Imagine a new backboard
Now that he has finalized the shape of his new roof, Matt is tackling Duracell's cockpit and transom. By enlarging the coachroof, the cockpit has shrunk to a mere 5 feet long, which is not enough room for a 60-foot cruising monohull. Matt's specifications include being able to use the cockpit for short-handed sailing, installing the helms, winches and various fittings, as well as welcoming his deck neighbors for drinks and having easy access to the water.
Fortunately, the original Duracell transom is steeply sloped. Matt will be able to save space without making the boat longer.
Rely on the boat's shape plan
To design his new cockpit and the boat's new profile, Matt can rely on the naval architect's shape plan. All he has to do is extend the curves. After a paper test, he validates his choice at real size by placing small battens along the hull and creating a false transom pair. The exterior geometry is validated.
Be inspired by existing boats
For the precise shape of the transom and access to the water. Matt looks at boats of similar size in marinas. If he wants to keep an open cockpit, he insists on wide access steps. The next few episodes should quickly shed light on his choices!
Once the bar system that was cluttering up the hold was removed, Matt set about his first sanding job.
