2018 Award of Excellence Best in Category Sailboat Enclosures
Project:
A yacht enclosure combining a Spray Dodger with a Bimini to create an extended roof dodger and complete rear enclosure.
The owners request was to end up with more usable space on the upper deck of the yacht.
The area needed to be light and airy and have exceptional visibility through the windows. They also required clear access through the sides, including clearance for the winches to operate a full 360% turn. All the rear enclosure panels had to be replicated and interchangeable with mesh shade/mosquito screens.
What is unique or complex about the project?
The yacht was a challenge with height restrictions ranging from a very tall owner, potential solar panel mounting on top and a low boom. I stayed away from the traditional two part Dodger and Bimini and designed a combination of the two with less frame work, with using “T” fittings on the rear roof section to create greater access into the cockpit. The minimal frame allowed better and bigger clear panels for a greater range of visibility.
What were the results of the project?
The owners were stunned with the design, the incredible vision through windows, the usability and the finished results of enhancing the existing lines of the yacht. The creation of the extra room/space on the upper deck allowed for an all weather outdoor enclosure for entertaining. The yacht is now also much more comfortable for sailing in all conditions.
Project built in Stamoid, Macralon AR2, Tenara thread and Sunbrella.
Designed, fabricated and installed by Dave Elliott and Aaron Stumer.
