On a 30' sailboat the forward hatch is located only a few feet from the bow. The problem is how to mount a windlass at the existing hatch cover position. I am considering decking over the forward hatch area for mounting and then moulding a new cover for the opening remaining. This would allow for a solid deck section and a backing plate for the windlass and allow access to the anchor rode locker. Any thoughts or experiences with this problem?
