IP31 - New Dodger, Bimini, Sail Cover
Saturday - October 30, 2004•Views: 6466••
When I purchased the boat it had a tradition style dodger and a helm awning that extended back to the back stays.
I wanted something that would allow me to stand fully at the helm (6'6" of headroom), be versatile, and not clutter the sides. To keep the clutter down, I decided on a small two frame bimini that is attached to the stern rail. I went with a California style dodger because I liked the boxier look and the removable sides. Because of the smaller bimini, I had to go with a faily large center connector, but it has worked out very well and allows me to really open up the cockpit with out removing a lot of canvas. I added a Textaline rear sun shade and Sunbrella side curtains to keep out the rain/sun. I had the whole thing stitched using Gortex thread.
I had blue canvas before and the cockpit seemed much more closed in than it does having the lighter (Sunbrella Brass) canvas.
I added side grab handles on the dodger and braced the whole thing using struts.