: Hi, I want to cut the fore and aft hatches in my strip built Guillemot, but
: before I take saw to deck I thought I would ask if there is any theory on
: hatch location that I should understand first.

: Obviously, the front hatch must be far enough forward to ensure that it is in
: the front hull section (bulkhead is not yet in) and that there is room for
: my feet. Should it be close to the bulkhead or more centered? What about
: the rear hatch - close to the bulkhead (and cockpit) or keep it back a
: bit).

: Maybe I am being too anal about this but there is a small part of me not
: quite ready to chop two big holes in the deck. Any suggestions
: appreciated.

: Luciano

I usually put in my fore-hatch about two inches in front of the bulkhead. Mainly for the reason Bill mentions, but also so that I can reach through a screw hatch in the bulkhead to service and move the footpegs. (very handy if someone is already in the boat and can't adjust the pegs themselves - also if the pegs get jammed). The rear hatch I put in about 16 - 20 inches behind the cockpit to allow for some bungie rigging behind me.

Et