Yes your right about getting a bigger boat but theres the question of
already owning a dory 16ft long with two motors, and then buying a new
one. As I use it only a few weekends a year i'm loathe to buy an
upgrade. besides I put holes in this one just where I want the rods
and stuff and I can manage it.

The idea of a canvas dodger or canvas cover sounds a good one, maybe
with hoops to support it at the bow gradually getting bigger till I
can sit under them and then they collapse onto the bow foredeck?

As for the trim of the boat, this boat is very stable and I use it
with a low hp engine, it can take up to 120hp and it can take six
people and kit. I thought a thin glassed marine ply cuddy might be the
answer with a few perspex windows to let in the light. Low weight and
waterproof.

Thank you for the replies and keep on coming up with the good ideas,
well done. Paul