A sailboat has unique dynamics relative to temperature and humidity.
Unlike a house that only deals with inside and outside temperatures, a boat must also deal with a third element - water temperature. In addition, a boat is also generally closed-up in inclement weather further complicating the problem. The ice tea glass on a hot summer day is an excellent example of two different temperatures (the cold fluid inside and the warm air outside) that results in condensation. Similarly, clothing, books, gear and equipment inside lockers and drawers, and shelves onboard a fiberglass hull will absorb condensation that ultimately results in mold and mildew. Preventing condensation by proper ventilation is a priority at Shannon. All Shannons have foam core composite construction in the hull and deck to insulate against the air and water temperatures. There are no fiberglass interior liners or pans which trap condensation on the interior surfaces of cabins and lockers. All the vertical surfaces on the hull are held away from the fiberglass with 3/4" air space between the hull and the 1/2" wood "ceilings". All the lockers on Shannons including the galley lockers have wood ceilings. There is no vinyl or carpet glued to the hull to cover the fiberglass (and to absorb condensation.) All the locker and cabinets have louvers to allow the free movement of air. All the portlights are openings with bug screens. Every Shannon has a minimum of four deck dorade type baffled cowl ventilators to force fresh air into the cabins even in bad weather. Overhead opening hatches with screens are also included for fair weather ventilation. In addition, there can be numerous 12VDC fans carefully placed for a steady movement of air. With so many Shannon owners living aboard in the tropics and the far north, we have to put more emphasis on ventilation than any other builder
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