I fold the stock hatch in half and stick it under the f'ward bunk
cushion when day sailing. When open ocean cruising, I keep it handy
just inside the companion way, in case tanker wake or other waves occur!
That plastic Judy refers to is GREAT! In fact I'll bet your wife has
one in the kitchen she may not even miss! (oops!) 'Tis her new white
plastic cutting board! Cuts like wood, shapes with a rasp or block
plane and West Marine sells (or used to sell) fancy GPS holders, etc.
made of the stuff for mucho $$$ ! So as you cruise garage sales, watch
for the large panels (large cutting boards) of this stuff! Another
great plastic is Corion counter-top material! Better than Alum. or wood
for backing chain plates, o/board motor mounts, etc. Scraps are
generally FREE from finish carpenters.
Happy Sailing!
Larry of Monterey YUUKI HMS18 #35