Sailboat project meets rough-weather needs

[Banner Canvas] Ham Lake, Minn., U.S.A.

Everything about this was unique, according to Banner Canvas, which won an Outstanding Achievement Award for the sailboat project’s companionway dodger for travel in rough weather. It keeps water out from under front and sides, protects the custom mount of electronics, and allows for maximum visibility. Quick-release tension straps on either side of the companionway enable the dodger to fold down forward. The 33-foot opening’s size was a challenge. The frame and thin steel had to allow the winch lines through, rather than cutting through the fabric, and the inverted design needed to accommodate the electronics mounted on the inside with a custom-designed platform. A mounting frame was not possible on the deck of the boat with the combing in the way. Custom hinges were built for the frame to stack forward, with each frame designed at a different height. The fabric was attached by zip pockets and allowed to fold forward while in place. Flex-a-rail was attached to the front so it could pull to the rear.