Havant, UK - As world leaders in hatch design and innovation, Lewmar®, a Lippert® brand, has designed and developed an ultra-slim hatch, combining practicality, aesthetics, and ease of installation. Offering substantial benefits to OEMs and end users alike, the Ultra Low Profile Hatch (patent pending) is the perfect blend of utility and elegance. With the initial prototype launched at the METSTRADE exhibition in November 2023, the first production units are available globally now and will launch in the USA in October.

Elevate your view, minimise the profile

With flush, clean lines that minimise the impact on deck aesthetics, the Ultra Low Profile hatch sits a mere 10mm above the deck, ensuring a sleek and unobtrusive profile.

Robust

The design builds on the proven Lewmar Low Profile hatch system and the product is CE approved. The lid is crafted as standard from grey acrylic making it durable and lightweight. The corrosion-resistant lower frame features a silver anodised aluminium finish, providing excellent resistance even in harsh marine environments. Multiple seal profiles are used to guarantee compression and excellent watershedding capabilities.

Practical

Not only does the new Ultra Low Profile hatch provide an elegant option for OEMs that can be incorporated into new designs with ease, it also offers a seamless and straightforward retrofit solution. The matched cut-out design aligns with current Lewmar Low Profile, Medium Profile and Ocean Hatch installations, as well as other brands of hatch (please verify dimensions and corner radius) without requiring modifications or additional deck drainage holes; the design does not require an additional recess to achieve the flush aesthetic, which saves any costs associated with adapting deck mouldings. The hatch is also compatible with existing trims and flyscreens, saving any additional expense and making it a cost effective solution.

Cutting-edge

The Ultra Low Profile hatch features a newly redesigned hinge system, and the friction lever mechanism ensures the lid is held open securely in any position up to 90 degrees. The design offers two versatile external handle options. The flush bi-square handle offers a seamless look. Alternatively, an option for external opening handles on selected sizes (excludes sizes 10, 20 and 41) adds convenience and supports regulation compliance. A 360° vent position ensures optimal airflow throughout the boat for comfort and freshness without the need for expensive air-conditioning.

Made in the UK

New internal bend tooling and internal punch tooling have been designed and machined on site at the Lewmar factory in Havant, enabling fully in-house production.

Lewmar’s Managing Director, Matt Johnston, says of the Ultra Low Profile Hatch: “We’re delighted to launch Lewmar’s lowest profile hatch to date, combining robust construction with elegant design. Whether you’re building a new boat or upgrading an existing one, this hatch provides a sleek solution. This innovative product expands our already extensive hatch offering, providing an option that will enhance the sleek designs of new motor and sailing yachts entering the market. For boaters seeking an affordable way to enhance the appearance of their boats, this retrofit solution offers an effortless option.”

ABOUT LIPPERT MARINE GROUP EUROPE

Lippert are leading suppliers of components in recreational vehicle and residential housing industries, as well as adjacent industries including bus, cargo and equestrian trailer, marine and heavy truck. From over 65 facilities located throughout the United States, Canada, Ireland, Italy, and the United Kingdom, more than 9,000 employees work together to bring innovative product solutions to the market every day. Lippert pride themselves in developing strong and lasting relationships with customers to ensure a positive and reliable service. Lippert Marine Group Europe is the EMEA arm of the marine business, comprised of well-known brands Lewmar, Trend Marine and Taylor Made. The group was established in 2021 with almost a century’s worth of experience behind it. Product lines continue to grow, with the recent addition of divisions including Bathing Platforms and Roofing Systems. These join a set of established divisions including Hydraulics, Winches, Anchoring, Windlass, Hatch & Portlight, Windscreen, Glazing, Thrusters, Hardware & Steering.