FPB 78 Dream Machine – A New Approach to Forepeak Usage

The forepeak on our FPB Dream Machine is larger in scale than any previous designs. The higher forward freeboard makes it possible to have systems and storage placed below the sole of the forepeak area, which in turn opens up all sorts of possibilities.

In the following series of renderings we will show you two approaches to this area. The first has it set up as dual use space, primarily for storage, but available for occasional occupation by crew or overflow guests. The second set of renderings will show how this would look if we added hull and headliners, and upgraded the fit out to crew quarter standards.

Looking at the forepeak from the top down, will give you an idea of just how much volume is up here – a lot. As a comparison, the FPB 64 forepeak would top two frames (2.2m/7+ feet) forward of the watertight bulkhead. As this area is higher, it is also wider than the FPB 64, and much of the systems now installed on the FPB 64 will be under the sole in the FPB 78, so there is more space aft for storage. Now consider the stern of the boar and the lazarette which shares the storage duties, and you can see how we have lots of space available, if needed, for a role in the accommodation equation.

Entry is via the large foredeck hatch. This is positioned forward of what would be used as crew space, so if it leaks for any reason, or is used in a rain squall, moisture which finds its way below drops into the bilge without wetting the accommodation area.

Shown here are a pair of pipe berths, with lee clothes in place, that will provide perfect fender storage. The divider between this area and forward storage would be canvas, with a zip in door.

There is a simple sink, with a shower/toilet facility in the aft starboard corner.

Looking aft here from the divider bulkhead you can see the storage shelf unit. This could be used for crew/guest belongings, and will be ideal for smaller forepeak storage items like blocks, shackles, and short pieces of line. The head/shower area “bulkhead” is race boat style in canvas with a roll up door.

At a later date, if we decide we want this area fitted out to a nicer standard, we have the basics in place to make this happen easily.