swim grid

[michaelmrc]

am looking for ideas on how to build a swim grid for our 27ft catalina thanks

[denverd0n]

Swim grid? Not a term familiar to this American. Are you talking about a platform on the back of the boat for easily getting into and out of the water?

[michaelmrc]

that would be the one ive always known it as a swim grid or swim platform

[Ex-Calif]

Michael - This seems a difficult question to answer. What is it you are trying to achieve?

You could have a full length transom mount. Yiou could add the capability to fold it up. Or you can buy a swim platform made from stainless steel ready to go that bolts on.

You also have to consider how much weight capacity you are planning for. This may require interior reinforcing and perhaps some extensive fiberglass work.

Pictures of the transom of your boat might be helpful as well.

[David M]

For a sailboat your sized I would be more inclined to buy a swim ladder that is easily removable.

[michaelmrc]

thanks everyone im not really sure what i want yet. just thought it would be nice to have a swim platform to get into the boat and perhaps double as a base to mount my dinghy. i have a removeable swim ladder already it works fine but just looking for other options.

[SilentOption]

If you do opt for a full length swim platform you need to pay attention to the design. Most sailboats that I have been on with full platforms across the stern end up with a corner of the frame dragging in the water when the boat heals.
If you can fold it up that would be ideal.
Another issue with big swim platforms that are fixed and not folded can occur when running down swell. If you get pooped think about how much water will suddenly be supported by the platform or grid structure.
My boat has a platform thats too large and it does drag and although its fine for the type of sailing we are currently contemplating I wouldn't expect it to survive an ocean passage in rough conditions.

As far as the original question is concerned. You can talk to a marine fabricator and I am sure they will be able to look at your boat and make some suggestions. The next thing I would do is walk a few docks and look for something you like on another boat. Take a photo of it and go from there. My grid a is 1.5 inch stainless frame with a deck on top. It looks every bit like what you would see on a ski boat.

[mikereed100]

Michael,

I have seen a foldup swim platform retrofitted to a Cat 30. This was a simple teak lattice attached to the tramson. They also cut away the transom down to the level of the lazarette and trimmed it with teak. There was a cutout in the pushpit as well. The whole thing looked very practical and should be possible on a 27 as well. If I ever get a few spare weekends i will do the same myself.

Mike