Bilge Access Panels

[dwedeking2]

On a "new to me" boat, the previous owner left a hatch open and allowed rain water to get inside. This caused some damage to the cabin sole so I need to replace the flooring (not the structure wood, just the veneer) and one of the bilge access panels. This are made out of plywood with the flooring veneer. Since replacing all of them is a small square footage, I was thinking of doing it with a solid panel of PVC or something instead of epoxyed plywood. I figure this is more expensive but it's only 10 sq feet (and will not be needed again in my lifetime) at most the overall cost would be minimal. What type of materials should I look at that will support foot traffic?

[rognvald]

Check out "Starboard."
www.eplastics.com/starboard‎
Good luck and safe sailing.

[pcmm]

You'll probably find that the PVC is actually cheaper than replacing with Teak and holy ply! that stuff is murderously expensive! a full sheet of 1/4" teak and holly ply is close to $400 where I am!