Paikea’s Cockpit

The cockpit is the space we live in more than any other part of the boat — and like everything else on Paikea, most of what’s changed here started life on a race boat headed for the bin. A hardtop built from a salvaged America’s Cup foredeck section. Helm stations set up the way they are for real reasons, not fashion. This page pulls together what’s been done here so far, and what’s still coming.

The Build Series

Recycled Foredeck Pieces from an America’s Cup Yacht — The cockpit’s first real modification: a hardtop built from carbon-Nomex construction salvaged from a 2007 Swedish America’s Cup challenge, including an original three-man sliding hatch that solved the mainsail visibility problem a solid roof would otherwise create. Read more →

Why We Love Our Exposed Helm Stations — The real distinction in helm design isn’t single versus dual, or even position on deck — it’s protection. Why 99% of watches happen from inside, and why the exposed helms outside earn their place specifically for the moments that call for real hands-on control. Read more →

What’s Still Coming

The steering console rebuild — including the ex-America’s Cup trim tab wheels now wrapped in foam for the helm — hasn’t been properly documented yet. That’s changing with the next round of cockpit work: new carbon dinghy davits, and a solar panel remodel across the hardtop roof. Both will get added here once they’re built.

In the Library

For the full solar and power system context behind what’s planned for this cockpit, see Adding a 24-Volt System to a 30-Year-Old Catamaran and Making a Solar Bracket and Leaving Cadiz.