A rack where phones stay dry, charged, and in reach
Issue 111: Nov/Dec 2016
Here’s a simple project for 21st century sailors who want a safe and dedicated place to stow expensive little gizmos. I designed and fabricated a rack to safely stow his-and-her phones. It’s made from cherry and mahogany odds and ends that look great with a few coats of satin urethane varnish applied.
I made the center divider that separates the compartments wide enough for two holes that keep pencils at the ready. I used a Forstner bit to bore these holes as it allows good control and makes a clean cut. I made the slots in front just wide enough to permit the charging cord to remain attached to the phone while I put it in the rack, thus allowing my rack to serve as a charging station.
I mounted the rack far enough from the companionway to be safe from spray, but close enough that the phones are handy and can be heard when they ring. To attach the rack, rather than drill holes for fasteners, I used double-sided foam mounting pads. Technology will change, and when it does, I’ll just remove this rack and make a new one to suit.
Art and Sandy Hall, and their not-so-inclined-to-sail Pekingese, Kitri, can be found sailing Secret Water, their Allied Seabreeze 35, on Penobscot Bay, Maine. Occasionally they’ll push way Down East for some solitude. Art enjoys the challenge of keeping a good old boat going strong from season to season, decade to decade. Secret Water turned 50 two summers ago and is headed for a century.
Thank you to Sailrite Enterprises, Inc., for providing free access to back issues of Good Old Boat through intellectual property rights. Sailrite.com
