Islands 17 Spongy Deck

[Ei Leen]

I recently got an Islands 17 (Ocean Yachts) that needs a bit of TLC. I am completely new to sailing and could use some help. My first question has to do with a small hole in the deck and a spongy area under the deck that I discovered after cleaning out 3 years worth of wet leaves. I guess the mmost crucial question is, does anyone know if there is any wood in the hull of this boat? I don'tt think there is but I am not positive. Next, if there is no wood, how should I address the problems? . The hole is small and could easily be patched. The spongy area is approx. 9x9" in the back corner next to the bench seat. It does support my weight and the deck surface itself is sound. It's just that whatever is underneath is giving way slightly.

Next ...... any mentoring offered on taking inventory of all the rigging and figuring out what I need would be greatly appreciated. I feel very stuck in that respect

[Gene T]

Core is rotten. Decks are generally made with a sandwich of fiberglass on each side with plywood or end laid balsa wood in between. When water gets in the wood rots. Proper repair involves cutting the deck open from above or below, replacing the bad wood and re-glassing. Stop gap repairs involve drilling holes and injecting acetone into the wet core. The acetone evaporates rapidly and takes the water with it (for the most part). The thinned epoxy is injected in the holes. This is still a lot of work and results in a so-so repair. Or - live with it if it's not a safety issue.

Don't know the boat so can't make any real suggestions on using it, but you need someone local to help you figure it out. Find a local sailor that can show you the ropes, so to speak.

Patience, be careful and have fun.

Gene