The cabin of the Figaro 5 is wide (2.20 m) and relatively long (1.90 m) but the absence of a roof means that the height under the bars is measured! The 2 berths in the tip are placed very low and the benches on either side of the companionway allow you to hope to keep your head up when sitting, if you are not too tall...
Most of the open spaces contain polystyrene blocks to ensure buoyancy in case the boat fills with water. Only the rear area under the cockpit and in the lockers is more generous.
Textile socks for all uses
The layout is therefore minimal and the bulk of the work after painting consists in redoing the cushion covers. I kept the original foam, which turned out to be a mistake. They would have deserved to be firmer and cut more tightly, in order to fit better against the planking.
To complete the storage and while the sewing machine is out, I make textile racks from sailmaker's scraps. I make stern and cockpit pockets, tote bags for clothes, a bottle rack and even a support for a small trash can. These accessories are held in place by stainless steel snaps that allow easy removal and washing.
Optimization of the space for the nautical camping
The aft bulkhead has several openings that allow access to very deep spaces where I can stow oars, gaff, sails and all the safety equipment. Under the bridge deck at the top of the stairs, there is a small kitchen with a built-in basin that I keep. I add a gas stove, not without lining the panel above with a metal firewall. The entire kitchen kit is contained in a plastic tray, which is supported by a varnished wooden countertop. Underneath, the space on either side of the daggerboard allows me to store the water and gas jerry cans, but also shoes and other odds and ends. Enough to spend a few nights on board, as long as each member of the crew takes care to move to their own boat
A dual-purpose door and storage organization
I had cut a new door of descent in Plexiglas. I pierced it with a ventilation grid, while I equipped the other side with small violins. It will be used as a table at the stopover by wedging it on the descent step. I screw on the rail, a wooden lock which will block the panel against the planking when sailing and will allow to slide the marine chart behind.
on board such a small boat, comfort is precarious and the slightest mess is immediately a problem. Knowing this, I adopted all the solutions that seemed to me likely to facilitate a semblance of organization. I stretch a rope to hang ends and iron, I put plastic trays at the bottom of the trunks to hold the victuals and finally I open large inspection hatches in the cockpit's compartments. This space becomes available for the mooring lines and fenders, but will also allow a good ventilation during the winter.
Economy of means and energy sobriety...
An electrical circuit would have meant wires, a battery and an efficient charging system. I preferred to keep things simple, using battery-operated LED bars for lighting. Their consumption is ridiculous and the plastic clips allow them to be oriented and moved wherever they are needed. The navigation light is also autonomous and is fixed on the opening of the anchor locker. Without being free of any blind spot, it remains clearly visible from the entire horizon. As a complement and to recharge the digital devices, I use an external battery of 15000 ma which ensures up to 5 recharges of smartphone or camera.
Optimization even on the road trailer
To make the boat really transportable, I also look at the trailer. I opt for magnetic lights that stay in place even in the worst bumps. On the slipway, they will just have to be moved on the winch mast to avoid them taking water. As the trailer has no anchorage, I bolt some chain links on which the strap will hook reliably. I got tired of climbing the transom during the work, so I cut a mini ladder with a few steps at the top, which will facilitate the access to the boat during the launch preparations. It is not so easy to mast alone, even if the mast foot is articulated on its root. I use a gallows system, a simple mast with a V that is attached to the rudder paddle and supports the mast in a horizontal position. During the hoisting, the spinnaker halyard secures the whole thing while the forestay is hooked.
euros at all times during the renovation, I take care to lighten, or at least not to weigh down the boat. For the sailing performance of course, but also so that the hitch remains safely towable by my modest-sized vehicle. An attention to detail that will make my teammate giggle when she discovers the dish sponge cut in half size to fit the boat...
