Catalina 16.5 Cuddy possible issue

[jennypew]

Hello, I just bought a 2001 16.5 for a great price and it is in great condition. I looked inside the cuddy today and noticed that there is a little cracking at the side between the cuddy and the back of the hull. We are very very new to sailing and I'm just wondering if this seems like something I should be worried about or it's normal in a boat this age and doesn't affect function. She sails great in our small lake. There was a tiny bit of water but I think that's because my husband broke one of the latches on the hatch so it may not be watertight. Also, does anyone know a good hatch door supplier?

Picture is taken inside the cuddy looking to the left and it's coming through upside down.

Thanks!

 

[Project_Mayhem]

Is that a crack or a seem at the bottom of the bulkhead? Regardless, the tabbing (fiberglass strips used to attach the wood bulkhead to the hull) is a pretty easy repair. The hardest part is sanding/grinding. You'll want a full face respirator (MUCH better seal) and a palm sander with attached to a vacuum. Grinders will cause dust to go everywhere.

I am curious about the crack in the top of your photo. Can you get us some more pics of both?

 

[jennypew]

Thanks for the quick reply! I'm still learning terminology so forgive me of what I'm saying doesn't make sense.

It appears to be a crack at the bottom of the bulkhead and then the sides at the top are both open. Should these be totally closed off or is it normal to be like that. There's definitely some decay on the left side pictures though. I'm putting the picture in right side up and attaching a few more from the POV inside the cuddy looking backwards.