"Day Cruiser Storage Solution"

I have a couple of questions for the helpful people here:

Is it safe to have a toddler under there while under way? (Reckless driving, not withstanding)

If so, I would like to do something to manage the storage area under there, so that she is not lying on oars and water-skis. I was thinking of something as basic as straps looped from top to bottom of the support structures (those vertical, flat pieces of fiberglass perpendicular to the wall that curve inward between the floor and the underside of the bow (ceiling?)) into which I could feed the long unwieldy gear. Is this a good idea? Maybe someone here could suggest something.

This boat uses what I believe is called the international lighting scheme, with a masthead light in the "dashboard"/console. The masthead light, which is now missing, was a pole mounted light that plugged into a two-prong base and used a locking collar. I haven't had much luck finding a light suited to this specific application. Can someone direct me or should I start shopping for a whole new masthead setup or even redo the lighting scheme? I really like the fact that the light could be removed for day running, since that area is frequently climbed over for sunning on the bow. (On the deck? fore-deck?)

Lastly, I'm sure that any mechanic automotive or marine could tell me this, but I forgot to ask when I took it in to be winterized: Does anyone have a guess as to what engine (stock) this boat has?

I have gotten a lot of great info here and wish to thank the contributors for sharing their knowledge. Kirk Suffka.

Did you mean to say that you used the foam padding naked instead of with the vinyl(?) cover? If so, is it the kind of stuff that might cause rashes in contact with sensitive skin? Was if a matter of breathability? Could the padding be covered with fabric? Did you affix them to the floor? What kind of boat do you have?

What about making the padding removable for drying (Velcro, etc)? Also, is it worthwhile to look at padding that's marine specific (i.e. mold, mildew resistant?)

I'm sorry about pestering everyone here, but I assure you I am taking notes and will post pictures when I get started.

Unrelated request: suggestions for non-slip mat for the bow. It should be removable, drain well, non-marring. Durability and ease of storage are minor concerns. Also, the edges could be anchored to the bases of the bow rail supports. Just so no one needs to ask, this would not be used while underway; the boat serves a raft much of the time, and my wife will be in her second and third trimester this summer. I'm therefore trying to make the boat as easy to get around on as possible.

My sincere thanks to all of you. Kirk Suffka.

Thanks for the reply. She knows she has to put on her vest before she gets into the boat. The only issue is getting Mom and Dad to set a proper example.

About the storage: what about another wall on one or both sides of that space parallel to the side of the boat to make a sort of cubby with the center left free and uncluttered? I would like to put some sort of dense gym mat down (cut to fit) over the carpet and could put some on the walls as well. Also, I've entertained the notion of sleeping under there the night before the start of the fishing season here in Minnesota (sans family.) It's not a good fishing boat, I know, but I'm not a good fisherman.

Anyway, I just really like the idea of having a child-sized space under the bow and I'll never get another chance with this one. But it has to be safe and functional.

Another Question: Can anyone think of any other cool amenities for my daughters "house" as she calls it? I've ruled out the DVD player so far, because that's not the experience I'm trying to give her (might reconsider with the terrible two's knocking,) but any suggestions about decorations, comfort features, etc. would be greatly appreciated.

P.S., would you call this a kiddy kabin?

Fishing pole, naturally. Never too young to get them on the godly path of fishing.

I've let young kids play in the cuddy, but only when anchored or moving *very* slowly. A decent sized wake, while you are planing, will have the kid bouncing all over the place. -- 'Til next time,

John H

***** Have a Spectacular Day! *****