Here was my solution....inflatable..
http://www.rei.com/product/850028/advanced-elements-airfusion-elite-kayak           woody 
"keep on pushin"

> 
> <<My question regards the best way to safely carry a 12 foot kayak on the roof
> of my Westy. I think I would prefer a solution that would allow me to open
> the roof without having to take the kayak off, but I would love to hear all
> of your ideas.>>
>