Need some ideas on my winter project...

[fcearl]

My physical disability has progressed to the point that I am having trouble moving around in my 14' Deep V aluminum boat. I would like to install a flat floor and possibly a small raised deck from the number 2 seat up to the bow. This deck would be on the two seats and bolted in place. I will also install somewhat higher side rails than one might expect, just to steady myself while moving. This is going to be a winter long project and my first question to the group is can I safely install a raised deck (no higher than existing seats) with one swivel seat? my second and probably the most important one, what is the best light weight material for this project? I will add photo's as I progress. I'm not going to let a little thing like not being able to walk, keep me from those bass holes I've been fishing for years...............

 

[Woodonglass]

What's your Beam width of your boat? Raising the C.O.G. of the boat will make it more "Tipsy" with your disability that would NOT be a good thing. If the Beam is wide then possibly you could get away with it. Keeping it at the height of the seats would be the best way to do it for sure. You might want to rivet some angle aluminum to the sides of the mid seat and the bow seat so the deck could be at the exact height of the seats and that way you would not be raising the height at all. Post up some pics of your boat so we can see what your working with.

 

[rivermouse]

I have a 14 deep V also. I would not suggest standing up at all but an elevated seat could help depending on your physical limits. If fishing is the goal perhaps a telescoping swivel seat that you can raise up to give you fishing room and then retract when you get back to riding. The problem I see is how to put the boat in and out by yourself if standing is hard to do. Most accidents do occur at the landing you know. I have bad arthritis and have been trying to deal with this myself. good luck