Wanted Advise/Ideas - Bow Dodger/Bow Cover/Bow Bag for SR4

GuyNash · 21 August 2014, 12:03

I've recently acquired an Avon SR4, at some point in its life its had the original dashboard/bow dodger removed and I'm umming and ahhing about replacing it. Got mine set up with a console at present and only being 4mt long storage is far from plentiful, so would like to increase my options if possible. (Obviously the simple answer is buy a bigger boat!)

I'm thinking somtething along the lines of the RNLI D class lifeboat set up, I.E. with some structure rather than just a flimsy cover on the bow. And if it could have a bag underneath to stop things sliding back that would be outstanding!

Anyone got anything out there that might do the trick? Or have any ideas? Or will I have to bust the sewing machine out and try and knock something out myself?!

Thanks in advance guys!

Downhilldai · 21 August 2014, 12:33

Welcome to ribnet.

What are you looking to store there? Bear in mind a bowdodger would restrict access over the bow tube when trailering, anchoring, etc and any gear stored in the bow will have a bit of a rough ride.

If you do a search on here for 'olive barrel' by 'Mollers', you'll see a neat improvised storage solution.

Nos4r2 · 21 August 2014, 19:22

It's an absolute sod to anchor with a bow dodger restricting access to the bow eye. Been there.

GuyNash · 21 August 2014, 20:39

Very true about having a dodger permanently in situe will make anchoring just a general pain. That will definitely rule that out.

What about something zipped up the middle, so could be opened up to give full deck space, or zipped shut on the windy days to keep spray out to an extent. It'll only be for storing general items, nothing boat related as such, but kit drybags, with first aid kit, spare warm clothes, that kind of thing, so doesn't need to be watertight as such, but will keep it tidy and stowed away neatly(Ish).

I'll draw some super quick drawings of what I have in my head and see if you guys can translate!

Nick Hearne · 21 August 2014, 22:13

I made this up to cover the front of my Ribeye mainly for some cover under way + keep the seagull crap off the boat on the mooring.
Use it to store all the beach stuff under and works well to dry out wetsuits and BA over night

Can fit in no time, the front hooks over the tubes + buckles and Velcro over the consoles handrail and clips to the ropes on the tubes.

GuyNash · 22 August 2014, 13:03

That's pretty much what I'm envisioning nick! Did you knock that up yourself or can a boat cover manufacturer make one?

Thanks again,
Guy

Nick Hearne · 22 August 2014, 19:14

Quote:

Originally Posted by GuyNash

That's pretty much what I'm envisioning nick! Did you knock that up yourself or can a boat cover manufacturer make one?

Thanks again,
Guy

Hi made it up myself, easy to do or you could get one made up at a price!

9D280 · 26 August 2014, 21:38

I had one of them with a screen.

With judicious use of recovery lines (small ropes to bring the actual anchor warp back "aboard" it's not as bad, and the space (esp. with the screen) meant you had a relatively sheltered place to cower down into for lunch etc, but Nick has solved the problem I solved by getting a bigger rib!