Movin' the traveller-part 2

[Mike]

Ron-How wide is the gap between the dodger and the bimini? I have seen some where the gap is less than four inches and a small piece of "bridge" material was needed when at anchor, under power or at the dock. I still think moving the traveller is the way to go but it is an expensive job (what isn't on a boat?).About how much was your dodger/bimini? Is it a custom job? Do you have side window curtains, side screens or both? Do you like it?A friend of mine is having a custom dodger/bimini done for his 28' Catalina. $5,000 with frames, side curtains and screens. Not cheap! Still probably worth it when the bugs come out or you're on a long haul on a sunny 95 degree day with little breeze and some shade is welcome.Thanks for the info on the Schaefer set-up.Regards,MikeS/B Pitterpat, Lake Huron

 

[Ron Richardson]

O'Day 28 dodger/bimini

The gap is about 10" which provides a good opening for the sheets to move without touching anything. Ours was custom done in Key Largo, Florida two months ago and I am very happy with it. Material was Sunbrella Pacific Blue with heavy duty aluminum frames. The dodger has opening front curtain and the sides are clear towards the front and canvas at the back for shade. Later I can try and sent a photo if you like. The connector piece just zips into the stern end of the dodger and the front of the bimini. Costs, including installation, were $725 dodger, $ 475 bimini and $225 for the connector (excl tax). Not bad. Some pre-designed commercial dodger/bimini units were of light duty. The custom approach assures a good fit and secure anchoring.

 

[Tom D]

Pics would be great

Guys-We have an Oday 28 in Tampa, and have been thinking about a dodger and/or bimini. We'd love to see your pictures if possible. Any way you can post them? or E-mail them to us?Thanks

 

[Ben]

Please!

Let me echo what Tom said...pictures would be wonderful, as we are contemplating doing the same thing!

 

[Bob Kanzler]

A lot of work for 10" of shade

Some comments on moving the traveler. I thing you are going to a lot of work and expense for a small increase in shade. But what my biggest concern would be is, “Is it safe? Will the cabin top be able to support the main sail loads. I would think the loading would be quite substantial, especially in heavy weather.Either way, good luck.

 

[Mike]

not just the shade/will try to post pictures

Ron and those who need pictures:It isn't just the ten inches of shade I want. Here in the Great Lakes where I sail we are regularly visited by bug swarms of biblical proportions. The least opening will find the winged vampires chawing happily on all exposed skin. I agree that putting the traveller on the coach roof will put large sheet loads on it, and it is for that reason I am researching the idea before I go forward.For those who want pictures I have some from a visitor to this web site. If you send me your e-mail address to glover96@comcast.net (and no I'm not a spammer) I will forward what I have to you. It's a couple of snap shots of the traveler and a view of the inside of the boat.Regards,Mike

 

[Ben]

Did you see this pic?

Mike...did you see this picture from the "Owners Photos" portion of these forums: http://www.sailboatowners.com/album/display.tpl?fno=60&id=Hudson73094673065&bts=TI am headed to Au Gres tomorrow to take off the forestay and will give Pitterpat a gentle "Hello" for you!