"engsol" wrote in message
...
On Mon, 9 Feb 2004 18:11:56 -0600, "Rick & Linda Bernard"
wrote:

Any comments or suggestions on replacing a bimini-dodger with a
fiberglass
hardtop? I am in the initial planning stages and looking for input.

Thanks


Maybe it's just me, but.....
The last time I sailed, it was on a Catalina 36 with a full dodger....
top, front, sides..all except the back. Folks, I got seasick for the
first time sailing...actually motoring. The "station wagon effect"
allowed the exhaust to flood the cockpit. I went forward on the
deck several times, and that calmed my stomach.

Is this common? Or is it a dodger design problem? Any advice
how to minimize the effect? Short of motoring in reverse?
Thanks,
Norm

I wouldn't have a fully enclosed solid or fabric dodger /bimini but I sail
mainly in the tropics. The effect of shade, whether it be from solid or
cloth is essential on a cruising boat that is in warmer areas. Enclosing the
cockpit with a full dodger soon becomes oppressive and we do it only in rain
or a particularly cold winter beeze- here in Queensland/Australia that means
well above freezing. My boat has a fabric bimini which can be fully enclosed
with a plastic windscreen and fabric curtains. The windscreen has a small
area just in front of the helmsman that unzips for visibility in bad
conditions. This works very well on my boat in my conditions. I wouldn't
mind a solid bimini but I couldn't tolerate solid windscreen and side panels
in the heat. If sailing only in colder conditions this may be acceptible.

Peter HK