient to transport and store your boat.

Customisable Layouts:

When it comes to car topper boats, the layout and design can vary. Some boats offer customisable layouts with large moulded hatches, casting decks, and versatile storage compartments. Consider your intended use and choose a design that suits your needs. For example, if you plan to store fishing gear or additional equipment, ensure the boat has adequate dry storage space.

Safety Considerations:

Always prioritise safety when selecting a car topper boat. Ensure the boat meets or exceeds NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) and U.S. Coast Guard requirements for flotation and stability. Look for features like foam buoyancy and flotation, which can provide added safety in the event of capsizing. Additionally, consider the environment in which you'll be using the boat, as certain areas may have specific safety concerns, such as crocodile-infested waters.

Frequently asked questions