How to Install a Used Sailboat Bow Pulpit

The restoration of a Venture 17 sailboat  would be incomplete without a used bow pulpit installed.  I didn't want to spend a fortune on a custom made pulpit  (I've done that in the past - pricey $$) and trying to make my own from aluminum rail or stainless steel pipe wasn't working out.  I scoured Craigslist and other local sources for a used one without any great success until stumbling onto a used one for a Cal 25.  Obviously the Cal is much larger than this little 17 but I figured I would give it a try.  As it turned out, it fit very well, gives a nice forward rake, and makes the forward deck feel even larger as the rails swing out a little bit.  It even came with the stainless steel hardware.

The installation is simple.  Just line it up until it looks right, mark the holes, and then drill them out.  Use boat caulk/life caulk around all the holes and the mounting plates.  Also use washers top and bottom.  A full backing plate inside would have been an even better idea.

Bow pulpits are almost a necessity for safety as far as I'm concerned for any kind of sail work upfront.  Without one there is simply nothing to grab while bouncing around.

Thanks for taking a look.