Hatches, Portlights & Wipers
Vetus marine hatches, portlights, and wiper systems. Quality deck openings and visibility solutions for all vessel types.
Overview
Natural light, ventilation, and clear visibility are essential for comfort, safety, and enjoyment onboard any vessel. Quality marine hatches allow fresh air and daylight below deck, portlights provide ventilation and aesthetic appeal, and reliable wiper systems ensure clear forward vision in rain and spray. These components must be engineered to withstand the harsh marine environment while maintaining a watertight seal under all conditions.
Luxfords supplies the complete Vetus range of marine hatches, portlights, and windscreen wiper systems. The Vetus hatch range includes flush-mounted deck hatches in various sizes, ventilation hatches with integrated mosquito screens, and heavy-duty commercial hatches. Portlights are available in opening and fixed configurations, in round, rectangular, and custom shapes. The Vetus wiper range includes pantograph and pendulum wiper systems with stainless steel arms, heavy-duty wiper motors, and complete wiper kits for wheelhouse and flybridge installations. All products are manufactured from marine-grade materials including stainless steel and UV-resistant synthetics.
Selecting hatches and portlights involves considering the deck or cabin opening size, the required level of ventilation, and whether the unit needs to serve as an emergency escape. Wiper system selection depends on the windscreen size, curvature, and desired sweep pattern. Luxfords can advise on the full Vetus range, assist with sizing and specification, and supply all necessary installation hardware including trim rings, gaskets, and fasteners.
Key Features
Applications
Frequently Asked Questions
What size hatch do I need?
Hatch sizing depends on the deck opening size, intended use (access, ventilation, emergency escape), and any regulatory requirements for minimum opening dimensions. Contact Luxfords with the cutout measurements and intended purpose for a recommendation from the Vetus range.
Are Vetus hatches and portlights suitable for both sailboats and powerboats?
Yes, Vetus hatches and portlights are designed for use across all vessel types including sailboats, powerboats, motor yachts, and commercial craft. The range includes low-profile flush hatches suited to sailboat decks and larger cabin hatches for powerboat and cruiser applications. Luxfords can recommend the most suitable models for any vessel type.
What type of wiper system is best for a marine windscreen?
The best wiper system depends on the windscreen size, shape, and curvature. Pantograph wipers provide a wide, even sweep and are ideal for large, flat windscreens. Pendulum wipers suit smaller or curved screens. Vetus offers systems in both configurations with variable speed control and self-parking features. Luxfords can help match the right system to the vessel's windscreen dimensions.
Can Luxfords supply replacement seals and gaskets for existing hatches?
Yes, Luxfords stocks replacement seals, gaskets, and hardware for the Vetus hatch and portlight range. Over time, rubber seals can degrade due to UV exposure and compression, leading to leaks. Replacing seals is a cost-effective way to restore watertight performance without replacing the entire hatch unit.
