I've seen several schemes for re-attaching lines run up to the bow under the deck. Why don't they just put a hatch up front so they can get back in later?

Someone told me the class rules prohibit an extra hatch. Then why not screw down an access plate? Would that still be a hatch?

I'm new to all this and trying to fix up an old boat. The original builder had sealed a section of deck at the bow down with silicone, but it was removed by the time I got the boat. I'm trying to decide now whether to glue it back, or screw it down, or what.

Thanks!

YES! I believe you can as long as the hatch covering material is the SAME as the deck. That is how I read the rule.[^]

Why not put a hatch in?

1. Adds weight
2. They leak
3. weakens the structure
4. not needed if you set up your boat correctly in the first place
5. puts trained baboons out of work (that have arms long enough to reach up there)

If your boat is not set up that way in the first place, you will either need that baboon or a lot of patience or have to cut a hatch (in that order)

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