Windows

[MasnDixn]

I have been looking at pictures of the C-Dory and reading this forum for about 6 months now. Mainly interested in the 22 ft cruiser. Just wondering if anyone has modified the side windows so they open more to allow for more openness/airflow in the cabin. I guess you would have to make the whole window removable, ie, take it out then put it back in rather than a sliding window that only opens up about 1/3 to halfway. Preventing water leaks would be a main concern for any modification. Most owners seem to be up north where 90 to 100 degree summer weather is very rare. Here in the south (Memphis to Florida) airflow and ventiliation would be a big plus.
Thanks in advance for your comments.
Mason.

[DodgeRam]

Interesting , maybe you could get yourself a custom made C- Dory with a removable top, then you could call it a C-Breeze ?

[Levity]

It does get hot and humid on the Chesapeake . On hot 90-95F and humid 70% weather the cabin is comfortable while the boat is making way. The center opening window acts as a wind tunnel and funnels air through the cabin. Once stopped and with the Bomar open the cabin is no warmer than the ambient air. The enclosed cabin prevents the sun from creating a heat sink out of the different masses that make up the interior. It will be interesting to hear from those who boat in your latitudes.
Mike 'Levity'

[rcwass]

I have a 1990 22' Cruiser. I lived in the San Francisco Bay area when I purchased this boat new. I then moved to Maryland and cruised the Potomac River. That was my really first time I had to deal with high heat and high humidity. My boat didn't have an opening front center window. I purchased a replacement from C-Dory only to find the old hole to be slightly larger then the new window, mainly in the corners. The old window had corners that were more square. I was able to center the new window so it covered the hole on the outside but the hole can be seen from the inside, a small amount in each corner. That added ventilation makes a big difference.

Now, the gaskets in the aft windows on each side and the rear two windows as well as the window in the door are all shrinking because of the sun, I guess. I tried removing one of the windows with no luck. Whatever adhesive they used is quite strong and I don't want to damage the frame, just replace the gasket. I had no problem removing the front window but the others are harder. If anyone has had better luck removing these windows, I'd like to know how it was done. I did find a source for the gasket.

Thanks,
Dick

[Bluecrab]

Second what Levity said. Before I bought our boat I was a little concerned about how hot it would get inside, but it just hasn't been an issue. I'd try it for a while before messing with the windows - doubt if you'll feel the need.

[El and Bill]

We agree with Levity -- hatch in V-berth and opening center window, plus open door aft (all with bug screens, when necessary), gives plenty of ventilation. If the air is still, we have a small 12v fan to plug into the cig lighter and that nicely circulates air.

On Florida's St. John River, we had a couple of little grandkids in the V-berth -- hot evening -- uncomfortable and a bit of trouble for them to get asleep -- directed the fan into the V-berth and they were snoring in less than a minute.

[Sea Wolf]

There's a fan called the "Endless Breeze" made by Fantastic Fans that makes RV fans that is pretty amazing. 12 volt, three speeds, and very efficient. It's about 14 x 14 x 4 inches, and can move as much air as a typical 120 volt box fan for residential use. Uses from about 1 1/4 amp up to 2.6 amps on high speed.

Bob Austin (Thataway) has stted before that he added dowels, I believe, to two sides of the motor and mounted it in the front hatch for ventilation.

West Marine wants about $110 for one, but several RV dealers will sell you one for $59.95. Froggle it!

Joe.