Lockers Added to Cabin (May 1990)

The original cabin had simple shelves behind the settee seat backs and plain foam-backed vinyl covering the hull. (see left photo, below) We felt that this space could be put to good use for the storage of the many small items accumulate on a boat. After much thought and looking at options on many other boats, we sketched a plan for lockers that mount on and to the shelf as well as the forward and aft bulkheads.

We designed and constructed four lockers, one for each end of the shelf on the port and starboard sides. These lockers are about 15 inches tall and 27 inches long. (see right photo) The lockers have sliding plastic doors that match the ones in the galley area. The major challenge to building these lockers was to get them to follow the hull contours. Careful measurements, including the use of tick boards, were essential. Enough space was left between the lockers to provide a book shelf with a lift-out bar to restrain the books when the boat is heeled.

These lockers provide handy and secure storage for many of the items that we carry with us when we go sailing. This picture shows some of the essential coffee and tea items.

The lockers also have an extended trim surrounding the top surface. This provides additional, safe storage for books and small items.

{Lessons learned:

1.Take every opportunity to add valuable storage space in a small boat.

2. Consider all items that need to be securely stowed while sailing.

3. Consider the aesthetics and always attempt to  match the rest of the boat interior.}