What is a Deck Hatch?

A Deck Hatch is an opening in the deck of a boat that allows fresh air flow, bright sunlight, and easy access between the upper and lower deck. Most common on sailboats and yachts, deck hatches can be a practical addition to a wide range of boats available on the market.

When it comes to marine deck hatches, the Man Ship brand is second to none. The attention to detail and high quality materials used prove to be far superior in the boating industry, setting a high standard for competitors. Since all Man Ship deck hatches are machine rolled, there are endless options when it comes to design, size, and functional capabilities. In this article, you will learn the key similarities and
differences between the Man Ship Standard Deck Hatch and Low Profile Deck Hatch. You will also learn how to ID which style is on your boat, which will help you in selecting a replacement.

Similarities

Structurally, the Standard and Low Profile Deck Hatches are very similar in a lot of ways. They are made of the same materials, include most of the same functional mechanisms, and share a lot of similar capabilities when it comes to customization. Like most other Man Ship products, these Deck Hatches are built with 316 stainless steel frames and can be customized with a variety of opening options and handle upgrades. Some features and specs both Deck Hatch variations share include:

• 316 stainless steel frames, hatch, hatch arms and hinges

• Hand polished and electro-polished to protect against corrosion

• Frames and hatches are made from machine rolled stock to ensure strength and low weight

• Easy to operate stainless arms allow full 180 degree opening with pull-turn knobs to hold the hatch open

• Adjustable injection molded Nylon 66 handles

• Set screw adjustment in each hinge to avoid hinge pins coming out

• Tough, UV resistance of acrylics are available in grey (standard), clear and tint green

• Inside opening, outside opening and double opening available

• Inside/outside models with 100% stainless steel snag-free handle

• Double opening models with quick snap release dogs and 100% stainless fast pins for quick and easy change of hinge location

• Gaskets are oil resistant Sanplane

• Off-white powder coating are available

Differences

When looking at these two different style Deck Hatches side by side, you can visually see a difference. The Low Profile Deck Hatch sits lower to the deck at 1-1/4" tall, providing an elegant, sleek aesthetic. When the hatch is closed, you will notice that there are no bolt holes showing, further complimenting it’s flush design. And to top it all off, you are able to upgrade the standard arm to a gas arm on the Low Profile Deck Hatch if needed. This option is not available for the Standard version. On the contrary, the Standard Deck Hatch protrudes a little more from the deck at 1-7/8", sitting a little higher than the Low Profile version. When installed, the mounting holes are visible on the flange due to it’s top-mounted design, giving it a slightly different look. A few features the Low Profile Deck Hatch includes that the Standard Deck Hatch does not are:

• Low profile and elegant appearance

• No bolt holes showing when hatch is closed

• Standard arm can be changed to gas arm if needed

ID Your Deck Hatch

If you are trying to identify which Deck Hatch is on your boat, you’ll want to start with the visual appearance. The Low Profile Deck Hatch sits more flush on your deck while the Standard version is slightly more noticeable. The edges are more rounded off on the Low Profile version, and more boxed on the Standard. Another thing to consider is how your Deck Hatch is mounted: if it is mounted flush to the deck, it’s likely the Low Profile Deck Hatch, and if it is top-mounted with visible bolt holes, it is likely the Standard Deck Hatch. We have included comparison photos in this article, but if you are still having trouble identifying which Deck Hatch is on your boat, please email us a picture and we will be happy to assist you.

Standard Deck Hatch (DH)

Low Profile Deck Hatch (LDH)

Where to Buy a Deck Hatch

Marine Depot Direct is the preferred distributor for all Man Ship products sold in the US. We regularly stock a selection of standard sized inside opening stainless steel Deck Hatches, but can accommodate any custom orders with a lead time of 90-120 days. You can browse our current available selection here.

If you would like to get a quote on a custom Man Ship Deck Hatch, please visit our Resources page and download the Custom Deck Hatch Order Form. Fill out the form to the best of your abilities, email it to us at [email protected], and we will send you a quote as soon as possible.