Mini bilge idea

[Eric.B]

After changing the seat layout I know realize bailing water out of the cockpit is going to be a little tougher. Under slatted floor boards do you think routing a ¾ trough 6 inches long into the bottom (2 ¼ wide keel underneath) would work to collect water. From that I could run ½ hose to pump it out. Or am I asking for trouble and should just make easy access for sponge or bailing bucket. (stevensons weekender) the red line is where I thought it should go.
Thanks for any insight

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3210/2312458945_ab05cd72ab.jpg

[kc8pql]

May be to late for you to do anything about it, but normally the cockpit sole slopes a bit, either forward or aft, so the water runs to one end. Drains are installed, usually one in each corner, with hoses that run to thruhulls and drain the water overboard. Pumping or bailing the cockpit every time it rains would seem to me to be a real pain.

Edit:
I take it all back. After rereading your post it seems that the sole is also the bottom of the hull?

[Hwyl]

I'd go for the easy access. Make it in a corner so you can sit there and your weight will create a low spot. Those gray hand operated dinghy pumps do a good job.

Edit, here's a red one
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41SP9TEHFEL._AA280_.jpg

[Eric.B]

Sorry my description was a little vague, yes that’s the bottom and it will have a drain plug aft. Basically this will only be used while in the water.

[Thorne]

I'd say try it without and add it (or another system) later if needed.

[dredbob]

Keep in mind that when a boat is sailing, it is almost never level or even at any single attitude for very long. Water is going to run to the lowest point, and it will NOT be in the center, but at either edge, and probably in a single corner, shifting as you tack, etc. Just keep a sponge handy.

Bob

[Woxbox]

Bob's right. The water won't stay put anywhere -- just carry a big sponge or two.

[Eric.B]

Thanks for the replies, all good points I never really thought of. I will skip this idea just make the space between the two seats separate from the rest of the slats for easy removal.