> If you're installing a rear hatch (which I assume you are), then wait
> until after installing the deck. It's enough of a PITA installing the deck
> without having to worry about lining up the hatch correctly. If you've
> waited until you build the deck (and maybe even the cut the cocpit and
> raise the coaming) then you can sit in the boat, reach around, and
> determine exactly where it will be most comfortable to reach the hatch.

I'm still building my first wooden boat, so can't comment on the timing issue. But I have installed day hatches in fiberglass boats, and would second the idea of a full, watertight bulkhead for reasons of safety --- inadvertent water incursion --- and convenience --- being able to reach the stuff you want. With a 7.5 inch VCP hatch, I don't have any problem reaching around to access anything in the day hatch area, and find the entire volume accessable (in a VCP Pintail, not a high volume boat, by any means). The only caution I would add (from negative experience) is to position the hatch installation for convenience of access in a spot where you won't find yourself grabbing or pressing down on the hatch flange during entry and exit. This is all the more important if you let others use your boat --- which is why I can't let anyone else use the Pintail anymore: the hatch is now a perfect handrest during entry and exit, and wouldn't last long in that capacity.

Jack Martin