The
curvaceous shapes of the Whitehaven cats are not only
for aesthetics and reduced windage but are there also
to provide more space inside where it is of greatest benefit.
In the hulls the flair on the outer side provides more
space at workbench height and above at eye level. This
is particularly of benefit in the galley allowing larger
bench space. It is most noticeable in the forward double
cabins where the Whitehaven 10.95, has as much room as
some 15 metre cats. On the inner side of the hulls the
flair continues into the underwing curve, similar to a
chamfer panel but with greater continuity. This allows
the underwing to flow into the hulls further strengthening
the whole structure. On deck
between the side deck and cabin is the middle deck curve.
The purpose of this part of the deck is to allow headroom
where required. This gives sitting headroom in the forward
berths, an absolute necessity on a cruising boat, and
allows for more headroom when stepping down into the hulls
while at the same time reducing overall windage. Forward
of the mast are 2 long steps to the forward catwalk. In
these steps are flush hatches into the large deck lockers
between the berths. Despite
what other designers might say, getting around on deck
is as easy as on a flat deck but without the need to get
out the climbing equipment to access the cabin top.
