|
As Tongaboys pointed out, most modern catamarans already have these hatches. In French boats, it is required. It is interesting that they even comes with a bar that spans across the two latches to secure it from accidentally being opened and as a lock. But, if one examines the bar, it becomes apparent that if the boat is inverted, the bar slips off the handles and essentially "unlocks" the "escape" (really entry hatches). Pretty cool!
Brad, thanks! I had no idea of the purpose of those eye bolts on the bottom of my bridge deck! Now, I know! The PDQ may already have them also. The PDQ does have entry hatches.
If I were going offshore, I would, whether I took a life raft or not, set up my RIB as a survival platform also. I seem to recall an assessment by the Coast Guard about RIB being in many way (NOT ALL) superior to a life raft. I'd probably rig it with a sea anchor, ballast and cover. Not that difficult to do and it provides additional options. Then, I'd think hard about the life raft. Definitely an additional EPIRB though!
Cheers,
Keith
|