Gazing at Stars, Bridge Seating, Boat Alarms and more...

"For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream."

~Vincent Van Gogh

This past summer I visited the previous owner's warehouse.  I wrote about the treasures we found in a post titled: "'Treasures' Found."

One of the treasures we found was the original bridge seat.  When we first laid eyes on it, we couldn't believe that it had once been a seat (we almost didn't take it):

Yes, there is a seat in this pic!

This is a back-to-back bench seat that folds down into a bed.  Once I saw the seat, I knew that I needed to have one just like it back in place on the bridge.  You see, my mind immediately zoomed on the mental image of lying on the bed on a warm summer night looking at the stars...music, wine...(you get the picture).

I began searching for a replacement, and quickly discovered that seats like this are no longer made.  The only option would be to make one.

I considered rebuilding the seat myself, but realized that if I wanted it to stand up to the harsh elements I might need some help.

I called Dennis Pennington at DP Custom Upholstery in Cold Spring, Kentucky.  He came to my garage to see the seat, bearing sample fabrics and color charts.  He arrived in his van with his very cute pup, Rufus.  He offered lots of choices and ideas, and I chose a creamy colored marine vinyl with orange sections.

He loaded up the remains of the 40-year-old bridge seat, and away he went.  I told him I was in no hurry and would not need the seat until Spring.  A few weeks ago, he called to let me know that it was finished.

I have to admit, I was nervous to see the final product.  But, I could not be more delighted!  Here are some pics of the old and new:

Here is the original seat after we pieced it back together.

And this is my nice, new bridge seat!

This is a view of the original seat unfolded into a bed.

And here is the new seat!  Just beautiful!

I highly recommend Dennis at DP Custom Upholstery!  You can reach him at 859.441.5492.  

This is Dennis Pennington from DP Custom Upholstery with his very sweet, cute pup, Rufus!

Several people have asked where this seat will be placed.  It will go on the top of the boat at the outside helm (the bridge).  I will install it after I have a canvas cover made to protect it from the elements.  It will be placed where the green arrow is pointing:

On another note, I was lucky enough to be able to visit the Miami International Boat Show!  Saw lots of amazing boats and products there.  

Captain Gregg standing aboard a boat he'd love to own!

Here are my favorite take-aways:

• Silicone Rescue Tape!  

• Check out this video on rescue tape.  It's good stuff, and a good idea to have on a boat.

• Cobra C-Pod Security System:

• With this alarm system, I can receive an email and text message letting me know if any readings are off on any of the accessories I purchase.  I plan to purchase the:
• Smoke detector,
• Electronic Water Level Sensor,
• Motion detector, and
• 2 Magnetic Intrusion detectors (for each door).

She's getting closer and closer to ready for action.  

I am looking forward to taking her out on the river and anchoring--playing some music on my new sound system, having a glass of wine, and laying under the stars on the new bridge seat dreaming of adventures to come!