We just added a rain and UV cover for the instrument panel.
** Refer to Prior blog entry : 8-3-18.

This canvas was made by the guy that did our recent dodger and used the same color and trim scheme. He does very good work.
I gave him a paper pattern to copy. Note that this style of cover can be used on many 80's Ericson's with the molded-in recess for the engine panel, under the aft edge of a cockpit seat hatch.
Our old panel was severely damaged by both UV and moisture. While this would offer very little protection in case of a boarding sea, that possibility is 99.99% unlikely during our planned future use of this boat. (!)
(Matter of fact I have been on only one delivery where we had the cockpit filled up - once - at about 3 am during gale force conditions.... in 30 years of deliveries.)
When using the engine, you just lift up the seat and flip the cover over so that it falls inside. Even with the added thickness of the fabric when doubled, the seat does - barely - clear it.
Now not only will the panel and gauges last longer, but the clear acrylic panel over it will last longer as well.
Cost for the cover was about $40. Seemed like a bargain to me, since I do not know how to sew.
Note also that the lower edge does have a slender weight sewn into the hem.
Edit: I asked the canvas guy, Josh, about the weight and it turns out to be "crab line" -- rope with lead woven in, used commonly for the the lines on crab pots.
Edit: add a picture taken several winters ago, after a multi-day snow & wind event at the Club, which is located near the mouth of the Columbia River Gorge. Winters can be pretty harsh some times. This storm filled up the whole rear part of the boat -- i.e. everything in the lee of the cabin.
Some places around the Club saw drifts over 2 feet. The East wind blew hard for several days with temps in the low 20's. So yup, it's good to protect the instruments from snow. :eek: