How to replace the sea bream box?
Things have changed, and few builders still equip their boats with ventilation systems worthy of the name. Instead, they simply place polycarbonate hatches on the deck or roof. These can be opened to catch the wind and cool the interior in hot climates. And, for those for whom that's not enough, " Take the "air conditioning" option and its indispensable counterpart, the diesel generator! "So obvious...
Air to breathe
Ventilating the interior of a boat without worrying about water from the sky is a headache. Of course, many boaters don't opt for the expensive route and look for ways to maintain considerable airflow, even if the rain gets in the way. A few ingenious inventors have tackled the problem and come up with removable canvas solutions that capture a lot of wind and generate appreciable cooling. But, alas, this always comes with the obligation to close everything up when that pesky tropical squall appears.
A deflector that stays put
Here's an innovative idea. It's a rain deflector that has the advantage of being able to stay "on station" when a squall tries to wet our bunks.
This "over-hood" device is within the reach of any good handyman, and is simply fitted over an ajar hood.
A "rigid box" above the hood
The "box" can be made of plywood. The example shown here is suitable for Lewmar hoods. The flattened "U"-shaped part is wedged into the groove of the hood frame on the deck, where it is held in place by a 3-mm diameter garcette fastened to one of the gun screws (from the inside). For the more ingenious, it may be worthwhile to make the "box" removable, as it takes up a considerable amount of space.
We recommend removing the "box" and closing the hood before going to sea.
Aerator section, side view: the 3 "X" dimensions must be of equal length.
Tested in strong winds
This system is ideal for anchoring, but not for sailing. It can withstand squalls of up to 40 knots without water entering the cabin, but is totally unsuitable for storms and hurricanes. Likewise, in a marina, if you're not facing into the wind, it's useless (except for artistic decoration, in which case, it can " look nice "But that's not the original aim...).
