<![CDATA[Cruisers & Sailing Forums - Auxiliary Equipment & Dinghy]]> https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/ en Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:10:25 GMT vBulletin 60 https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/images/misc/rss.jpg <![CDATA[Cruisers & Sailing Forums - Auxiliary Equipment & Dinghy]]> https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/ Deleting deck hatches https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f117/deleting-deck-hatches-300628.html Wed, 10 Jun 2026 08:03:29 GMT Hi everyone, I am currently finalizing the deck specifications for my new 45ft catamaran build. The current factory design includes three standard... Hi everyone,

I am currently finalizing the deck specifications for my new 45ft catamaran build. The current factory design includes three standard glass/acrylic deck hatches on each hull side. However, I am planning to heavily modify this layout for better structural integrity, leak prevention, and privacy.

Here is my proposed configuration:

Forward Hatch (Keep & Enlarge): I want to keep only the forward-most hatch on each side, which opens into the storage compartments and brings in fresh outside air. In fact, I want to enlarge it to the size of a standard emergency escape hatch so that I can easily move large gear, sails, and supplies in and out of the storage hold.

Midship & Bedroom Hatches (Remove): I am planning to completely remove/delete the midship hatches (above the heads/walkways) and the bedroom hatches, opting for a solid, unbroken fixed deck instead.

My reasoning for removing the midship and aft cabin hatches is to completely eliminate tripping or falling hazards when they are open, as well as to maximize cabin privacy.

For those who have extensive offshore cruising experience: Should I proceed with removing these midship and cabin hatches entirely, or is there a compelling reason to keep them (e.g., ventilation that can't be achieved via opening portlights/Dorades)?

I would love to hear your thoughts on this layout.

Best regards,

Best regards,
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]]> baefam https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f117/deleting-deck-hatches-300628.html Finding and repairing air leaks on a WM RIB https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f117/finding-and-repairing-air-leaks-on-a-wm-rib-300561.html Fri, 05 Jun 2026 23:11:28 GMT I bought a used West Marine 2014 model RIBHYP350 12 ft inflatable. 2 of the 3 air compartments have slow leaks. I found and fixed one leak. As work... I bought a used West Marine 2014 model RIBHYP350 12 ft inflatable. 2 of the 3 air compartments have slow leaks. I found and fixed one leak. As work proceeds I anticipate coating many places on the tubes. Question : Is the coating called "Liquid Rubber". by Sea Fit work well? Does the widely advertised product called ". Flex Seal" work well in this application? Is there another way besides the soap bubble way to find leaks? Thanks all. ]]> geoleo https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f117/finding-and-repairing-air-leaks-on-a-wm-rib-300561.html <![CDATA[availability of 5 galion 'jerry cans' in Panama]]> https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f117/availability-of-5-galion-jerry-cans-in-panama-300310.html Tue, 19 May 2026 18:31:14 GMT Once we transit the Panama Canal, can we find these cans used ? We will be doing multiple offshore passages and need to carry extra fuel. Or should... Once we transit the Panama Canal, can we find these cans used ? We will be doing multiple offshore passages and need to carry extra fuel. Or should we just buy them beforehand in a new condition. A quantity of them is quite expensive to say the least. ]]> hatteras53 https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f117/availability-of-5-galion-jerry-cans-in-panama-300310.html Simpson Davit (Manually operated) Dimensions and operation? https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f117/simpson-davit-manually-operated-dimensions-and-operation-300225.html Thu, 14 May 2026 08:26:10 GMT Hi, we are looking into a Davit system. Initially I wanted to built a lightweight aluminium solar arch with a hoist, but now we found a very... Hi,


we are looking into a Davit system. Initially I wanted to built a lightweight aluminium solar arch with a hoist, but now we found a very reasonable priced set of Simpson Davit. The seller says it's in very good condition and according to him it's the Model 95.


Overall it might be a lighter and cheaper solution and we could still mount two solar panels on them.


The question I have is, they have these slide out extensions.
Our dinghy ways about 100kg with outboard and fuel tank.
Can it be attached to the outer end of the extended arm and lifted and then when up, slid in into it's final storage position in a controlled manner?


It seems like the main rollers come in at the outer end of main arm and not at the extension, which I find weird


How are these extensions practically used?


Anyone have a dimensional drawing of this specific model?


Thanks for your help.
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]]> Catamarangirl https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f117/simpson-davit-manually-operated-dimensions-and-operation-300225.html