Install mid ship hatch open forward or backwards ?

[JordanH]

Have you considered what is above the hatch?
Our mid-ship hatch opens aft. If it were to open forward, it would foul the boomvang. With an aft-opening hatch, we can leave it open 45 degrees while sailing without interfering with the running rigging.

Our boat does not have a lot of headroom either. Facing aft means you can poke your head out, or more frequently, pass tools through to someone on deck. Facing forward would be awkward to do given it's relation to the mast, boom, boomvang etc.

[JBsurfin]

Originally Posted by arch007

Going to install a midship hatch on a 28 ft sailboat.

1. Should hatch open forwards ?

Bow hatch opens forwards. Con easier for waves to wash in ?

Also pros and cons of a midship hatch such as another escape route ?

Any advice ?

Thanks.

My forward faces forward, my mid cabin face aft. Great airflow is the result.

[Tanqueray]

On my 32 foot sloop, with no dodger, my bow hatch opens forward, and my mid-ship hatch open towards the stern. I like this arrangement because when at the slip (I would suggest more time is spent there than at anchor, unless you are on a mooring), you can grab fresh air from forward or behind the boat.

Greg

[searenity38]

Face forward to catch the breeze at anchor.

[Ralsy]

What about a side opening hatch (port or starboard opening)?