Lewmar Flush Hatch gets the powerboater look

by PR on 1 Oct 2007 Lewmar's popular Flush Hatch - originally designed for mounting in molded deck recesses on sailboats - has been expanded in 2007 to include a Round Flush Hatch for powerboaters.

The attachment of the acrylic on top of the frame rather than underneath enables this 'no-frame' look to be achieved. The acrylic overhangs the frame and creates an uninterrupted meeting of the hatch lid with any deck construction material.

A number of leading powerboat OEMs in the U.K. and Italy have already specified the new Round Flush Hatch in new models, according to Lewmar's Bob Stevens, product manager - Hatch.

'The Round Flush Hatch offers the type of sleek aesthetics powerboaters prefer,' he said. 'Lewmar succeeded in meeting the challenge of creating a Round Flush Hatch that looks completely round on deck without any visible fasteners, yet still have a hinge base that offers the right strength and stability.'

The Round Flush Hatch, manufactured from the highest quality materials is the result of a significant investment in a new extrusion for the frame, new adhesive techniques for the acrylic, and production engineering within Lewmar to keep the price as competitive as possible.The hatch fits seamlessly into a specially designed recess in the deck. The precision of the fit makes for a sleek, modern look and means no more stubbed toes or protrusions that prevent deck cushions from lying flat.

The new Round Flush Hatch range is available in Lewmar's standard sizes 18, 22 and 27 in measurements of 490 mm (19-15/16-), 588 mm (23-1/8-), and 689 (27-1/8-in.) respectively. Unlike an aftermarket hatch, the Flush Hatch needs to be custom engineered by the OEM into the mold itself when the boat is created

Round Flush Hatches offer a new Dark Sport Tint Style acrylic option for the sleek blackout look made popular by sports cars and superyachts. Dark grey keeps cabins cooler and enhances the appearance of the boat. It has lower light transmission and a blacker, more reflective appearance. The standard tint is available as well.

The outside handles are easy to operate without a tool, yet will snap off if attempts are made to pry it loose when locked. Frame joints are fully welded instead of tack welded, which is common in lower quality competitive hatches.

Adds Lewmar's Bob Stevens, 'We believe we've revolutionised hatch design and have become the go-to company for designers looking for a high performance flush hatch solution to powerboat design.'