i didn't want to open this thread again but i'm a kayaker so i might be able to help the thread starter or anyone who would come across this thread.

civic would do fine for your kayak, though i'm using a pickup for it, with the right roof deck, it will do fine. my friend who is also into kayak owns a prius and does not have any problems transport his kayak with a roof deck he purchased online. he actually has more problems with his pules star plug! very funny, eh?

hope that info helps!