I don't care for the Pygmy bulkhead/hatch kit either. Can anyone give me advice on alternatives? I was thinking either:

1. Install a bulkhead with a cutout and seal that drops down, allowing access from the cockpit instead of on top. I think there is a commercial mfr that has this system, does it work? Might be OK since the AT14 is so short, worse in front than in rear of course. Has anyone done this?

2. Buy a commercial hatch kit (Valley, probably) and install that front and rear.

Either way I'll be constructing my own bulkheads. Should I install them before or after I attach the deck?

Any advice appreciated. I'm not an advanced boatbuilder, and I hope this won't be over my head.