It will probably be awhile before I can get a new kayak but I've been wanting to research so when they money comes I'll have a better idea. I love my Manta Ray but I've always wanted a kayak that has the t handle type of hatches, not sure what they're called.

Should I be looking at kayaks with this feature or is it something that can be modified later? I would rather have everything sealed up and the screw on hatches are a pain to mess with and a bungy cord over a regular plastic hatch just doesn't feel safe to me.

The Native manta ray's are awesome but I sold mine because of the hatches. I just don't like the "tupperware" style.My Wilderness Systems kayak has really easily accessible hatches with thumb locks. I also have a Malibu kayak and that one has the the T handles on it. Maybe that's the one you are thinking about. Hope this helps and good luck

I think the malibu style hatch is what I'm thinking of, you pull them up and twist to open. Maybe I need to look at a flatter style deck with a center console hatch like that, I don't carry much but I would like it to be easily accessible and secure for if I ever flip.

Almost all the online kayak supply companies carry them and will give you a good choice of different shapes and sizes.

I know I can buy the hatch but how much a pita would it be to convert a hatch if it's even possible

I was thinking of finding a good kayak with hatches like those or possibly just building my own yak

EDIT: I think I am leaning more towards just saving up and building my own yak. I might not save money and I know it will take a lot longer but I think the end result will ultimately be a better fit than any mass produced yak I could buy.