Where is the bilge access?

[have2ride102]

I'm a new owner of a '91 23/3 who is getting ready to splash the boat for the first time tomorrow.

I think I've got most of my rigging issues sorted but I can't seem to find a convenient place to inspect the bilge in my boat. The only access I've found in the cabin sole is in the aft end of the storage area under the companion way steps which is not convenient. The cabin interior appears stock but I don't see an obvious inspection point for the lowest part of the bilge. Where do you inspect your bilge?

Thanks.

Russ

[brackish]

That's where it is my friend.  The area under the cabin sole is chock full of ballast, essentially sealed off, there is no bilge compartment there.  If it is any consolation I put an auto pump in that bilge compartment about six years ago and it has never pumped a drop of water that I didn't put in there myself to test the pump.  Now, if you have a diesel inboard with a shaft that might be different.  Or if you are draining your sink in there, which I don't do.

[Bristol14]

It's a pain to crawl under the steps/storage area, but have yet to discover water either.