My Hatch Cover Project! Steps/Pics/Details (1 hour, $13!)

[NorCal Boater]

After doing some research online, people hate the sunbrella hatch covers since they are a PITA to try and slide over! Not to mention.. you have to unlock the hatch, then go up to the bow and take them off.. or reach through and grab them. All of what I did can be done from inside without any issues or leaving the cabin.

I think you did a great job....for your boat. The idea of having a cover on the outside of the hatch is to protect the hatch material from the damaging effects of the sun. A cover on the outside will do that plus what yours does. PITA to remove....maybe but, the majority of the time a boat sits in the sun (or a covered slip). I have a 29 year-old boat and the forward hatch is a mass of cracks and checks. If during thes years it had your device the inside would be cool but if there had been a cover on the outside my hatch would be in much better shape.

Creative project though and nice job.

 

[jaywoodz]

I think you did a great job....for your boat. The idea of having a cover on the outside of the hatch is to protect the hatch material from the damaging effects of the sun. A cover on the outside will do that plus what yours does. PITA to remove....maybe but, the majority of the time a boat sits in the sun (or a covered slip). I have a 29 year-old boat and the forward hatch is a mass of cracks and checks. If during thes years it had your device the inside would be cool but if there had been a cover on the outside my hatch would be in much better shape.

Creative project though and nice job.

Thanks for the input, and you do bring up a good point!