PART 1:

I've been thinking about making a floor under the V-berth so I could use the large space between the tip out bins and the forward water tank. I've been a slacker since not only would the floor need to be fabricated but a small bulkhead should be fabricated and installed so whatever is stored there doesn't foul the tipout bins.

While at Home Depot today I found these 18 gallon Rubbermaid storage containers that fit pretty well on either side of the drawer unit.

I screwed the storage container to the top rail on either side of the drawer unit. The forward outboard corner of the storage container is also in contact with the hull, so it is supported there too.

The storage containers were less than $8 each and while still not using all the available space, at least provide more dry storage at a reasonable cost with very little work.

I will submit photos as soon as I figure out how to make them small enough to be accepted by the forum.

I'd also be interested how anyone else has used, modified or dealt with this area.

PART 2:

Has anyone opened up the areas between the cubby holes (under the Lewmar deadlights) behind dining area seat back cushion and below the game table? It seems that there is some good storage space there going to waste... Considering that Catalina did put openings in the side panels forward of this area that are pretty small, one would think they had a reason for not opening this area or did they?

That said, a neighbor just took delivery of a brand new C355. The trim rings and openings around the cubby holes are much larger, rectangular with rounded corners...more storage and easier access.

Any ideas?