Sometimes a simple twist of a cowl or a change in the type of vent you use in certain locations will noticeably improve air flow below decks.

1. Protective line-guards can quickly earn their keep. We’ve lost to cowls overboard, and sheets that snag during tacks are dangerous.



2. By placing the ventilator in the hatch, one less hole is needed and the deck remains clear. Unfortunately, it blocks light and introduces potential leaks.



3. Marinco Day/Night Plus vent moves air 24 hours per day, keeping the interior air temperature and humidity in equilibrium with the outside.



4. Dorade boxes need not be fancy. It’s just a box with a baffle and perimeter water drains.



5. Our test shows that airflow through cowls drops by 65 to 80 percent if they don’t face the wind. On unattended boats that are stored in marinas with variable winds, you can point the cowls in four different directions to maximize flow.