Are DODGERS really necessary?

[JohnnyMac]

Saves headaches

Sometimes we get lazy and leave the dodger up all the time even though the support bars are right at eye level when standing at the helm. When it is not necessary, it is not that difficult to fold down. The problem with the dodger being collapsed is I hit my head on the boom when I'm going down the companionway.

 

[Stargazer3]

Thanks to all who wrote! I learned a LOT! I should have said up front that I'm a "fair weather" sailor on Lake Erie. Spray rarely (if ever) comes over the top of the cabin - so water is not an issue. Capt Bill on STARGAZER

 

[gillesgiv]

Thanks to all who wrote! I learned a LOT! I should have said up front that I'm a "fair weather" sailor on Lake Erie. Spray rarely (if ever) comes over the top of the cabin - so water is not an issue. Capt Bill on STARGAZER

Sailing north in salt water you need a dodger. If you sail coastal in soft water may be you dont need.

 

[BrianH]

Captain Bill, I am more of a fair weather sailor as well, though I have been out in some pretty wild stuff on Lake Erie. I think one of the most important reasons that I have a dodger on my boat is for the guests and to extend the sailing season. Just being able to get out of the wind is enough to make a cold trip into a very enjoyable one. I have been out sailing on late April and mid October in shorts and a tee shirt and been very comfortable. The sailing season in the Great Lakes is too short as it is, why not enjoy those few more weeks out sailing.

 

[quadrille38]

Echo what everyone else has said about extending the season and keeping rain out of the companionway.

A couple of additional thoughts on why dodgers and biminis are good ideas. As much a we love the feel and warmth of the sun out on the water, the rising incidence of skin cancer is a strong argument for providing cover while sailing.

In our case, my wife is very fair skinned and doesn't tolerate the heat well such that without a dodger and Bimini there would be no boat ownership. So my justification is that if she's happy and comfortable we (I) get to go boating. LOL.

A skilled canvas maker who works with the owner to custom fit the dodger to the boat and the boats owner is essential. The guy in our area who's done all three of the boats we've owned spends a lot of time to understand the owners needs, even down to making sure that the height of the dodger matches the owners height and making sure it looks right and is proportioned to the boat. A poor fit not only looks bad but can get interfere with your sailing.

 

[rfrye1]

Yep, even in S Cal. I sail year round. My wife hunkers down under it to either stay warm, or stay out of the sun. Also while moored, we keep most lines/sheets tucked up under the dodger out of the sun/elements.

Bob.