The New Back End

The transom area is the next to get the makeover and after deciding to put in an 'eyebrow' step to transition from stern to cockpit, we decided to re-arrange the whole back end!  If things are going to get re-designed, we thought this is a pretty important area to consider.

New transom steps now incorporate the drum rudder system that is accessed by opening a lid.  Rudders can be fully retracted to allow beaching or shallow water anchoring (and of course cleaning!).

The steps are so much better than the old ones (see picture below), as they now include a large platform to the bottom with dinghy painter holes, or for general tying up of various things like boarding ladders which is yet to be designed.  (Apparently the stainless steel ladders are too heavy to have on board!)  That's another story!

So the spunky new 'wings' are at the base, with curved steps flowing up toward the eyebrow step.  All easy to walk up and down - the real test is when we're in a bit of a chop with gear bags, groceries and kids all trying to head up them at the same time!

All that needs to be done is the painting bit .. um, that's where I come in.  I did intend to paint them the other day, so within the next couple of weeks the paint should be done. I did say "should be"..

Stair view from the top

Since the drum rudders, we have moved to the transom steps where there were different ideas between Boatbuilder and Architect and the view from the 'top'....risers, treads and bull noses were the main subject for a wee while, and the decision was made.  The smallest detail was discussed and had to be just 'right'.

Here is where we have noticed there is a difference between boats and buildings. Boats still are not determined by common authority, but by customisation of how the occupiers are going to feel, how their visitors are going to feel using them - ease of use while holding piles of shopping, and of course to bring in the big fish before it gets away!...

So the steps have been re-designed to accommodate a new boarding platform (with oversized holes I suggested for easy dinghy rope attachment), plus the addition of another step to make it easier to get into the cockpit. Its got curves and flicks and everything...but it makes it kinda cool for our transom to have 'eyebrows'...

I really like the way that this boat is getting 'bling', it really makes it more of our own boat, with Craig's talent and good eye for things that will give it a special character, things that are often from thinking outside the square.