'81 CP 23: full bulkheads, and I want an open cabin, so

[BruceW]

I talked to Keith Scott, who explained I could take the bulkheads out, replace them with a couple of 1" stainless rods for compression posts.

In looking at this, I see I would lose hooks and cabin lights.

I need an idea on how to regain those, or maybe I need an alternative like cutting out some of the bulkhead, leaving the stuff I want, and having windows, etc.

So, ideas? Experiences?

Sure, I could just sell it, and get another boat.

Eh.

Bruce

[brackish]

While I have no intention of pulling the bulkhead out I've been using Brilliant Evolution battery puck lights all over the place including on the boat .  My wife complained that there was only a light on the starboard bulkhead, how could we both read at night without a light.  So I put a couple of those overhead.  Works great, so far.  They come with 3M double sided adhesive discs to install.  Six, with a remote that also dims them for about $35 on Amazon.  Each one also has an individual switch, you just push the face. I also use them in my two remote storage sheds to avoid running power to them.

[notbob]

I would think clamp style mounts would be easy to find, especially if you choose a standard size.  1" for instance and you should be able to find a great many bicycle handlebar mounted lights, albeit battery operated.  I like the idea...I think the stainless would look very clean.

[BruceW]

Cool ideas, guys!

Now, for the will to move forward, haha.

B

[Mas]

I talked to Keith Scott, who explained I could take the bulkheads out, replace them with a couple of 1" stainless rods for compression posts.

In looking at this, I see I would lose hooks and cabin lights.

I need an idea on how to regain those, or maybe I need an alternative like cutting out some of the bulkhead, leaving the stuff I want, and having windows, etc.

So, ideas? Experiences?

Sure, I could just sell it, and get another boat.

Eh.

Bruce

Hey Bruce, just noticed this post. My recommendation if you are considering another boat is either get a PSC Dana or a PSC 31 (the Crealock version). They aren't inexpensive but open cabin, just love it. (also just an incredibly sea worthy and sea kindly design.)

We had a 23, loved her and still sail her little sister but really needed more space below decks for a place to stay not just sail. The bulkheads on early 23's were IMHO too large. The later models, assuming Mk2's and beyond had cut away bulkheads which gave better ventilation and a more open feel.

Good luck,
Mas

[BruceW]

Hey, Mas,

I agree on the Pacific Seacrafts!

If I was doing this now, I would have magically gotten the $ to get a Corsair F-24.

So, hey, I think I am going to make my 2 boats more like I want them in the meantime.

Bruce

[Potcake boy]

Bruce,

Have you sailed trimarans before?  I had a Dragonfly 25 (like Magic Hempel    http://smalltrimarans.com/blog/the-original-dragonfly-small-trimaran/ ) and a Corsair 24. Both were extraordinary performers. However my current needs dictated a more sedate cruiser. My pilothouse is as exceptional a small cruiser as the tris were high performers. Love all these boats for what they are.

[BruceW]

Ron,

I have a WindRider 17 now. It is my trailerable. My friend's F-24 is more sturdy, and still trailerable with my Explorer. I think of it as a good combo of room & fun.