Pocketship - cockpit and hatches

Builder's Forum
1

I’m building a pocketship and I’m at the point where I am ready to install the cockpit deck. I plan to install 2 Bomar hatches for the lazarette as suggested in the manual. I’m thinking of the following changes -

  1. Add a 1/4 inch trim around the hatch opening to improve their water-tightness (suggested by Brent of IdahoPocketship)
  2. Add a plank floor on top of the deck using 3/8 inch cedar. This would give it a more traditional look and also provide a more level surface with the hatches. I’ll use cedar as I have a good supply at hand, it’s light and rot resistant. I’m also considering SeaDek - a synthetic teak flooring. I’ve seem some of this that looks pretty good.

Comments?

(Waiting for the pocketship forum to return)

2

So, raise the hatches off the deck by 1/4”? I’m not sure if it’s worth the effort. I sealed my hatch rims to the deck with butyl tape and I don’t think it will leak through the joint. But it can’t hurt to do it I guess.

I put gray sea deck on my deck area as I found the painted surface too slippery. A sudden gust would make you scramble. It also gives enough cushion (IMHO) to be comfortable on a long day. I would recommend that route.