by talbot » Wed Jun 18, 2014 12:24 pm
First, is there a way to transfer the recent posts to a "sleeping aboard" topic? Because the topic has changed, and the subject is important.
Second, I think the issue of covering the boat is trivial compared to finding a place to lie down. The whole sleeping aboard issue has been partially addressed in bits and pieces over the years, with no one apparently very satisfied. (How satisfied can you be in a 17' boat with no flat surfaces?) But here is the list I have derived from the discussion:
Needed to Sleep Aboard a Day Sailer
1. A level surface. The cuddy floor slopes; the cockpit is blocked by the CB trunk. Solutions reported: canted foam pads in the cuddy, boards across the cockpit.
2. Protection from weather. Even in the cuddy, the angled hatch opening lets rain enter. Solutions reported: Boom tents, free-standing tents on cockpit boards.
3. Protection from bugs. Solutions reported: Mosquito-net boom tents; custom net inserts for the cuddy door; pulling the sleeping bag over your head.
4. Ventilation. Although the cuddy is the same size as a backpacking tent, the fiberglass does not breath like tent fabric, and ends up dripping with condensation. Solutions reported or proposed: Portholes in cuddy, battery-powered tent fan.
5. Safe cooking facilities. (This came up on the SailboatOwners.com forum, not this one.) The DS II and III have bilges that can collect explosive vapors, just like a large yacht. Solutions reported: Avoid naptha-fueled camping stoves in favor of alcohol or propane devices.
6. Sanitary waste storage. Ignoring issues of biomechanics and privacy (which most small boat sailors do), there still remains the risk of fouling our own nest. Solutions reported or proposed: hold it until you get to shore, bag it, or use an actual portable toilet.
7. Secure anchoring. Not unique to the DS, but the bulbous forward superstructure of the boat presents a big target to the wind and a large weather helm, such that the boat tends to tack back and forth on its anchor rode. Solutions reported or proposed: Standard ground tackle (adequate scope, chain, and anchor type), weather vane trisail at aft end of the centered boom.
8. Anchor light. Unless in a "designated small-boat anchorage," all vessels are required to display a 360-degree white light at anchor. This is usually at the top of the mast on a larger yacht. Proposed solution: Take a removable white stern light (e.g., Aqua Signal) with fresh batteries and run it up to the peak on a topping lift.
The last thing on my list is finding the time to do overnight trips. I would gladly put up with the rain, bugs, and cramped quarters if I could arrange that.