Sail Lifevideo
⛵️ DIY Hurricane-damaged catamaran: Engine compartments, floors, and battery shelf Ep619
9 March 2025 · 23 min · 104K views · United States
What this video covers
Refitting a hurricane-damaged 44-foot catamaran requires installing temporary flooring and engine-related infrastructure.Watch To create a stable work surface, marine-grade plywood was cut to fit the saloon and hull soles, though inconsistencies in the boat's original construction necessitated trimming and custom-fitted supports made from 2x4 lumber.3:51 The project also involved removing water-damaged wiring from the old navigation station and clearing debris to improve workspace accessibility.9:28
Engine compartments were prepared for reinstallation by applying TotalBoat TotalBilge, a one-part epoxy-based paint chosen for its durability against solvents and oils.13:41 New starter battery shelves were designed for the port hull using Optima Red Top 44-amp-hour batteries.20:12 To ensure future maintenance access, the shelves were engineered to be removable by securing them to the hull with stainless steel T-nuts.19:30 A single coat of epoxy was applied to the new plywood floors to protect the surface from spills and grime during the ongoing refit.17:43 Proper film thickness remains essential when using epoxy as a moisture barrier for plywood.18:48
Boats in this video
More from Sail Life
From Sail Life — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.



