Let there be light!

[deniseO30]

err.. getting more light (and air) into the boat.

choices;

1- make or modify the existing companion way slider with plexi on top.

2- find small and pricey hatches and install above galley and other areas that are dark.

3- build skylight hatches with plexi, teak and or plastic lumber. using hinges and hatch hardware commonly available. (they must look good or equal to factory made types)

4 - Go to the depot and buy a skylight window, cut hole in roof of boat and use roof cement to seal the flashing? NOT! (But it reminds of the big green house like hatch you often see on old and large sailboats.

[SVCarolena]

Do you already have lexan or acrylic drop boards? We do and it does make a difference. Aside from that, I think hatches would be the best route. They can be expensive, but you can sometimes find old stock on ebay or other sources for a reasonable cost. If you are not looking for a direct replacement for an existing hole, that may work for you. Also check the Bomar website - they sometimes sell overstocks and old stock at a significant discount. Modifying the slider seems like a lot of work, or at least it would be on our our boat. One more idea would be to make a companionway cover our of sunbrella and install some isenglass windows. We made a sunbrella cover for ours to keep any water from coming between the hatch boards and to protect the teak, and it would be relatively easy to sew in some clear windows. You often see these with screens sewn in. I wouldn't want to use it with the slider open during a storm, but could be fine in good weather or a light shower.

[deniseO30]

Plexi drop boards would be a good thing to make. I have a dodger for the boat and that works nice but I hate the way it obscures navigation.
more to think about!