Cockpit icebox access

[Barquito]

I have a Bristol 27 that has a hatch that lifts off from a cockpit bench that allows access to the icebox. I love Carl Alberg boats, but, what the h*ll was he thinking? The lid is uncomfortable to sit on, is wobbly enough that is is a hazard to step on, and would be a downflood risk if the lid flew off. Maybe this was a manufacturer request rather than on the original plans?

[mm2187]

Sounds like an option a sailor would add.

[marcusc130]

I had a cheoy lee Bermuda 30 with the same setup. The hatch wasthe same as any of the other cockpit lockers. I don't think there was much risk of it flooding as the icebox drained into the cockpit scuppers.

I actually liked being able to get to the beer from the cockpit, very convienent.

[mitiempo]

Pearson Tritons had cockpit access as well.

[CalebD]

My Tartan 27' from 1967 has that 'feature' as well.
On my "to do" list is to rip out the ice box and seal the opening in the cockpit seat.
Sure it is convenient to sit in the cockpit, open the lid and grab another beverage but I hate it for a variety of reasons.
1 - cool box is next to engine compartment and is poorly insulated
2 - cool box makes engine access tortuous (this is reason enough to rip it out)
3 - ours has leaked rainwater into the cabin before
4 - a portable cooler does all I need and want with less ice
5 - getting up off my azz to get a beer insures that I can still walk

[mitiempo]

The Tartan 27 is the other boat I was trying to think of.

[Barquito]

I imagine a knockdown to starboard, the access lid falls off (it doesn't even have hinges, or latch), the icebox quickly fills with Lake Michigan, the four 1/4" screws holding the icebox door latch fail... now the party starts.

[GaryHLucas]

Is it really a hatch to get things out? Or is it a hatch to lower a large block of ice into the ice box?

Gary H. Lucas

[dacap06]

The top of the port cockpit bench in the Islander 30 Bahama is a hinged lid that allows access to the icebox. It also has a latch to keep it closed in case of a knockdown. It is perfectly stable to stand on and is not at all wobbly. I find it very handy for dumping ice in the icebox but I don't use it much to get things out.

[Barquito]

Is it really a hatch to get things out? Or is it a hatch to lower a large block of ice into the ice box?

Both, I suppose. The opening is about 8"X10". Someday, I will probably glass over the thing. For now, I am re-doing my non-skid, so I am going to make a smaller area of non-skid on the lid as a reminder not to step on the edges of the hatch. I might try to come up with some way to latch the lid.