"...no one would want to steal it..."

Maybe. Depends on why they want it. Resale, parts, you are probably right. Transportation, if it runs and is easy to snatch, off it goes...

A stout cable amidships, between the spring lines, with a spliced loop on both end and secured with a lock onboard is likely to be far shorter and easier to handle than one on the bow.

A valve on the exhaust close to the through-hull serves to make the engine impossible to start, keeps pooping waves from swamping the engine, and may extend the life of the lift bend and exhaust manifold. Most slots in large marinas are difficult, if not impossible, to maneuver out of without use of an engine. The popular opinion us that most thieves would rather untie lines, start the engine and power off. Hoisting sail and active sail management is too much like work for most thieves.

It is also possible to remove the electrical links or fuses so that only one or two interior lights and the bilge pump/s will work. This makes starting the engine and otherwise stealing the boat much harder. It also goes a long was toward eliminating the risk of an electrical fire.

Key-lock switches can be inserted into the ignition circuits.

Most traditional hatchways are easy to break into. Stronger hinges and creative use of hasps, locks and latches can increase their security.

Is it possible to backup the hinges with steel bar stock on the backside? And also round off all the bolts or use carriage bolts?

"... pooping waves..."

You sailors do have a way with words...

It has been done but it is hard to suggest any specific design or changes simply because the designs vary so much. Generally what exists can be strengthened. The fittings, fasteners and structures can and should be replaced or reinforced.

The usual design is a series of washboards that slide down a track and block off the horizontal structure. These then are secured by a hood that slides over them.

Thicker, possibly marine plywood, boards can be substituted. These prevent, or at least slow, any attempt at splitting or breaking them so they can reach in. Thicker boards or plywood, especially if reinforced with woven roving and epoxy, will hold bolts more securely than the typical thin sawn boards if you want to hang a hasp and lock.

The tracks for the sliding hood can usually benefit from being reinforced. Many are well built for wave and wind action but they can be pried up pretty easily. Once lifted an inch or two it is easy to lift out the boards and gain entry. Stronger tracks stoutly fastened, preferably bolted through reinforced materials and backed with plates if possible, might be an option.


Some designs feature louvered saloon doors in front, outside, of the washboards. Many of these are fairly flimsy but the basic design has some merit. It allows convenient access and allows ventilation while keeping rain and spray out. It also allows some privacy and a small measure of security.

Generally the hinges might be lengthened, perhaps substituting a piano style hinge for the typical leafs, using longer and stronger screws, or better still, through bolts backed with large washers or backing plates mounted on a thicker reinforced structure. Thicker and better attached louvers would be a good start. Most you see can be broken out with a quick punch and a bit of finger work. If the lightweight doors saloon doors were replaced by sturdier models the security aspect could be improved. In effect making the louvered doors another layer of security that would have to be overcome before you could even begin on the main entry.

Of course if you use steel your going to want to use a high quality stainless steel. I like bronze. Aluminum bronze if it is a under a lot of stress. It isn't so important in this application, if your hatches tend to be underwater security is the least of your worries, but I like the look and the freedom from fatigue cracking and crevice corrosion.

Allowed to brown and waxed, instead of being kept bright, the maintenance isn't too difficult. A light wipe to remove the green haze and rewaxing, melted in with a torch if need be, and it looks both 'shippy' and right to me.

Good thoughts.

[I failed to mention I had owner permission to examine the boat whether or not he was there.]

How about an old fashion alarm system that has a loud horn? No criminal likes attention.

Any saltwater-rated internet-accessible remote camera systems out there?

A good marina (neighbors) is a start. Lock the door. Solar powered nightlight?

As Teacher mentioned getting to know your neighbors in the Marina is a plus. If there are some "semi-permanent" residents there they are usually a good source of information on who is roaming around the docks. After all, they don't want nefarious types around their "houses" either.

As with hunting cabins, or other vacation property, never store anything there you aren't prepared to lose.