I know there are quite a few postings on our Forum discussing refinishing of brightwork, replacement of washboards with openable doors, and other wood maintenance and upgrade topics. Maybe this will offer one more choice to consider.

At the Seattle Boat Show last weekend I came across the exhibit stand of Paul Hoffmann, who's small Seattle-based company is called Brighterworks. He manufactures plastic replacement companionway boards and handrails, and to my eye, he does a fine job of it.

[URL="http://www.brighterworks.com"]http://www.brighterworks.com[/URL]

He has a companionway option that has changeable insert. Just quickly disassemble the door with the T-handled allen wrench and insert the filler of your choice (solid, smoked plexiglas, frosted, clear, a bug screen, whatever). He has a cockpit table, as well. See photos I took (under not very flattering lighting...sorry).

I have promised myself that when High Flight's next washboard refinish job comes up I am going to check this fellow out. HF has only four remaining pieces of exterior wood (three washboards and the flag staff), and that is four too many, in my honest opinion.

[Disclaimer: I just met Paul at the show and have no potential financial gain from this posting.]