2016 Archive : 48 Beneteau Oceanis

Project Details

Fabric 1

Sattler
Producer: Sattler AG
Supplier: Halifax Vogel Australia

Fabric 2

Vinyl, Clear
Producer: Renolit
Supplier: Halifax Vogel Australia

Fabric 3

Zipping
Producer: Paskal
Supplier: Paskal Australia

Engineer Name 1
Neil Hancock

Engineer Company 1
Aussie Boat Covers

Design Name
Neil Hancock

Design Company
Aussie Boat Covers

Fabrication Name
Neil Hancock

Fabrication Company
Aussie Boat Covers

Project Manager Name
Neil Hancock

Project Manager Company
Aussie Boat Covers

Installation Name
Neil Hancock

Installation Company
Aussie Boat Covers

Please describe the project specifications

Cockpit enclosure on 48 Beneteau Cruising sailboat using Sattler Heather Beige acrylic canvas, Sea Flex green tinted polished clears and Paskal S Lock waterproof zips.

What was the purpose of this project? What did the client request?

Protection of the cockpit and it's occupants in varying situations was the clear brief requested by the dealer and the client.
The purpose for the protecting the occupants from UV was obvious but also to protect them from sea spray while sailing without compromising the sailability of the vessel.
Enhancing the hull colour was an extremely high priority for the client, hence the choice of the Heather Beige canvas which is a very soft look that matches the teak combings and floor but also doesn't attract heat and shows little signs of dirt.
The other priority was the full coverage from above and the ability to see the mast and boom with all covers on and still be able to maximise functionality, of sail, during sea passages and at anchor.

What is unique or complex about the project?

Keeping with the clients request to minimise sun damage we used a tinted clear that fitted the specifications. The unique look enhanced the image of the vessel to which the client was overwhelmed with and surprised at the deflection of glare that it provided.
The major concern when designing and constructing this project was making sure the boats fittings were not impeded when under sail. The complexity of shape and positioning of structure was concerning as the clients requirements meant repositioning some mounting points to take extra load. This is evident in the mounting of the reverse bimini on the rear of targa bar to a factory fitted handrail and only using that as structure, no other stays just the design of the frame and the fit of the canvas.
Another unique feature is the window size and positioning. The large front clear with roll down eyebrow creates no blind spots looking forward. The large side windows in the dodger also gives more than usual vision. The dodger also has a roof sail window to view the sails when winching from the cabin top. The large side curtains that protect the cockpit give not only weather protection but also UV and wind protection to the occupants and the sail windows in the bimini give full view of the top of the mast while standing or seated at the helm.

What were the results of the project?

Giving the clients family a safe protected cockpit from the elements was the feedback that reinforced our satisfaction for the job.
The client is amazed at the clarity and benefit of the tinted clear and has really appreciated the waterproof zips during rough weather.
The project has given us a new profile in our location and challenged other clients to experiment with design and fabric choice.

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