Thwart/Deck Beam for 1960 Old Town Sport Boat

greghunt

Newfangled Boatbuilder
Hi folks,

I've been working off and on for a few years restoring a 16' Old Town Sport Boat. Things are coming along well and I'm close to wrapping canvas over the hull and filling. The boat originally had a plywood deck covering the bow. I prefer the boat without the little deck, so I will be keeping it open.

The question I have is if i need to put a thwart in to replace the old deck beam. I feel like this would be a good idea structurally and to keep the rails spread up front, but without the deck the thwart might look out of place.

Here is a link to a photo for reference:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BEWnrr1kzY1/?taken-by=greghuntmade

More photos of the restoration:
https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/oldtownboat/

Thanks for the help!

-Greg Hunt
 
The question I have is if I need to put a thwart in to replace the old deck beam. I feel like this would be a good idea structurally and to keep the rails spread up front, but without the deck the thwart might look out of place.

The usual response here begins "It's your boat..." There are plenty of sport boats that were built with short decks. Additional support there is not necessary from a structural perspective but it would be stronger. This is really a personal preference. Let us know what you decide.

Benson
 
I've restored a couple of sport boats... Short decks.
I don't think think you need to add any additional thwarts.
The bow seat, when attached to the seat rails, will give additional support.
 
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