Can I use an in deck compartment as a cooler?

[Broater]

This may be a dumb question, but I'm new to boating and I dont want to screw anything up (or try to at least minimize my screw ups!). I have a 96 chris craft concept 21. There is a compartment just aft of the ski locker in the deck that has a drain in the bottom. What's this for? Can i use it as a cooler? Is that what it's for?IS the water that would drain from ice be a problem going into the hull? I can't find any manufacturers info on the boat, so any input would be appreciated!

 

[Bob's Garage]

Re: Can I use an in deck compartment as a cooler?

If there is a drain then it either goes into the bilge or out of the boat via a thru hull fitting. Put some water in the compartment and see where it comes out. Even if it goes to the bilge there should be no problem. However, just know that the compartment may not have insulation and the ice may melt quicker than in a cooler.

 

[Camel413]

Re: Can I use an in deck compartment as a cooler?

My boat has a compartment with a drain. The first time I took the boat out the ice lasted about 4 hours. I just pulled it out and sprayed the expanding foam on the outside of it, trimmed the foam so it would fit back into the compartment and now my ice last about 2 full days.

 

[Broater]

Re: Can I use an in deck compartment as a cooler?

Awesome, thanks guys. I'll try it first, but if it melts quick, the foam idea sounds like a great way to go. Thanks again!