Doors on sailboats--Do we need them?
- Thread starter Kings Gambit
- Start date
Of course. They are closed much of the time. But, there is generally no reason for them to be closed except to provide access to areas blocked when open. Suppose I wish to discharge the holding tank at sea? Door to the head latched open provides access to thru-hull, but blocks access to the panel, radio and the nav table. So it’s closed when I go down. I latch it open to get to the discharge thru-hull. Open that. Now, must activate the macerator. Where’s that switch? On the panel behind the door to the head which is now blocking my access to it. Unlatch the door to close so I can reach the switch. OK, all done. Turn off switch. Latch door open so I can access and close thru-hull. Then close door so I can get to the radio and nav table again. There are a few other versions of this “dance.” The DOOR does NOTHING here except impede me, whether it is closed or open, etc!!! It’s only function ever is privacy for somebody’s head use. When I’m alone on the boat it has no function.
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Somehow slamming a curtain doesn’t have the same effect.
...as an aside,,,, above each cabin door on the salon side I placed a single "hook"- a robe or towel hook. This was done so the cabin door can remain open, but someone can hang a coat or towel on it to block vision in or out of said cabin. Or a foulie, in case you get called on deck in a hurry. Or a wet towel when it can not dry on the lifeline.