Can Canoe be Mounted Upside Down on Thule Hullavator for Lift Assist

Question:

Can Thule Portage Canoe Rack be attached to Thule Hullavator? Another option could be Malone Bigfoot Pro Canoe Carrier. It looks like it would fit on Hullavator if Hullavator cradles are not installed to Hullavator. Looking for side loading assistance to load Kevlar 30 pound solo canoe on top of van with high roof line. Problem isn’t the weight of the canoe. Roof height is too high to reach for tie down straps. Surprised side loaded kayaks are being loaded with cockpit facing up where rain can accumulate inside kayak increasing load weight on top of roof. Want canoe hull loaded on top of vehicle with hull facing upwards.

asked by: Robert W

Expert Reply:

Sure can't!

The only adapter for the Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier # TH898 is for the mounting part of the rack - Thule doesn't make any alternative cradle-type accessories to fit on top of the Hullavator Pro. Kayaks usually have a cover that fits over the cockpit which is why they can be transported with the hull down. Since canoes tend to be heavier and have a much larger opening on top it's better for them to be transported hull side up.

What I recommend doing is using the Thule Portage # TH819 for the canoe and then the Rhino-Rack Universal Load Assist # RR-RUSL to help you load the canoe on top of your van. This isn't as nice and easy as the Hullavator but it essentially gives you a 3rm arm to help support your boat while you get it on the roof.

Attached are some videos for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G