Let The Sunshine In!

Save 10% on escape and ventilation hatches, portlights, deck hatches, and storage boxes through April 28, 2018! Don't settle for a gloomy galley or shadowy staterooms. With the right hatches and portlights - at the right price - you can fill your boat cabin with natural light and fresh air. For peace of mind, install an escape hatch. These hatches aren't just for boats: they can be installed in trucks, RVs, and campers. Limousines and party buses can use them, too. They can make all the difference if there's trouble inside the cabin. Don Casey at Boat US offers thorough instructions on positioning, sealing, and installing a deck hatch. [caption id="attachment_739" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Boat US[/caption] A smoked, frosted, or clear escape hatch lets in light as well as giving you a way out in an emergency. Prop it partway open and it lets fresh air in, too. If feeling the breeze is what you're after rather than an emergency exit, a purpose-made ventilation hatch admits light and air to the cabin. Some even come with screens to keep out bugs; screens are also available separately for some hatches. [caption id="attachment_740" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Jim Black 18 x 18 escape hatch screen, greatlakesskipper.com[/caption]   We're always amazed to see the ways people use boat parts, especially in their campers, RVs, and tiny houses on wheels (THOWs). Because they're made to withstand heavy weather, boat windows are a natural choice for RV construction. Round portlights give a camper a retro look and are very popular. Check out the portlight in this van camper from Wales.     Or in this teardrop trailer by Knox Retro Campers. With that little cooktop and sink, this camper looks a bit like a boat cabin, doesn't it?     Have you installed a hatch or portlight in your boat? Tell us about it on Facebook, Google+, and Twitter!