I’m duplicating a post I just put up on the GDG to compare how it feels in both places. The post is… (the elves moved it to the Q&A category)
When I go up on the cabintop (mainly when it’s time to put away the sail), I frequently find myself slipping when the lines leading back to the cockpit roll under my feet. Often my foot slides down all the way to the grabrails before I catch myself. Both a fall risk and not good to be pushing the rails sideways with 200 lbs of me.
It might help if I could pull the lines taut, but since this is when I’m tidying up the sail, it’d be premature to do so.
I’m trying to think of modifications that would improve stability and security up there, and would appreciate any suggestions folks have. I’d also appreciate feedback on the options that have occurred to me, which are:
Build some kind of cover for the lines to run under, like a number of newer boats have designed-in. Pros: would solve the problem if the covers were suitable non-skidded. Cons: hard to build solid and make look good, risk of lines tangling and inaccessible to clearing.
Run some kind of “toerail” or foot bracing on the cabintop, outboard of the lines and inboard of the grabrails to catch my feet. Pros: easy to do with spare 1" x 1" PlasTeak that I have lots of from a previous project, potentially sturdy. Cons: not very aesthetic, need to make sure they don’t trap water, may or may not be sufficient.
Improve the cabintop non-skid so my feet catch sooner. I’m not sure non-skid paints would be sufficient given the cabintop curvature. So this would probably entail putting either one of the synthetic wood deckings like Marine Dek, or installing Treadmaster. Pros: would definitely increase security, and the synthetics can look very good. Cons: expensive, add weight, and would rule out Treadmaster if I care about looks.
Advice, please?
Thanks,
– Bob
Me Gusta
Nonsuch e26U #233