Swim Platform Extension

  • Thread starter Thread starter blouderback
  • Start date Start date
B

blouderback

Guest
OK, so I've come back to reality and have resigned myself to keeping my bowrider for a few more years. However, there are several things on this boat that have bugged me since I bought it. One is storage space, and I will be addressing that by installing some netted storage boxes under the gunnels, a couple of surface mount binocular holders under the port and starboard dash, and maybe a couple of hatches in the bow access walkway area on the starboard and port walls.

One of the other things that has bothered me is the swim platform. It's kinda shallow, and it tilts back towards the water when floating in a quiet cove. This makes it kind of uncomfortable to hang out on. I was thinking of adding some sort of extension on top of the existing platform, maybe teak or that starboard material, shimming it a little so that it leans toward the bow, yet allowing water to drain through and off the boat. I wouldn't need any supports, as the new platform would be bolted to the exisiting platform and sort of cantaleaver (sp?) just a few more inches out over the stern, just enough to get my fat butt on it comfortably. But, what to do with the ladder? Maybe create a hinged section that open up and allows access to the ladder?

Any suggestions, comments, tips, or tricks?

Here's a poor shot of my current swim platform:
http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2964141930086280688cuMmdj
2964141930086280688cuMmdj_th.jpg
 
Just remember that whatever you do to the boat, the next buyer had better like it as well.

Nothing harder to sell than a boat that has be uglyfied by current owner.

Jonathan
 
"and maybe a couple of hatches in the bow access walkway area on the starboard and port walls."

Are you saying that you are going to cut the fiberglass?

There several good swim platform companies on the webb....ahmmm, try googling "boat swim platforms" for starters. I don't think I would overlay your Euro style transom deck with holes and all...lose weight...theres a thought..nice link Chuck

Ready for my 22's? :)
 
Bob,
I just bought and installed a swim platform from Swimplatforms. It fits and looks like it was original equipment. A little costly, but address the concerns Jonathan mentioned. I think it is an asset to the boat.
 
I'm more of a DIY guy, and I don't like the looks of the after market (or even the factory installed) extended swim platforms.

As far as the hatches, yes, I'm going to cut into the fiberglass. I saw a similar Glastron (another Genmar VEC hull product)at the boat show that had netted storage compartments there, so I'm pretty sure there is wasted space there that I can use. I'm talking about the vetical walls in the walk-thru area. I think I can get a hatch about 15" tall by 12" wide from SSICustomPlastics. Maybe enough to store some PFDs or some fishing gear, or a small trash can (or a stray fender!):
AnnaUnderthebowcover.jpg
 
Looks like there may be a little more wasted space under those cup holders/arm rests behind the buckets seats also...
 
Yep, that's where the netted storage boxes are going. In the 2006 model of my boat, they are there. I spoke with a Larson tech at the factory (via email), and he said it would be ok structurally to do that with my 2005 model. Here's a picture of the 2006 model with those storage boxes installed:
storagecompartments2.jpg
 
Sounds like a plan Bob. Remember "Measure twice, Cut once".....good luck, send pics...Stan
 
i have a buddy who took a teak platform and mounted it on top of his molded patform. it extends out at least a foot further than before. he got a deal on a new platform that someone wanted to take off in favor of fiberglass. it has wide pieces of teak as opposed to more narrow slats that mine is made of and looks really nice. i think his molded platform extended a bit further than yours, though. looks like yours might not give as much support.

sorry, no pics
 
Yeah, that's what I want to do. It will solve two problems, 1)platform tilts too much aft, and 2)platform is too narrow for my fat butt.
 
Those 280 Sundancer's sure have nice swim platforms. Just something I've noticed lately.
 
I googled "Sea Saddle", but can't seem to find anything. What's a "Sea Saddle"?
 
Bob,
I, too, installed an extended swimplatform from www.swimplatform.com on my old boat (Crownline 225ccr). It was a nice addition. I also didn't like the look of it, at first. Then I loved it. The wife didn't like the price of it but it looks like it was meant to be on the boat and she was happy that we installed it.

I have before and after photos of mine if you would like to see them, let me know.
 
Sea Saddles look like a cool new onboard storage item for boats. I was told at the boat show they'd be available at the end of March, 9 more days Bob.......
 
Bob,

Where are you purchasing the netted fiberglass bins aftermarket? Are they from the dealer, do you know the manufacturer?

Thanks,
Gary
 
I'm getting them direct from SSI Custom Plastics. Google them...
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top