Sailboat Refit: Cockpit Design [E42]

In this episode, I mock up the cockpit layout. Let us know what you think!
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Previous episodes:
Episode 1: www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjS5s...
Episode 2: The Short Boat Tour: • Episode 2 - The short ...
Episode 3: Not Just Any Boat: • Episode 3: Not Just An...
Episode 4: It's All Gotta Go: • Episode 4: It's All Go...
Episode 5: Engine Removal: • Episode 5: I Dropped t...
Episode 6: Bow shed build: • Bow Shed Build!
Episode 7: Cutting out the cockpit: • Episode 8 - mocking up...
Episode 8: Mocking up the bulkhead: • BONUS to Episode 8: H...
Episode 9: Building the main bulkhead: • Episode 9 - Building t...
Episode 10: Bulkhead Business: www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTO0m...
Episode 11: www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPMlh...
Episode 12: www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-4Jt...
Episode 13: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ch05v...
Episode 14: www.youtube.com/watch?v=paL_0...
Episode 15: www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtkfn...
Episode 16: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISDYa...
Episode 17:www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlInz...
Episode 18: www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdoYu...
Episode 19: www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVowP...
Episode 20: www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYq37...
Episode 21: www.youtube.com/watch?app=des...
Episode 23: www.youtube.com/watch?v=l917o...
Episode 24: www.youtube.com/watch?v=fClmP...
Episode 25: www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RYDx...
Episode 26: www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFSdF...
Episode 27: www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBCC8...
Episode 28: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPDeL...
Episode 29: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULhwC...
Episode 30: www.youtube.com/watch?v=53FiX...
Episode 31: www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXbQ3...
Episode 32: www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHWNl...
Episode 34: www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSnrd...
Episode 35: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKxXk...
Episode 22: www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQNZA...
Episode 23: www.youtube.com/watch?v=l917o...
Episode 24: www.youtube.com/watch?v=fClmP...
Episode 25: www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RYDx...
Episode 26: www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFSdF...
Episode 27: www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBCC8...
Episode 28: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPDeL...
Episode 29: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULhwC...
Episode 30: www.youtube.com/watch?v=53FiX...
Episode 31: www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXbQ3...
Episode 32: www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHWNl...
Episode 34: www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSnrd...
Episode 35: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKxXk...
Episode 36: www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGC9H...
Episode 37: www.youtube.com/watch?v=F817F...

[@WestfallWorx]

You probably thought of this. Remember, cushions will add a few inches to the height. I made that mistake on a project and folks legs dangled. I enjoy following along.

[@rickcockcroft7590]

I agree, and was going to make that comment. Matt your feet are only just on cockpit floor. Take off 1.5” on the height of front edge of seats. I also agree on Port side being better layout. Have you given any thought to having at least one electrical winch.

[@rdubuque]

If you add back cushions that you can take off when sleeping you would have a wider berth, and might be able to reach the other side with your feet, and avoid having a rail on the cockpit sole.

[@heinrichlorenzen8671]

this is the most relaxed boat refit YT channel, love it !!!!

[@TheDuracellProject]

Tusen takk, Heinrich!

[@richardelder256]

If's relaxed because of the CAT!

[@michaelmclaren7373]

It’s hard to tell from the mock-up and drawing, and I’m sure you’ve thought of this, but I’d want to stagger the winches’ placement (first one farther outboard, last one closer inboard) on a diagonal so that the three winches’ lines and sheets aren’t likely to interfere with each other.

[@kaiopitz8211]

wouldn't the sheets on the inside winch touch the ones further outward winch than?

[@Fr3DDy73]

i feel this is the major concern here... looking at the winches in a line like them are mocked... it really looks like the line won't work properly. I'm sure Mat is thinking about that... i'm gonna watch the new episode and see if he has something to say about that!

[@patrickmaloney6440]

This is such a cool project, and I am in awe of your skills and bravery in taking it on. She is going to be an absolute weapon of a cruising boat when finished! What dawns on me watching the remodelling of the hull is the way that a lot of cardboard, ply, tape, and standing and looking at it can help you come up with such a well thought out design, and that the techniques for forming the shapes are really so fundamentally simple - make a template or bend a bit of ply to shape, hold it in place, and glass against it to take the shape. It gives me inspiration to take something on one day, knowing that some simple concepts and some thought can come up with a great solution. All the best from the sunny UK!

[@TheDuracellProject]

awesome, patrick, we hope you do take something on one day!

[@robinhodgkinson]

And for my five cents worth… Since the helms are at the end of the seating I would be trying to keep the winches as far aft adjacent to them and away from the seating area so as to not fill it with loose lines. This would improve access to the side decks from the seating area, and the addition of tailing boxes under the winch “platform” would take care of the tails. And like a few have commented the angle of the winches seems pretty extreme, especially the operative winches when heeled. Ideally they would want to be square to the boat don’t you think. That compromises the seat back height as you’ve got things laid out, which to my mind is another reason to move the winches aft if you can. However as is the case for most things on a boat, I know compromise is the operative word.

[@liveroundsgaming2359]

Small detail, but when you make the benches, make the "front" part slightly slanted inwards. Helps a lot with ergonomics and for when you need to stand up.

[@mikemurel1917]

I have to agree after putting too sharp an edge on stairs I built to enter our main cabin. It created a point of contact exiting. Rough on the shins. Probably the same goes for your seat angle in rolling seas. Probably best to sit straighter.

[@simoncavill]

Agree totally with removing any “sharp” edges. Have seen someone break a leg being slammed against the cockpit edge in rough seas.

[@crusadeagainsttomatoes2518]

On newer yachts the winches are placed near the helm(s) and lines led to here as well, this keeps the cockpit free of lines, good if you have guests and easier for the helmsman to manage. But this is often because the winches are electric so that the winches can be closer together (no need for grinding). The above stated layout works well in aft cockpit yachts designed for short handing because their cockpit is so large that it can accomodate both a working area and an “entertaining area”. Another thing to consider using your winch layout is tailings storage, which you may be able to integrate into the coamings. You probably also know that you can buy tailings bags as well. Remember to also add foot chocks to the helm.

[@larkangel6593]

Ah, the Bob Ross of build channels Doesn't matter if your background is housing, cars or boats, the calm, quiet confidence is very relaxing I hate the overly dramatic - or worse, the very real tension of a nightmare refit - disaster shows Your project is progressing nicely in manageable stages. I can envision a future where you show up, stay for a few months, do your mobile thing, and then head back out

[@brazoschmidt5163]

I sail and own a Pogo 12.50 and truly enjoy being able to work the wiches while standing (excellent ergonomics) and being safe inside the cokpit. Duracell is much larger and you will need to apply more force while working the winches. Have you considered sacrificing the spce underneath the benches (Duracell is a large boat and you‘ll have plenty of storage anyway) and have the benches being foldable, so that you can work the winches while standing inside the cokpit? You could the have bags for the lines underneath the lowered benches. Go for the port side with horizontal winches. Much better when heeled. Great project and thanks for the insightful videos

[@battyboomfatty]

I mean, I don't understand any of the technical terms having never been on a sail boat in my life, but I am thoroughly enjoying this build. The thought that's going into it as well as the fibreglassing process just has me hooked. Keep up the excellent work guys.

[@oliverliddell613]

Make those cockpit seats as long as you can. Why not 80"? Having your feet hanging over the edge can ruin an off watch nap! Regarding the winches, have you thought of recessing them? I think it would help manage the height. What about having two of the 65's electrified. I did that with my primary 65's. What a powerhouse of possibilities you gain from that. Think you guys made the right choice with the angle of the back rest. Love the project.

[@ArizonaSusan]

Don’t forget the deducts for your foam cushions. May I suggest trying both seats with cushions before you make your final decision.

[@shannonodonnell5915]

I’ve never experienced sailing, I don’t know how I find your videos but I’m very much enjoying them. Craftsman such as yourself are intriguing.

[@BigRedNZ1]

I realise you must get lots of armchair advice….. my favourite “trick” for layouts is the inboard winches that Pogo and RM yachts use. Very simple and makes trimming foresail a treat.

[@RomainLagrange1]

Hi, I agree with you about the inboard winches (especially the rm layout with the mainsail winch still at the helm), but remember he can't have a winch on the coachroof for halyards and reef lines. I don't know if it's relevant to put two of theses massive winches inboard. I've also seen some boats with an inboard winch aft of the bench... They can try some layouts while mocking :)

[@Scott-uo7ns]

On the bench seats you could make a double back so that it could click up vertical when you eat but live slanted when you’re underway.

[@TheDuracellProject]

Cool idea!

[@cliveengel5744]

I remember seeing Duracell in Massachusetts many years ago and in Cape Town - then Mike Plant’s Concordia built Boat that lost its keel in 1991/92 - they recovered the boat and brought her back to RI and we had a look at what was left of the Carbon Keel Fin - 6mm thickness of Carbon only. Martin Francis Design - Need Form Stability in Racing and deep Keel

[@TheDuracellProject]

how cool that you saw Duracell back in the day

[@cliveengel5744]

@@TheDuracellProject - yes I met Mike Plant a long times ago and sailed One Tonners out of Massachusetts and now TP-52’s.

[@jimedson3853]

Very interesting. I appreciate the inclusion of your thought process in the video. It helps me understand why you make the decisions you make. Also I appreciate the fact that you don't make snap decisions, but mull them over and discuss them before starting the build. Thanks for the video.

[@niklasxl]

gota remember that when the boat leans you want to still be able to sit somewhat comfortably on the higher side. also might want to consider if putting the seats closer together is worth it since then you can rest your feet on the opposite side aswell as get more room on the outside of the winches, downside ofcourse is a smaller table/ room around the table.

[@sailingsomeday5975]

With your little friend in the tree - the rodent population will be way down! - Nice video - Fun watching you guys work through the design.

[@WHIKID1]

This boat is going to be so amazing when completed.

[@WytzevanderVeen]

Amazing journey you are making and I am honoured to be accompanying you through KZbin. It is very special to mee to see you both do your thing. I am not a sailor but am enjoying your content immensly. Keep it up!

[@jeffcondell]

I strongly suggest that you recess the Winches into the Coaming. Port side mockup looks like a better option in my experience.

[@liamclarke64]

Exactly what I kept thinking, but I know nothing about boats, other than I know I want one!!!

[@sdtok527]

would also put the clutches more in line

[@rdubuque]

Standing on bench to grind seems precarious, and also you need to worry about getting hit by the boom. Keeping the winches as low as practical sounds smart.

[@TheDuracellProject]

Yes we’ve been thinking about this. It’s a very good idea.

[@mckenziekeith7434]

@@TheDuracellProject the drainage aspect will need careful attention and might even dissuade me from doing this. Maybe you can have a very aggressively sloped channel that leads all water out of the base area in the outboard direction.

[@HereCHOCYchocy]

So much pondering and then pondering the ponderings. Top effort 👏 Liked 👍

[@TheDuracellProject]

Ha exactly😂

[@bdphourde]

Angling the winches is to ensure you have the best fairlead to the bottom of the winch barrel and the angle of the ramp that feeds that barrel. It will also include the placement of the line stoppers in height and angle to the bottom of the winch barrel.

[@heronemosheppard5401]

Genius! I love how you take us along on your design process. Im thoroughly entertained and continue to learn vast info at a fast rate. Thank you. You both are Awesome. Looking frwrd to becoming a Patreon.

[@warrenmartin366]

Hi guys, I like the port side better and would recommend a two inch raise on the top of the seat back so water doesn't track along the dog house by the lines and come into the cocklit. Good job, enjoying your channel and think this is a great project. Best wishes, Warren (UK)

[@billjeffery2419]

funny watching you go through cockpit designs ,it reminded me of my friend and his wife go through the exact same thing when they turned a38 foot C&C race boat into a cruising sailboat with a pilot house on it .It turned out to be very comfortable .great watching you think this through. thanks for sharing

[@shanelapeyre3600]

Definitely have a raised section aft of your cockpit seats. When you lay on the bench underway facing forward you need to definitely a back rest. Like we have on our Beneteau Oceanis 50 2008. That detail for your future reference if needed. You will honestly love this idea.

[@richardjcote9854]

Sérieux, vous devez communiquer avec le le couple qui fait le The Duracell projet sur le tube. Le gars est un vrai pro. Bonne chance

[@TM-uv4os]

Build a mock bench in the yard(w/winches) and try that out with whatever your expected heeling will be.

[@edster1000]

Remember the outboard winch angle will be more extreme with a bit of heel! Possibly a bit uncomfortable with a rough sea too! Best with your portside mock up!!

[@Vanuska1980]

Pay attention the the angle of the lines leaving the clutches onto the winches. Winches are tall you might have to raise the clutches. Too much angle up will put excessive strain on the clutches trying to lift them, and also cause complications with lines feeding onto the winches. Just something to think about. Great job and good luck 👍🏼

[@fredericmora]

You could also recess the base of the winches within the comings, it will make going above the comings way easier.

[@boatbikemike8571]

I was thinking along those lines as well. Maybe mount the clutch block further forward to ease the angles to the winch?

[@Vanuska1980]

I think slightly recessing winches within the comings will definitely be a more elegant approach even if its more work. Aesthetics is super important here. Winches will also need to be staggered slightly to line up with jammers so lines on aft winch doesn’t touch the forward winches.

[@brettdegreen8786]

Just thought of one idea for the seats. If you make a wedge shape back cushion you could flip it over when you want a more upright seating position.

[@jonunya3128]

can't get over how big those winches are.

[@TheDuracellProject]

Right!?

[@svZia-Switch51]

Once you are cruising just add a few Comfort Seats which will give you back support while eating at the cockpit table.

[@timwebb8153]

This cockpit/deck layout stuff is fascinating! I know nothing about it, so it's great learning about all these considerations.

[@williammuseler5542]

For cockpit functionality and seating I would recommend a consult with Bob Perry. He has demonstrated a very good style and comfort on all of his designs.

[@trep53]

I didn’t hear “helm to lee” as you two switched sides. I love this build, Matt knows his stuff.

[@markgreen7701]

This is a very exciting stage of the project!! Looks awesome!

[@patrickgilhooly8340]

Super GOOD plans. You are a 100%. Such a pleasure to see a couple that knows what they are doing. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@hondbanjer]

Nice project you two have there, like it a lot. Just a few considerations, every time somebody sleeps on that cockpit seat you have to wake them up for a trim or a thing at the winches. Suggest you take the winches as far aft as possible, to give the person on the seat a litle rest. Secondly, did Duracell came with a coffee-grinder ? You can reinstal that and even give more room on the seats. As for the lines, you can build a "channel" for them and reces the winches at the back accordingly.

[@richardelder256]

I did a power winch conversion on a 12 meter America's Cup boat with coffee grinders that was destined to carry 20 passengers. The electric motors were all industrial, and cost a fraction of what power sail handling systems cost today. Three speeds, buttons on the floor, and a crew of one.

[@flyinggybe2113]

Recommend spacing the winches with enough room to sit comfortably between them on the top of the coaming. That will be better for forward visibility and air flow on hot days, especially since it appears there may not be enough side deck room for comfortably sitting outside the coamings. Also, suggest an outboard lip on the top outside of the coaming to help reduce wave splash over the coaming into the cockpit and provide a convenient handhold when heeled. Suggest mocking up the helms before finalizing the benches, coaming and helm placement since it all need to work together.

[@TheDuracellProject]

Thank you for the suggestions. I've been thinking about mocking up the helms, and the lip around the coaming is an interesting idea.

[@barriecharmsway8026]

Those winches are ginormous. And must weigh some. Having them near as possible to the centre is a good idea.

[@timmiller4875]

Two thoughts. Do you plan to run spin sheets to a block snatched to the toe rail further aft than the winch? If so make sure you have a fair lead for that line from behind. Secondly. The clutch block placement by the doghouse corner looks like it’ll be difficult to get leverage to open when loaded. More so for your bride or any kids you have in mind. You’ll be reaching over a winch and around the corner. Will be worse for your weak side (port if your right handed, starboard if left handed). Try to place clutches where they are easily accessed. Plus, it looks like it may be creating a tripping hazard if you are stepping off the bench between the utility winch and the clutches. That’s the shortest path from cockpit to foredeck. I’d suggest a longer bench and a bigger gap between utility winch and dog house with a small fiberglass tunnel/cover over the lines (~18-20”) would give you a natural stepping spot with a hand for the boat on the doghouse roof as you move forward and back the cockpit, particularly if your bouncing on waves.

[@JamesYoung61]

When siting winches make sure that the winch handles do not interfere with each other, it is very painful when your knuckles clash with somebody else's and means only one winch can be operated at a time. Also if you are planning on having cushions on the seats keep that in mind when deciding on the height of the seat.

[@jamesadams1064]

Listen to the crew.

[@Brian-os9qj]

Enjoy the thinking/planning out loud aspect to your refit. That owl was cool

[@TheDuracellProject]

Thanks 👍

[@marccohen5477]

What about putting an aft back on the seats that could also have an inboard winch? This would also be the binnacle for the wheels. I love what you're doing.

[@michaelbennett9643]

Doghouse roof will have to pretty high if you want to operate winches standing over them, consider water runoff on to seating, cushion thickness and height. Good job on what you have done so far

[@Bruin4Life]

I agree with your wife on the revisions you made to the port side of the cockpit as it appears to be a more comfortable and workable solution. The boat is really starting to look like your own impeccable designs and even I as a novice can see that you are designing the boat to be able to sail the boat comfortably singlehanded or with a small crew. Love the videos and am staying tuned and look forward to each weeks new one.

[@johnoman3791]

RE cockpit: When under sail, we found it most comfortable to sit and sleep on the leeward side. I would vote for keeping seats level with the boat.

[@grantstone5548]

Get the pedestals machine down to the Hight of the small winch to lessen the angle from the jam blocks

[@michaelmerrithew578]

Assuming you will have "floating" blocks at the base of the mast allowing you to route the lines wherever you want, the orange lines you illustrated for lines, have too many turns. All adding friction. Go aft and outboard directly from the 4 and 7 o'clock position of the mast , directly to the corner area of the doghouse then aft from there. Had to change my boat. Also, your cockpit layout looks good, but if it were I, the seat backs would be higher. You have several inches from the combing to the top of the winch base, and that 3 or 4 inches will make the backrests much more comfortable. And you want thick cushions. (when I built my cushions, I had a thick layer of closed cell foam sandwiched between two layers of more comfortable foam. That way, in an emergency they could be thrown overboard for the sailor overboard) So there would be a 3 or 4 inch rise in the seat back, making a wall inboard from the winch, maybe 1.5 to 2 inches thick. Yes you need somewhere to plant your footsies when heeling. The boat is wide, so you'll have to be creative. This project is massive, and bless your heart for taking it on. You're doing a good job. Everything looks solid. And, that sucker is gonna be fast! I'll send you a small donation soon.

[@TheDuracellProject]

I routed the lines the way I did to get hatches in the deck, I may need to move the hatches, you’re not the first to mention my too many turns in the utility lines

[@dancarter482]

@@TheDuracellProject I'd go single helm - one big wheel, folding maybe? and mainsheet winch to hand adjacent the wheel; but that's just me and I could be wrong .. ... ..

[@rohdesoda1152]

Recently found your channel and Ive binged almost all of it. Love what you two are doing here, literally living out a dream of mine (racer turned performance cruiser). A couple thoughts on the cockpit design: - Big fan of continuous mainsheets on performance boats with dual mainsheet winches. This cleans up the mess of lines and allows you to trim and ease on either side interchangeably without having to consider how much tail you have on one side or the other. - Think about building some platforms that you stand on while at the helm, such that they can articulate when the boat is heeled. This allows you to stand on a "flat" surface while driving the boat into Podeidons wrath. - Not sure what your electrical plans are, but having at least one powered winch can be a huuuge ease of effort and stress. Having both mainsheet winches electric, better yet. That would allow one person to actively trim main and hold a straight course in a way that would be nearly impossible with a top handle. - Not regarding the cockpit, but a thought, top down furlers are the shiiiiit, another argument for an electric winch, you can furl an A2 in seconds Thats what I have off the top of my head. Many ocean miles and a decade of rigging and performance running rigging. If you need any help or insight on that stuff, please reach out, Id love to help. Im in awe and endlessly jealous of what youre doing here. Cheers, Mike

[@TheDuracellProject]

Hey Mike, your ideas are exactly what I have been thinking about recently. We are on the same wave length.

[@btcusick]

Great Job! Thank You for sharing. Excited to witness all that goes into reimagining Duracell and what it takes to bring her back to life.

[@randysmith7862]

love watching the progress.

[@mloret6745]

The starboard seat with slight less angle looks better. Lowest common denominator is always best.

[@michaelganshirt8795]

Fascinating!

[@dennishively5994]

I like how you mocked up the winch & seating area , awesome idea , good luck with deciding, they both have positives

[@TheDigger76]

love the project!

[@5fingers1]

🤞for the mast, enjoyed the process of setting out the cockpit 👍

[@tomcraddock244]

Looking good !! So fun to watch Fair winds ⛵️

[@tedmccullen7466]

Awesome show thank you!

[@jeremykamel9655]

Maybe consider getting some cushions so you can simulate what it’ll feel like when you sit slightly higher. So you’re sure you don’t want to raise the back. Also you could rise the back lightly above the combing top because there is a few inches between the bottom of the which and the and the bottom of the which drum.

[@liamclarke64]

Great video as always, and loads of good sensible comments!! 🙂

[@joelbrown4110]

Very interesting and enjoy the conversation about mindset in designing the cockpit. You may want to consider dropping the bench seat height some distance that allows for the thickness of cushions. Otherwise your feet may be dangling which is uncomfortable over long periods of time. With the cushions you will also lose seat back height.

[@point29]

It doesn’t look like there will be much room to go to foredecks next to the cabin top which I feel is the natural route. Like some others said moving winches aft more would solve this. Love how much thought you put into everything.

[@TheDuracellProject]

You're right! The coaming will be tapered aft so the side decks will get bigger.

[@Stolendesign]

great first crack - few thoughts. keep the winches flat, gives more options for windward side winching if running staysails or wanting to trim gennaker/headsail on highside. am assuming this yacht is going to be wet wet wet so leeward side is gonna be a heck of a place to trim from in a blow. mock the winch placement up with sheets in place and blocks in position so you can see what interfers with what. keep the winches as low as possible and as aft as practical, keeping lines out of cockpit as much as possible. lower the winch pads so you have better sheeting angles. you can build up the back rest while keeping the winches lower (still with access to the drums etc. this also keeps the lines lower to the deck so you arent trying to step over limbo sticks. the chamfer idea is great for the seat edge - also think about if in the corners where seat meets cockpit sole. practically speaking on a yacht this size, you aren't going to spend much time sitting on the windward side so focus on how sitting/laying on the leeward side feels and don't forget you can make foam squabs different shapes et accommodate less than ideal hard geometry... oh and dont forget beanbags..... best invention ever. not sold on having a railing down the middle of the cock pit sole - screams busted ankle to me, thinking worst case scenario in a storm here. if you can perch on the edge of the windward seat and rest your feet on the leeward seat edge that is as good as it gets, if your heeling that much it aint gonna be a comfy ride anyway. keep it up, great project and great progress.

[@ducbox572]

You can raise or lower the winches and change their angle relative to the surrounding deck with cut-outs and plinths. The large angle on the starboard side winches will make them difficult to wind when the boat is heeled. A half-moon recess inboard of the winch centerline and half-moon plith outboard will straighten them up while keeping the seat back taller.

[@erroljames8588]

I like what you are doing to your boat 👍keep doing a GREAT job congratulations

[@ThoughtfulWander]

Great episode! Like either option they both look functional but ultimately it is the crew decision :) keep rolling along! 👍👍

[@martinpaulsson9815]

Great project! I really admire your efforts and progress. A suggestion to be able to actually get a feeling of how the design will work when the boat is heeling over, would be to build a separate mock up of the cockpit and tilt it 20 degrees. As the winches for the head sail usually are operated in the leeward side it’s important to get them positioned right so that they are easy to use. Consider also the possibility to be able to sit on the windward edge of the cockpit while going upwind.

[@gsh341]

I would leave the seat back a little higher than the combing so water that gets onto that area wants to drain away from the seats and not into them. Also, if you're going to have cushions, lower the seat height to accounts for cushion thickness.

[@rickcockcroft7590]

Love your mock-up designing. It’s certainly how I think as an engineer. As main and jib halyards are typically only used while head to wind ( most cases) , I would give thought to a medium winch on the cabin top, that also means all that halyard rope won’t be in the cockpit.

[@gerosa490]

Don’t see traveller location on the drawings. I think it is on the doghouse roof, if so, great. Alternative is behind the helms. Anywhere else is a safety issue. An unexpected jibe can catch an unwary crew person. Also you should allow for solid location points for preventers when down wind sailing

[@TheDuracellProject]

Trav is on the Doghouse roof.

[@dcallan812]

Musical chairs tonight. Got to get it right you dont want back ache. Put a table in and dine out a couple of times to get a real feel. 👍👍

[@tomripley4212]

Remember to consider cushion thickness for your bench depth and height. Cushion foam material has dramatically changed with close cell and compression (think thermarest materials).

[@TheDuracellProject]

Thank you Tom. Yes I think I'm going to shorten the bench height 3 inches. Good to hear from you.

[@markdevaney8380]

Would it help the ergonomics if those big winches were lowered into molded cutouts with the outside open to the deck? You would then be able to put one knee on the seat and grind.

[@sydneydalpe7818]

I agree. Recessing the I/B side of the grinders while keeping the surface slanted towards the deck will help to direct the water outward. But, it might be advisable to really test it for the ergonomics of transiting in and out of the cockpit.

[@billywhizz6483]

Great mock ups. The current starboard winches would be more 'plumb' on a starboard tack but maybe really angled over on a port tack (I guess they're usually upright on production boats to even it out). Another seating position to consider (and it's my favourite when underway or at anchor!) is sitting with your back on the doghouse bulkhead, legs up on the seat and facing aft. Even better if you had an extension to the doghouse roof so you could tuck in there out of the way. All good stuff.

[@lkirkby3]

The winch setup seems pretty critical to long term comfort working the sails. Have you thought about putting them each (or as a group) in a 'well' that would permit them to be placed lower than even with the top of the seat backs. This would permit them to be easier to reach and work from within the cockpit. More complicated but could look good too. Just a thought?

[@gerosa490]

Very important to have the tops of the winches horizontal; grinding is mostly done using upper body weight so every turn of the winch you are, sort of, throwing your body at the rail, so less angle is good. You might want to consider a toe rails outboard of the winches and with a slope on them so the outboard foot of the grinder has a flattish surface to stand on. I agree with other comments that the mainsheet winch should be within arms length of the helm for emergency cast off. Generally like the design, there are always compromises. Good luck

[@TheDuracellProject]

Toe rail is a must. And yes, mainsheet at the helm is a priority.

[@carlstineman274]

I think the rig and sail plan you described, fractional cutter, with, I assume, roller furled jib and staysail plus bow- or prod-tacked masthead code zero and asymmetric chute makes a lot of sense for a boat this size sailing either shorthanded or fully crewed. I have owned and raced a Laser 28 for about 30 years. One of its attractive design features is its fairly steep outward sloping side decks along the cockpit with an even more steeply sloped inboard few inches. This makes for a very comfortable sitting position for both the crew and helms person while heeled, and it gets the crew weight outboard, which is very important in a light boat like the Laser; but, I realize, not a great concern for Duracell. You tried the seat back and deck angles with the boat upright. It might be informative to mock up this area off the boat somehow so that the whole assembly could be tilted to simulate heeling to see what the angles feel like then. I assume even Duracell will most often be sailed with some degree of heel at least when going to windward. Alternatively, you also have a lot of experience sailing other boats that likely have had various seat back and side deck angles. What does that experience tell you?

[@jefflove7791]

A few thoughts: 1) could you drop the winch bases below the level of the coming? That would allow you to lower them and reduce the outboard angle 2) will the main sheet and trav each run to both sides? 3) will any lines run internally outside the doghouse,or will all be on deck?

[@TheDuracellProject]

Recessing the winches is on our minds. Yes mainsheet and trav on both sides. All lines will be on deck. External.

[@Julian-zc4ik]

Hi guys - the port layout of bench and winches is better in my view - you will find that the starboard winches, already being angled ‘outboard’ will be more of a pain to operate when the boat is healed to starboard. That’s just my opinion and you are sure to get loads of those, but I did own a 50 footer for 10 years of ocean sailing - good luck!

[@TheDuracellProject]

Yes we lean toward port layout too for the reason you state!

[@simonmills6462]

Radius...complementary lines...heritage...detail...radius

[@PN_48]

I’m all for flat coamings, not only for the outward lean the winch operator will need to adopt, but also anything accidentally or intentionally placed on the coaming will slide straight overboard. Ask me how I know... as for seats, if you can go sit on every boat you can at a marina / yard, find one you like, then measure and build it👍

[@adelewilliams630]

So many thing to think about. how about water being trapped when at anchored and under way and healed and spray. The bar under the table maybe the way to keep the seat far apart and have foot rest but think about the table top down and still being able to use the bar. I think the winches being angle and out of the cockpit looks best.

[@PeterKNoone]

For the seat back part of the bench you'll lose some height relative to the compressed cushion you're sitting on...food for thought. Very exciting stuff.

[@klazyy641]

I hate to admit it, but she had the right of it in regards to the seating arrangement. Looking good, you two, and I can't wait for the mast particulars to make more sense to me. Sail arrangement, no problem, but figuring out where the lines originate and end up is slightly beyond my brain knob's ability to comprehend. Nice closing shot, btw; the owl just looked so majestic and in control 🙂

[@benshore7357]

Looking good. Many many design considerations. Trying to think of all the options. Maybe consult with some specialists

[@jl6156]

Look into Sirius Yachts, some videos here on YT, a german Yachtbuilder. Total different yachts ;-), but clever design of the cockpit bench lid. Love your channel :-)

[@TheDuracellProject]

I'll check it out!

[@TheNadOby]

Concider adding small groove on the back side of the bench where it and backrest are meeting. might speed up water draining from the bench top.

[@TheDuracellProject]

yep that and there will be drains too

[@J.Smith-rc6wh]

like the layout, probably would have dropped a winch, keep as spare parts, price one. give a clearer area at front to get in and out. like the sail plan too. the thing I like the most is that you are going to leave it awhile to see how it goes. The little details are what makes a great cockpit, so this time is important, start placing other details now during this time, incorporate them into the design instead of adding them to design later, just looks cooler

[@Tomm9y]

The cockpit design is well worth spending time on. I would look at keeping water from breaching the cabintop winchtop area, perhaps by an extra coaming foward of the stoppers and following aft to through, even a continuation of the seat back rest would make the seating more comfortable. For safety reasons I would include at least one electric winch connected to a halyard, so important for Man Overboard situations, evening a less able crew to reef main / genoa, don't overestimate everyones needs and abilities, particularly when seasick, tired, etc. Also, the ability to keep partial or complete cockpit enclosure is great in some conditions, whether keeping off the spray. keeping out a cold wind is very welcome on a long watch. Remember what it's like to sit comfortably when the boat heels, or is rolling, go out sailing on a friends boat and see what feels comfortable at 15 degrees heel. I would opt for more sloping backrests, but keep the winches level.

[@basilbrushbooshieboosh5302]

Think the back of the seat should be higher as your lower cushion will bring you up higher thus giving you less leaning space for your back. Just a thought. Great job guys.

[@Arnaud58]

@12:07 A good choice I think.👌 In addition to sitting comfort, you will be handling the winches at the leeward side, the lower side of the boat. (at least the headsail trims, others half of the tacks)🤔 Already pointing outwards the angle while heeling could become uncomfortable.😒 I'd rather point them inwards than outwards.😉

[@DWAJarrett]

Seats too high for cushions. 22 inch wide seats for cruising. You may be happier with the seats closer together rather than using a bar for support as the bar method will be tiring. Lower the winches into the seat backs as the recesses will give extra strength for winch mounting and take the load off which pulls up on the clutches. You need a groovy solution to store all that rope. My two cents worth. Love your channel👍

[@danknox9986]

I would try to recess the winches in little pockets 4-6 inches deep. That way you could make the seat back higher. It would also make the winches appear to not be so tall. Good luck.

[@mona_0908]

What i have seen on some boats which I really like is some grooves at the edge of the benches so you are less likely to slip off when standing on the windward bench at heel. Also in my experience it’s a pain in the ass having to adjust the Traveller with a winch, I always really like it when it’s just a purchase system because that’s faster to adjust, but idc if that would be reasonable on your boat since you have the Traveller quiet far forward. And one thing that I often found really helpful is adding a pulley right behind the cluches so you can lead either line to the winch in the other side.

[@TheDuracellProject]

The traveler will likely have both a purchase on the trav and lead to a winch, this way in lighter wind I can adjust by hand and in heavier air, put it on the winch. Thanks for the suggestions.

[@markchip1]

I thought it might be an idea to have a pull-up/fold-up aluminium railing on the inboard edge of the bench seats to hold a person lying there in a moderate sea. As you talked about someone being able to sleep there for periods... ESPECIALLY if you are heeled over at all!