| SJ23 Tech Tip C15, (Updated 2001-02-22) Bob Schimmel | |
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Companionway Weather Curtain. |
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 The purpose of this curtain is to keep the rain out
while creating quick access to the cabin in lieu of the drop boards. At night it creates some
ventilation but that is useful but only if you are immune to mosquitoes. I have propped the bottom out on a stick for shade while maintaining some ventilation. This is when you realize a dodger can come in handy. It is comforting to watch the cockpit pelted with rain while you sit cozy dry in the cabin. If the curtain is equipped with a clear vinyl window,
the crew below can keep an eye on the helmsman to determine when the
coffee is low! A major priority if you want to stay dry down
below! HINT - If the window is made from two layers of vinyl, creating a pocket that opens from inside, you have a handy map holder while sailing! Easy to roll up too. This should be very convenient for the helmsman. I haven't tried this mod yet but time permitting I may do it. You could also pin a water proof map to the outside of the curtain.
Below left is a view of the curtain rolled up, stored at the aft end of the slider. It is held up by a couple of Velcro straps.
CONSTRUCTION (1988) - The top of the curtain is attached to the aft end of the sliding hatch with a thin strip of wood and some screws set into the fibreglass. The dimensions of the curtain are the same as the companionway drop boards and can hang inside the drop board guides as shown below. The curtain is made of Sunbrella. A hem is sewn in the bottom, large enough to hold a 1" wood dowel. This makes it easy to roll up straight and adds form to the roll. Two Velcro straps at the top hold the roll against the sliding hatch. The rolled up curtain also nicely seals the top of the companionway boards to keep out most of the mosquitoes. When rolled up, the curtain is totally out of the way.
This curtain is a great place to attach a note. It
does not replace the safety and security
of rigid drop boards though. I like the looks and surprises I get
from my onboard company when it starts to rain and I don't have to rush outside for the drop boards. |
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