Hatches allow entry into the storage compartments which are created by the bulkheads. The stern hatch is made from the same resilient ABS material that is used in bulkheads. The hatch is rimmed with a hollow neoprene gasket that fits snugly into a deep molded groove in the stern deck. When the hatch is secured in place, the gasket is compressed, resulting in an excellent watertight seal. Stern hatches are pulled snugly into place by a special crisscross webbing system.
Many kayaks integrate a round or oval rubber type hatch system in the forward deck.
These hatches are easy to use and give a sure seal. Other models have large-access, flush hatches with the same hollow neoprene gasket system used in standard stern hatches. These hatches are held down with a cam-lock buckle system that, when locked, completely compresses the gasket giving an extremely dry seal. A marine sealant is used to bond and seal the extrusion to the deck and hull. A heavy bias-weave fiberglass seam is laminated inside the kayak along the extrusion.