Change size windows/portholes on a catamaran?

[Mike Banks]

Yes it will affect the integrity of the hull structure if one merely cuts a hole and fits a larger window.

Personally, having lived aboard, I do not like large windows. More smaller windows is safer for the same amount of light and it is better distributed. Also, smaller port lights can be of the opening sort and screened for mosquitoes.

So no--I would not fit larger ones. I have found that many vessels have too much light coming in in the one place and insufficient in others. If I want a good view of the surroundings, topsides is the best place to get it.

By re-designing the hull area near the proposed enlargement, then beefing up the thickness surrounding the proposed opening and fitting more reinforcements to the hull framing it would be possible to make a window larger. Is it worth it? I doubt it. It all depends on how large it was in the first place.

If all one needs is more light, an opening polycarbonate hatch mounted in the roof of the saloon or cabin is often a better option. That is not so disruptive of the working sinews of the vessel.