"Room with a view" - Enclosing the cockpit

[BrendanChandler]

\"Room with a view\" - Enclosing the cockpit

I am preparing my boat for Blue Water and plan to enclose the cockpit area so that it can be used as living area when the weather is not perfect.

I would welcome and advice/suggestions as to the design of this awning with sides etc which would zip to the sprayhood and fasten around the cockpit.

Is it possible to design it so that the roof can be used as a bimini when sailing in reasonable weather?

Thanks to anybody who replies.

Brendan

 

[mocruising]

Re: \"Room with a view\" - Enclosing the cockpit

Have a look at any modern Hallberg Rassy they have a cockpit enclosure with zips and windows both in the hard top and windscreen versions. I have had mine up in 30-40 knot winds with driven spray with no major problems.

 

[stretch33]

Re: \"Room with a view\" - Enclosing the cockpit

Answer is yes, can be done, mine was designed and drawn by chap on W Mersea, works for himself, havent had it made yet but not too long (saving up the pennies)

 

[snowleopard]

Re: \"Room with a view\" - Enclosing the cockpit

if you're starting from scratch the best thing is to link the sprayhood to a bimini which can be hauled taut so it will stand up to strong winds, even when sailing. then add zip-on sides. if you are in the caribbean you will lie to the trades with the sun on your starboard side during the day and astern in the evening so you'll need removable screens to protect you from the sun on these sides.

it's also very usful to be able to close off the front to stop rain driving in so you can sit in the cockpit when it rains as it gets very stuffy below. plastic windows in the side screens can be nice when the sun isn't shining.

i think the ideal combination would be plastic windows in the side screens with covers you can roll down over them, in a dark material.

 

[BrendanChandler]

Re: \"Room with a view\" - Enclosing the cockpit

Thanks everybody for helpful advice.

Brendan

 

[Oldhand]

Re: \"Room with a view\" - Enclosing the cockpit

Or just get a Malo which comes with a proper covered cockpit living space with standing headroom held in place by a very solid arch - advantage of an aft cockpit.

 

[summerwind]

Re: \"Room with a view\" - Enclosing the cockpit

Yes, strongly agree about "Curtains" for the windows, especially when the sun is getting lower.

What about mozzie nets on the windows let the air through but not the insepts? Does anyone think they are needed?