The Dragorossi stern hatch system is more than a simple easy access opening. It’s an entire structural system that’s part of the function, structural integrity and ease of using our creek boats.

The first, and most obvious advantage is access to the back of the kayak. Even with low-back seats and “easy to move” backbands, the stern of kayaks has a 3” wide central wall which takes up more relative space than its actual size due to cutting the area in two sections. The hatch comes off in seconds, and a spray skirt just like the one that seals you into your kayak keeps everything in the back dry. How watertight you ask? As dry as your sprayskirt keeps water out!

But the system only starts there. The back of the boat is sealed off with a bulkhead right behind the seat. The hull integrity that this gives a submerged shell far more structural integrity than a longitudinal beam (such as a wall). This is sealed off to make an airtight chamber in the rear which also acts to keep the swamped kayak afloat. Air bags can come out, but this air is a sure thing to save your kayak.

Lastly, we run an air tube from the rear compartment to the seat which the paddler can reach if pinned underwater. This takes your rescue time from just a minute to almost 5 minutes - making all the difference in a rescue situation.

Anyone who has used the hatch system swears by it, whether its for expedition use, or simply carrying your safety gear and camera equipment without it rattling about,