Companion way Hatch - Swan 43
Dear Members,
My companion way hatch is veneer on top of plywood. Since the boat has had so many changes, I don't know if this is original. It needs to be rebuilt and I am tempted to introduce light to the cabin when the hatch is closed by building it of cast acrylic and teak. However, this may be more work that it is worth. So, what was originally provided; and do you have opinions about what's best?
Thanks,

Chris Mabel's Casse Tete 43/003

Chris:

The sliding companion way hatch is a veneered plywood as you had mentioned. An acrylic section sounds like an interesting idea for more light below but it will have to follow the slight radius of the hatch curvature.

I have a thick one piece Lexan wash board that I use in rough weather instead of the original hinged wood wash board to give light below.

Regards,

Hiro

Dear Hiro,

Thank you for your reply. The bad condition of my sliding hatch compels me to think about working on it sooner than later. This likely means, at least for this year, fixing what I have. Would you be able to send a picture of your hatch so I can compare to what I have. As I mentioned, there have been modifications to my boat, some good, and many not so good.

Thank you,

Chris

Chris:

Here's my companionway hatch.

Regards,

Hiro

Swan 43 hatch 1/2

Swan 43 hatch 2/2

Dear Hiro,

Thank you for posting the pictures.  Yes, that looks like my hatch, albeit in much better condition.  So, I think I will remove it, strip it, and add a new layer of teak veneer, and paint on 10-12 coats of varnish!

Chris