Port Light for 216

[Robert Wright]

Hi Folks!I'm in the process of trying to determine whether to have a small port hole/light installed in my new 216 in preparation of overnights and or just to keep the cuddy ventilated. The location would be more than likely at the front of the cuddy right in the center - where it slopes down towards to the forward deck. I've checked with Hunter and they have indicated that installation of a port light at that location would not affect the structural integrity of the 216 or the cuddy. Hunter indicates that it's about 2 inches thick at that location (as it is I believe throughout the boat). The tricky part is that there is a slight curve at that location and I need to find a port light that is slightly flexible or at least could flex to mirror the shape of that location. The second location might be the forward deck, but that area is not that large and I'm concerned a port light hatch might interfere or get caught up in the jib lines. The third location would be on the sides of the cuddy, but I would prefer to have it up front for better ventilation. Has anyone else thought of putting in a portlight/hatch in their 216??PS: Yes, I know, there might be plenty of "ventilation" from the leaks near the masthead opening, but that's another story

 

[Rick]

Navlights too?

Great question. Since you mention it, have you installed running lights for possible after sunset sails?

 

[Robert Wright]

Not Yet. Has Anyone else installed 216 Nav Lights?

Rick,That may be something I do next winter. I'm going to wait until I see how other folks install them, but I definitely want them at some point, especially before some serious overnighters. Anyone else thinking about navigation lights for your 216?-Robert

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

yes but not sure

Make sure it is in a flat surface not curved. Jury still out on that one. I will check on the opening port but for now I do not have an answerYes you can put nav lights on and that is not hard to do.

 

[Robert Wright]

Thank You Dave

Dave,Thanks for your response.You're absolutely correct to not have the port lights installed on a curved surface - even though the preferred cosmetic location is right smack in the middle on the "cowle" (not sure if that's the right term) where it slopes forward down to the deck. I'm going to have to locate some other flat surfaces that 1. Wouldn't interfere with any lines, 2. Is both structurally and aesthetically appropriate. Meanwhile, now you've got me thinking about installing Navigation Lights right now while things are still way chilly here on the East Coast.Hmmm, I'm going to have to think about this. Anyone out there have Nav lights or port lights installed yet? Any responses would be appreciated.

 

[Rick Webb]

Navigation Lights

If you are not going to install a whole electrical system a flash light will satisfy the requirement for vessels less than 23' and if it's maximum speed is less than 7 knots. Another option is is to use the flaslight type nav lights.