I wanted doors that were easy to use, self-storing, AND attractive. These doors are full 1 inch thick teak with acrylic inserts. The light borders around the windows are hickory trim strips. Now my heated or air conditioned air will, hopefully, stay in the boat.

Teak doors turn it into the 280LE (Luxury Edition)

Note that the doors were installed to allow the use of the original drop boards behind the doors if conditions get really bad, or you just want the extra security for long-term storage.

Doors Open

Of course the primary purpose of installing the doors was to provide easy access, and I believe I have accomplished that. With the narrow companionway of the 280 the doors are small enough that they take up very little space, even when open. If they get in the way of line handling it is easy enough to close them to get them out of the way.

Doors Open Two

The centerline edges of the doors have complementary concave/convex rounded edges that help seal against the elements when they are closed. That feature also prevents the doors from being opened when the hasp is locked. The starboard door uses the original hasp that was on the top drop board. (See the hasp in photo #1.)

Just Another View

I believe it gives the boat a much warmer, finished look. I dont see any downside to these doors. I noticed that even Hunter is putting hinged doors on the H41 and some of the other larger boats

From Inside

There is almost NO reduction in the opening. Also note that the pocket/grab handle prevented me from designing the doors to swing inside.

From Inside Open