FAQ's

Walker Bay Boats

The Genesis RIBs have a removable tube system. Is there any danger of the tube separating from the hull when underway?

No. The tube attachment system is incredibly secure. The removable tube system is a key feature of the boat, for when the time comes, the tube can be replaced by an Authorized Genesis Dealer, rather than having to buy a whole new boat.

How do extreme temperatures affect the HIMC hull?

The award winning Walker Bay High Impact Marine Composite (HIMC) hull is incredibly durable and can withstand extreme temperatures.

Hot: Plastic may get softer when subjected to high temperatures, however, the boat has a good "memory" and will revert to its original shape once cooled.

Cold: Our boat hulls have also withstood impact testing in sub-zero temperatures, however we do recommend storing your Walker Bay® Boat indoors to prolong the life of the boat. Like other injection molded resins, Walker Bay's HIMC resin will become more brittle when subjected to colder climates. Therefore if you must store the boat outdoors, keep it covered & avoid storage areas that would subject your boat to possible impact.

How buoyant are your boats?

Walker Bay® Boats are unsinkable! To ensure your safety, it is important to follow the maximum capacity ratings set by the Coast Guard. These capacity labels are located on the transom of the boat.

Do I need to use an antifouling paint?

No. One of the greatest attributes of our High Impact Marine Composite (HIMC) injection molded hull is its inherent nonstick surface, making the need for an antifouling paint redundant.

The purpose of antifouling paint is to make it easier to remove barnacles and algae; it does not prevent barnacles from growing. Although barnacles and algae will eventually build up on the HIMC hull, they will remove easily with the use of a power washer or a scrubbing brush and mild liquid soap.

Citrus-based cleaners are excellent for marine cleaning purposes, and are safe for you and the environment. Household cleaners should be used sparingly and not discharged into waterways. Never mix cleaners and be sure to use plenty of ventilation in enclosed areas. Avoid using oily or abrasive cleaners. Read labels and instructions carefully to avoid products that could damage polypropylene or other plastics. DO NOT use products that contain phosphates, chlorine, solvents, non-biodegradable or petroleum based products. We do not recommend painting your Walker Bay boat.

Helpful Hint: WD40 does an excellent job of cleaning scuffmarks off the hull.

How do I clean the boat?

Give your boat a good cleaning regularly. We recommend any non-abrasive, all-purpose marine cleaner. Be sure to use a nylon scrub brush and lots of fresh water. (Power washers do a great job of getting at ground-in dirt and marine scuffing.) You may also use regular household, auto or boat cleaning agents but avoid using oily or abrasive substances. Read labels and instructions carefully to avoid products that could damage polypropylene or other plastics.

DO NOT use products that contain phosphates, chlorine, solvents, non-biodegradable or petroleum based products. Citrus-based cleaners are excellent for marine cleaning purposes, and are safe for you and the environment. Household cleaners should be used sparingly and not discharged into waterways. Never mix cleaners and be sure to use plenty of ventilation in enclosed areas.

Helpful Hint: WD40 does an excellent job of cleaning scuffmarks off the hull.

How does one attach decals to the HIMC hull?

One of the greatest attributes of our High Impact Marine Composite (HIMC) injection molded hull is its inherent nonstick surface. However, as little will adhere to it, be sure to clean the area where you will be attaching the decal on the boat, then use a fine grade sand paper to lightly rub the surface. Finally, clean the area with rubbing alcohol. The sticker should then hold.

What do you recommend for a roof rack?

Currently Walker Bay® does not carry a roof rack; however, we can recommend a custom rack by either "Yakima" (1-888-925-0703) or "Thule" (1-800-238-2388). These manufacturers can provide product information related to certain vehicles.

Please check the beam of your Walker Bay® Boat to ensure that the roof rack is wide enough.

What is the difference between Hypalon® & PVC tube fabric?

Walker Bay Rigid Inflatable Dinghy's (RID) are available in both Hypalon® & PVC tube fabric. For information on the difference between these two fabric options, please click here.

Will Ultra Violet (UV) rays harm my boat, tube or sail kit?

Boat: The award winning Walker Bay High Impact Marine Composited (HIMC) hull uses a specially formulated a UV protected resin. In addition, Walker Bay backs the High Impact Marine Composite (HIMC) hull with a 10 Year Warranty. See the Warranty Information section for more details.

Tube: Walker Bay® is one of the only inflatable boat manufacturers in the world to offer a choice in fabric options.

A Hypalon® tube offers greater resistance to UV rays and extreme temperatures than a PVC tube, however, Walker Bay recommends the using Tube Covers, Boat Covers and Storage Bags to avoid unnecessary exposure of the tubes to direct sunlight. See the Accessories section for more information.

Sail Kit: Due to the inherent nature of sail fabric, Walker Bay recommends storing your Sail Kit in a Walker Bay Sail Bag to avoid unnecessary exposure to UV rays. See the Accessories section for more information.

What is a Foamex® Transom?

A Foamex® Transom is a wood transom that is completely enclosed in PVC plastic, forming a waterproof cocoon to protect the transom from the damaging effects of water seepage. The watertighte envelop of a Foamex® transom offers better protection agains water than any paint or lamination coating.

What PSI should an Odyssey Air Floor be inflated to?

11.3 PSI

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Sailing

How well do the boats perform when under sail?

Walker Bay® Boats are a fun and affordable way to get out on the water for both beginners and old salts alike. Our head designer is a world class competitive sailor who is comfortable sailing the Walker Bay 8 to her limits in high wind (25+ kn.) conditions, however we recommend the average person to sail in winds of around 10kn. Walker Bay® Boats are unsinkable, easily maneuvered and a breeze to sail.

Is it possible to use a Walker Bay 8 Sailing Kit on a Walker Bay 10 Boat?

No, a Walker Bay 8 Sail Kit will not fit a Walker Bay 10 boat. The similarities between the two kits are the mast & the boom; NONE of the other essential sail kit parts (daggerboard, rudder, or mast support) are interchangeable. However, one would want to take advantage of the many newly designed performance features that are included with the WB10 Sail Kit as together they will provide for an optimum sailing experience.

How do I remove the seal in the daggerboard well?

When first assembling a sailing kit on a Walker Bay® boat, one will need to remove the plastic seal in the daggerboard well in order to make use of the daggerboard.

Step 1: unscrew & remove the keel cover plate

(WB8 only: remove the foam insert as well)

Step 2: flip the boat over & step inside

Step 3: use the dagger board to punch out the plastic seal

(WB10 only: remove the seat cap first)

Step 4: screw on the "open" keel cover plate (WB8 Only)

(WB 10 only: use the plastic dowel included in the kit to punch out the seal in the keel cover plate. This will create an "open" keel cover plate)

Tip: If you do not have the strength to carry out the above, try tapping around the edge of the seal with a Philips screwdriver and hammer first. The seal is designed to break away cleanly.

Neither the boat nor the daggerboard will be damaged by following these steps. Please be sure to follow all of the sail kit instructions as set out in the manual, as the above notes are to act as a supplementary guide only. Any questions? 1-888-449-2553 or contact us.

How do I get the rudder to kick up on an older model WB8?

Please note that previously, the kick-up mechanism on the WB8 rudder was deliberately designed to be difficult to kick up, as this feature is designed to act as a precautionary break release so that the motor mount and transom aren't cracked in the case of extreme impact. If the mechanism is too loose the rudder can kick-up unnecessarily and impede one's sailing performance. Therefore, we suggest attaching / detaching the rudder when you are in the boat, rather than attaching it before you launch and trying to lower / raise the blade from inside the boat.

What does one use to repair a tear in the sail or a crack in the gunwale?

Our boats are made of extremely durable material, therefore penetrating the hull is very unlikely. However, if there is a small crack in the hull above the water line, we carry a Boat Repair Kit (part #973000) that may seal it. We also carry a repair kit for sails (part#974000). Both kits can be special ordered through your local Walker Bay® Dealer or purchased directly through Walker Bay® Boats @ 1-888-449-2553 or info@walkerbay.com.

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Motoring

What size motor will I need?

See the Specifications page to find the motor rating for your Walker Bay Boat.

The US and Canadian Coast Guard has certified our boats safe with the HP ratings listed on the Specifications page . Walker Bay stands behind these ratings and cannot recommend using anything over and above the maximum. The Coast Guard has been known to issue a fine to a boater who disregards their maximum horsepower HP rating.

Where in the boat do I position the battery for a trolling motor?

We suggest positioning the battery either just behind or just in front of the mid seat to keep the weight forward. One option may be to strap the battery around the dagger board trunk.

When the Walker Bay 10 boat was designed, a small hole was put in the keel area just behind the dagger board trunk. It is possible to secure a battery tray using this attachment point, however one would have to be careful not to put a hole in the hull with the screw.

What Size Of Motor Will I Need For My Genesis 310 RT?

We recommend a 10hp however the transom is rated to 15hp. This question really depends on the main use of the boat. If you are transporting 4 people and working against a steady current it would be recommended to use a 15hp. The important thing is to have your outboard achieving its maximum rpm. Once you have this your boat will be performing and the engine will be running to maximum efficiency.

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After Purchase

What kind of warranty do you offer?

For warranty information please click here. You can extend the warranty on the hull and tube fabric (if applicable) up to 10 years by registering your boat online or filling out and sending in your warranty card.

If I lose a component to my boat or sail kit, how do I replace it?

You can "Special Order" replacement parts from your dealer (Please refer to our complete dealer listings under "Where to Buy") or contact Walker Bay® Boats directly @ 1-888-449-2553 or contact us.

Do I need to register my boat?

Some states require you to register your boat if it has an outboard motor on it. As every state is different, please refer to your local licensing agency.

If registration is required, you will need to bring a completed Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) to your local licensing agency. This form is found in the bag with your Owner's Manual, and should be completed by the retailer upon purchase of your boat.

If you purchased your boat 2nd hand, and you are required to register your boat, you will need the MSO and the original bill of sale from the original owner. The state agency may also require a bill of sale transferring the boat from the original owner to you.

If you purchased your boat via a catalog or the Internet, you can fax your request for a completed MSO to Walker Bay® Boats @ 1-888-228-7222. You will need to outline your request and include: your full name, address, phone number, email address (if possible), the Hull ID # of the boat, as well as the original sales receipt detailing the retailer's name, address, phone number and date of purchase. Please allow 14 business days to receive your completed MSO by mail.

What does one use to repair a tear in the sail or a crack in the gunwale?

Our boats are made of extremely durable material, therefore penetrating the hull is very unlikely. However, if there is a small crack in the hull above the water line, we carry a Boat Repair Kit (part #973000) that may seal it. We also carry a repair kit for sails (part#974000). Both kits can be special ordered through your local Walker Bay® Dealer or purchased directly through Walker Bay® Boats @ 1-888-449-2553 or info@walkerbay.com.

Can I purchase Walker Bay® products directly from the manufacturer?

Walker Bay is very committed to both our customer and dealer. We sell boats, sail kits and tube kits, and accessories through our worldwide network of dealers. To find a dealer near you please click here. In North America, accessories may also be purchased online or by calling Walker Bay Customer Service at 1-888-449-2553 or 604-682-5699.

Can I Buy A New Tube For My Genesis?

Yes you can, the Genesis tube is removable therefore if you have any puncture that cannot be repaired you can purchase a new tube from your local Genesis dealer. If you are also taking your boat to a hotter climate you could change the tube to a Hypalon if you have a PVC.

Can I buy direct from Walker Bay?

No. Genesis RIBs, Odyssey Inflatables & respective accessories are only available through our worldwide network of authorized dealers. To find a dealer near you please click here. If you are unable to locate a dealer near you, please contact our Customer Service department at 1-888-449-2553 (604-682-5699) or contact us.

Can I buy towing rings for my Genesis?

Yes. In 2007 Walker Bay will be selling glue on D-Ring patches so you can have a towing bridle set up. These patches are also available from most dealers who sell inflatable boats. Be sure to specify to the dealer whether you need Hypalon or PVC for both the material and the glue.

How do I store my boat in winter?

To ensure a long life for your boat, clean your boat prior to winter storage then store your boat indoors during winter months. Rigid bottom boats should be covered and left undisturbed as the HIMC hull can become brittle in sub-zero temperatures. Boat tubes should be deflated as changes in temperature will effect tube pressure.

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