Lewmar builds three main sailboat deck hatch families — Low Profile (25 mm lids), Medium Profile (32 mm lids), and the classic Ocean Hatch (9.53 mm acrylic) — and the right one depends on where it sits and how much strength you need. Low and Medium Profile hatches give you smooth, snag-free styling for ventilation and foredeck use, while the rugged Ocean Hatch is built for offshore boats that take heavy weather.
Lewmar hatch range at a glance
| Hatch family | Lid / acrylic thickness | Best for | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Profile Hatch | 25 mm lids | Small day sailors to mid-size yachts | Ventilation; foredeck on smaller boats |
| Medium Profile Hatch | 32 mm lids | Larger offshore yachts | Foredeck, high-load placements |
| Ocean Hatch | 9.53 mm acrylic | Offshore & bluewater boats | Ventilation (size 00) to foredeck (size 70) |
| Pilot Hatch | Matches Low/Medium styling | Power craft & wheelhouses | Cockpit canopies, wheelhouse roofs |
How do I identify which Lewmar hatch I have?
The three primary Lewmar hatches look similar at a glance but differ in frame depth and lid or acrylic thickness. Low Profile lids are 25 mm thick, Medium Profile lids are 32 mm thick, and the Ocean Hatch uses 9.53 mm acrylic in a deeper, more rugged frame. Measuring the lid thickness is the quickest way to tell them apart before ordering spares such as lid assemblies or seal kits.
What is the difference between Low Profile and Medium Profile hatches?
The Low Profile Hatch is designed with smooth, soft styling that is less likely to snag lines or feet, making it practical across many deck locations — smaller sizes for ventilation and larger sizes as foredeck hatches on medium sailboats. The Medium Profile Hatch keeps those same modern lines but adds thicker acrylic and deeper frame sections for extra strength, so it is the better choice for foredeck placement on larger offshore yachts. It also uses Lewmar's unique sealing system for easier acrylic replacement.
When should I choose a Lewmar Ocean Hatch?
The classic Ocean Hatch is the choice for offshore and bluewater boats that need maximum protection against harsh elements. Its rugged construction has made it a popular fit on thousands of boats worldwide, and it is available with or without a protruding flange (flat base). Sizes run from 00, ideal for ventilation, up to size 70 for foredeck hatches on large yachts.
Which Lewmar hatch should I choose for my deck location?
For general ventilation and mid-size boats, a Low Profile or Round Low Profile Hatch offers the sleekest, most snag-free option. For foredeck use on larger offshore yachts, step up to the Medium Profile for added strength, or the Ocean Hatch when maximum durability and weather protection matter most. Pilot Hatches are purpose-built for power craft wheelhouses and cockpit canopies, styled to match the Low and Medium Profile ranges for a cohesive deck look.
Frequently asked questions
How thick are Lewmar Low Profile hatch lids?
Low Profile Hatch lids are 25 mm thick, while Medium Profile lids are 32 mm and Ocean Hatches use 9.53 mm acrylic.
Can I use a Lewmar hatch as a foredeck hatch?
Yes. Larger Low Profile sizes work as foredeck hatches on smaller to mid-size yachts, while Medium Profile and larger Ocean Hatch sizes (up to size 70) are suited to foredecks on larger offshore boats.
Are Ocean Hatches available in a flat-base version?
Yes. Lewmar Ocean Hatches come with or without a protruding flange, so you can choose a flat base to suit your deck installation.
Which Lewmar hatch is best for offshore sailing?
The Ocean Hatch is the most rugged option, built for maximum protection offshore; the Medium Profile is a strong alternative where you want the smoother modern styling.
Can I replace just the lid or seal on my Lewmar hatch?
Yes. Lewmar offers spare lid assemblies, seal kits, and hinge kits by hatch size, and the Medium Profile sealing system is designed for easy acrylic replacement.
What is a Lewmar Pilot Hatch used for?
The Pilot Hatch is designed for power craft wheelhouses and cockpit canopies, with styling that complements the Low and Medium Profile ranges.