R31CB Bridge Canvas

[fmickey]

With frequent pop-up storms, the Chesapeake Bay presents challenges. Putting my vessel back on a lift in 16kt winds was one I ran into, and would prefer to avoid with the large wind profile. I note that the surround on the bridge is canvas and appears to be removable, but I wonder how easy it is to remove/replace, and if there's any downside to running without it? TIA.

 

[Brian John]

Where are you located on the Bay?
Do you plan on going to the rendevous in Cambridge this weekend?

 

[fmickey]

Hi, Brian. Unfortunately we're booked elsewhere this weekend - so sad to miss it! Good friends Nancy and John Parsons gave it thee thumbs up. We are in Royal Oak, on Tarr creek - it's right around the corner from the Bellevue side of the Oxford ferry.

 

[MarCur]

With frequent pop-up storms, the Chesapeake Bay presents challenges. Putting my vessel back on a lift in 16kt winds was one I ran into, and would prefer to avoid with the large wind profile. I note that the surround on the bridge is canvas and appears to be removable, but I wonder how easy it is to remove/replace, and if there's any downside to running without it? TIA.

The canvas protects the back of your electronics, and I suppose you too, if you are splashing in the waves. I know it kept my feet dry many times.... I do not think that is a high percentage of your wind profile, though. If you have a camper canvas, rolling up the sides will reduce it by a lot more. But if you desire, removing it is not that difficult. Unhook the loops on the bottom, and slide it around. I would not recommend doing it in high winds while on the water, lol

 

[fmickey]

MarCur, many thanks for a great tip. Sliding it around to the side might be a good hack if it seems to help, and I can try that in less than gale conditions.

 

[HopTug]

If you’re piloting from the lower helm to get it on the lift, you could just fold the upper helm down for the docking procedure without removing the canvas. Shouldn’t harm it if it’s only temporary.