Swan 47 aft companion way

Sarabande, my Mk2 47 has a top entry to the aft companionway. I note in other 47`s, some also have a vertical/washboard arrangement which would make access easier, (getting older, lifting knees up etc). Has anyone carried out this modification? Main sheet winch would have to be repositioned. Any comments or advice welcomed.

Rob Mably

Sarabande, my Mk2 47 has a top entry to the aft companionway. I note in other 47`s, some also have a vertical/washboard arrangement which would make access easier, (getting older, lifting knees up etc). Has anyone carried out this modification? Main sheet winch would have to be repositioned. Any comments or advice welcomed.

Hi Rob,
the solution you describe was adapted (to Nautor specs) by the previous owners of our 47. therefore can only offer pros and cons of having the washboard entry having had it from the outset.
pros: easier entry and easier service to cockpit.
better air circulation with washboard only open when humid
/raining.
cons: ladder cuts aft cabin in half
blocks easy access to freezer

we have made the ladder easily removable for access to freezer when loading but it is an issue.
we are looking for a solution to this so if you come up with any ideas they would be very welcome.
would be happy to send photos should this be of any interest to you. please advise and I'd be happy to post them quickly.

good luck and let us know what you come up with...
ciao,

jayne

Hi Rob, the solution you describe was adapted (to Nautor specs) by the previous owners of our 47. therefore can only offer pros and cons of having the washboard entry having had it from the outset. pros: easier entry and easier service to cockpit. better air circulation with washboard only open when humid /raining. cons: ladder cuts aft cabin in half blocks easy access to freezer we have made the ladder easily removable for access to freezer when loading but it is an issue. we are looking for a solution to this so if you come up with any ideas they would be very welcome. would be happy to send photos should this be of any interest to you. please advise and I'd be happy to post them quickly. good luck and let us know what you come up with... ciao, jayne

Thanks Jayne,

Yes I hadnt fully considered the steps. In fact mine only has 2 steps fixed to the bulkhead because I also have a generator in an extended box infront of the freezer compartment. Getting out into the cockpit already involves climbing on top before using the 2 steps to get out, so infact it would be made easier withh washboards.

I would be pleased to see your pictures

Kind regards

Rob Mably

Sarabande