Hatches
Do you stock replacement parts for Cule hatches?
Yes — every Cule hatch is NZ-made, and we stock all replacement parts. Many items are available online under Spare Parts and anything not listed can be supplied directly.
Can you replace the acrylic in my Cule hatch?
Yes — if your acrylic is showing signs of crazing or there is some other reason you wish to replace the acrylic we can help. For other brands we can point you toward trusted service providers who specialise in acrylic replacement. Please get in touch directly to discuss.
Can I buy replacement hatch seals online?
Not currently. We do supply replacement seals — just get in touch and we’ll organise the correct profile for your hatch.
Are Cule parts compatible with Weaver hatches?
Some are. Cule strut arms (telearms), handles, and clevis kits can be fitted to certain Weaver hatch models with simple modifications. You can view these in Spare Parts. Get in touch to discuss which model of Weaver hatch you have so we can make the best recommendations.
Do you supply replacement strut arms for Weaver hatches?
Yes. Many Weaver hatches are structurally sound but need new strut arms. Cule strut arms are a reliable replacement and can be purchased in Spare Parts.
Can you replace friction hinges on Weaver offshore hatches?
Yes, depending on the model of Weaver hatch. Get in touch to discuss further.
Do Cule parts fit other hatch brands?
No. Cule parts are only compatible with Cule and some Weaver hatches.
Which Cule hatches replace RC Marine hatches?
Can Cule hatches replace older Weaver hatches?
Yes, in some circumstances. Weaver produced several different models of hatch. If your Weaver hatch has welded hinges and a low profile, many of our Cule hatches will be a direct replacement. If your Weaver hatch has black friction hinges and a higher upstand, we will have similar sized hatches but they are not a direct replacement. We can still assist but we need to discuss first.
Do you manufacture portlights?
Not currently. We can produce small outward-opening hatches, but size limitations apply due to our machinery and dies. Our smallest rectangular hatch is CLW20 with a cut out of 347 x 202mm. Our smallest square hatch is CLW10 with a cut out of 260 x 260mm. Slightly smaller custom options may be possible — contact us to discuss.
Do Cule hatches have radius or mitred corners?
All Cule hatches have radius corners.
What is the measurement of your corner radius?
Our standard corner radius is 51mm on the cut out. Exceptions are the CLW42 and CLW75 which have a 75mm corner radius on the cut out. We can also produce a 43mm corner radius on the cut out for custom work.
Do Cule hatches use acrylic or glass?
Cule hatches use premium 8, 10 or 12mm acrylic, backed by a 10-year manufacturer warranty (and often lasting 30+ years). We do not use glass — acrylic is lighter, safer, more UV-resistant, and better suited to hatches that may be walked on or exposed to harsh sunlight.
For commercial vessels, we occasionally manufacture custom lids using 8mm anodised sheet alloy.
Are Cule hatches anodised or powder-coated?
We offer a choice of either anodised or powder-coated hatches. Anodised frames are more durable and are ideal for demanding environments and high traffic areas. Powder-coated hatches are a very high quality option at a lower price point more commonly seen on trailer boats that are not constantly immersed in saltwater.
What is the difference between anodising and powder-coating?
Anodising and powder-coating are both surface-protection finishes but where anodising becomes part of the aluminium, powder-coating sits on top of it.
Anodising is best for long-term marine exposure. It is an electrochemical process that hardens the aluminium surface itself. It doesn’t add a coating; it transforms the outer layer of the metal into a dense, corrosion-resistant oxide. This provides superior corrosion resistance, excellent durability and low maintenance. Because it doesn’t add a coating, all welds and natural aluminium imperfections can be seen.
Anodising is the finish used on most high-quality marine hardware because it stays stable even when the surface gets scratched — the oxide layer simply reforms.
Powder-coating gives a nice, smooth appearance that covers welds and natural metal imperfections but is less ideal for harsh marine exposure.
Powder-coating is a paint-like layer baked onto the surface. It provides colour and a smooth cosmetic finish, but it is still a coating sitting on top of the aluminium.
What colour hatches do you offer?
Cule hatches are available in silver or black, finished in either anodised or powder-coated aluminium. We can also supply white or chalk-coloured powder-coated hatches — colours that aren’t achievable with anodising.
Most customers pair grey hardware with silver or white hatches, and black hardware with black hatches, but the choice is entirely yours.
For the lids, you can select light or dark grey transparent acrylic, or a semi-transparent opal white acrylic.
Blinds
Are Dometic blinds suitable for marine environments?
Yes. Dometic/Oceanair blinds are specifically engineered for marine conditions, and every fabric and hardware component undergoing extensive testing before being approved for production. Their team uses specialist equipment to simulate real-world marine exposure, including:
- High-UV and heat testing to ensure fabrics won’t fade, warp, or weaken under intense sunlight.
- Salt-spray chambers that replicate long-term exposure to saltwater and coastal air, preventing corrosion of metal components.
- Humidity and moisture cycling to confirm materials won’t mould or delaminate.
- Mechanical endurance rigs that simulate up to 10 years of daily operation, ensuring springs, carriers, and tracks maintain.n smooth performance over time.
This level of testing is one of the reasons Dometic blinds are trusted on production boats, custom builds, and superyachts worldwide.
Can these blinds be custom-made for my boat?
Absolutely. Most Dometic blinds are fully customisable:
- Size / shape
- Fabric type
- Colour
- Mounting style
- Manual or powered operation
They’re commonly used in custom builds and refits. On this site we offer their retail range of blinds to purchase but they have a much greater range of custom blinds on offer.
Do Dometic blinds help with heat and light control?
Yes. Depending on the fabric chosen, blinds can provide:
- Blackout for sleeping cabins
- Dim-out for glare reduction
- Thermal insulation to reduce cabin heat
- UV protection for interior furnishings
Can I install Dometic blinds myself?
The blinds available for purchase on this site are DIY-friendly if you’re comfortable with measuring and drilling. Installation instructions are available for each model so you know what is required prior to purchase.
Any other blinds that are custom shaped, powered or rely on curved-track systems are best installed by a marine technician or boatbuilder.
Are replacement parts available?
Yes. We can source and supply many replacement parts to extend the life of the blinds. To do so we need to see photos of the blind and ideally the JobID and/or product code listed on the back of the blind.
Please be aware that there may be some subtle differences between the original OceanAir branded blinds and the more recent Dometic equivalents so it’s important to make that distinction when discussing replacement parts.
How do I clean and maintain the blinds?
- Use a soft brush or vacuum for dust
- Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap
- Avoid harsh chemicals
- For pleated blinds, avoid crushing the pleats
Routine cleaning keeps them looking new for years.
Do Dometic blinds work with curved or angled windows?
Yes. The Skysol range of pleated blinds from Dometic are perfectly suited for curved, angled, irregular shaped or inclined boat windows. This is one of the reasons they’re so popular in marine interiors.
Skysol blinds are tensioned so that they work at any angle and can be produced in 16 different shapes suitable for any window type
Are motorised blinds available?
Yes. The Skysol Motion range is ideal for larger vessels or premium fit-outs and offers:
- 12V or 24V operation
- Remote control or wall switch
- Integration with onboard systems
Dometic offers their own Atlantic and Pacific motors, and also supports Somfy and Lutron motors for integration with existing automation systems.
Where are Dometic blinds manufactured?
Dometic blinds have been manufactured in the United Kingdom since 1990. Originally under the brand OceanAir before they were acquired by Dometic in 2017.
Boat care & maintenance
What products does Cule Marine recommend for ongoing boat care?
We recommend three proven marine-grade systems:
- PropOne for foul-release protection on propellers and running gear
- JustTeak for cleaning and restoring teak surfaces
- Crystilium for long-lasting hull and topside protection
Each product is chosen for reliability, ease of use, and strong performance in NZ conditions, while reducing long-term maintenance costs. PropOne reduces drag and fouling, JustTeak extends the life of teak, and Crystilium protects surfaces from UV and environmental damage — all of which help minimise costly repairs and repaints.
How often should I maintain my boat’s exterior surfaces?
Most boats benefit from a seasonal clean and inspection, with teak care and protective coatings refreshed as needed. Propellers and running gear should be checked before and after haul-outs. PropOne typically lasts one full season, however many boaties report excellent multi-season performance depending on usage and water conditions.
Which products are suitable for DIY boat owners?
All three products: PropOne, JustTeak and Crystilium are designed with DIY boaties in mind.
PropOne and JustTeak are especially popular with hands-on owners who want professional results without the premium price tag.
What is PropOne and why should I use it?
PropOne is a foul-release coating for propellers and running gear. It keeps your props cleaner for longer, improves efficiency, and reduces time spent scrubbing.
What is JustTeak used for?
JustTeak is a two-step teak cleaning and brightening system that restores weathered teak to a natural, golden finish.
Do I need to seal the teak after using JustTeak?
Sealing is optional. Many boaties prefer the natural look, while others apply a teak sealer for added protection. JustTeak prepares the surface for either choice.
Is the JustTeak Teak Sealer a Teak oil?
No — the JustTeak Teak Sealer is not an oil. It’s a water-based, marine-grade protective coating designed to seal and stabilise teak without making it oily or slippery.
Teak oils soak into the timber and need frequent re-application, whereas the JustTeak Sealer forms a durable, breathable barrier that helps resist UV, weathering, and everyday grime. It keeps the teak looking natural while reducing maintenance over time.
What is Crystilium and why should I use it?
Crystilium is a high-performance coating designed for hulls, topsides, and other painted or gelcoat surfaces. It provides long-lasting shine and UV protection.
Is the old yellow Duralac still available for purchase?
No — the original yellow Duralac (chromate-based) is no longer manufactured or supplied. Duralac Green was introduced as the modern, chromate-free replacement.
Duralac Green delivers the same core purpose — preventing electrolytic corrosion between dissimilar metals — but uses updated chemistry that is safer to handle, environmentally responsible, and compliant with current regulations.
If you previously used the yellow Duralac, Duralac Green is the correct and only available product for all new applications.
Does Vibra-Stop pad actually reduce noise, or just vibration?
Alloy boats are naturally rigid, which makes the entire hull act like a sounding board. Vibration from an outboard can be heard and felt throughout the boat — from the transom all the way to the bow. Vibra-Stop pads isolate this vibration at the mounting points, preventing it from resonating through the hull and dramatically reducing noise and drumming.
What does the Vibra-Stop Kit include?
The complete Vibra-Stop kit includes everything required to fully isolate the engine and mounting hardware from the hull, ensuring maximum vibration reduction and long-term protection:
- A pair of 15mm thick backing pads installed between the engine and transom to absorb vibration at the engine face.
- Four aluminium sleeves welded (alloy boats) or epoxy-bonded (fibreglass boats) into transom holes to isolate the bolt shafts.
- Four bushes fitted inside the sleeves to prevent metal-to-metal contact and stop vibration travelling through the bolts.
- Four large stainless steel cup washers which spread load evenly and maintain correct spacing between the transom and engine while allowing controlled compression of the pads.
- One braided stainless steel bonding strap + matching bolt which provides a dedicated electrical connection between the engine and hull. This is essential because once the engine and bolts are isolated, the natural metal-to-metal electrical path is removed. The bonding strap prevents galvanic corrosion, ensures the anodes work correctly, and keeps the hull and engine at the same electrical potential.
Do I need to buy the full Vibra-Stop kit, or can I use individual pads?
Individual pads can be used for replacements or low-vibration setups — but for many larger, high powered alloy boats, the full Vibra-Stop kit is strongly recommended.
Here’s why:
- The pad alone isolates the engine face but the mounting bolts remain a rigid connection unless the bush kit is installed. This provides maximum shock absorption.
- On high-horsepower engines, heavy-load boats, or vessels driven hard in big seas, this rigid connection can lead to lower bolt bending, fatigue, or breakages
- The full kit isolates all four mounting points, ensuring balanced vibration control and protecting the hardware
What happens if I only install the backing pads and not the full kit?
You’ll reduce some vibration, but the bolts will still act as a direct metal link between the engine and hull. On hard-driven boats, this can cause:
- uneven load transfer
- increased vibration at the upper mounts
- accelerated fatigue at the lower bolts
- reduced effectiveness of the system
The full kit prevents this by isolating both the engine face and the bolt shafts.
Will Vibra-Stop pads compress over time?
No. The Vibra-Stop pads are manufactured from a compound that will not compress over time, even under heavy load. This ensures a consistent clamping force, stable engine alignment and long service life.
The pads are UV-resistant, impervious to water and solvents and resistant to swelling or softening.
General questions
Where do you ship to?
We ship throughout New Zealand, including rural addresses. Please note that we cannot ship to PO Boxes — a physical delivery address is required.
We also ship internationally. Because overseas freight varies widely by weight, size, and destination, we calculate the best shipping option using a range of international carriers. International shipping quotes are provided on request.
How long does shipping take?
Standard delivery within NZ is usually 1–3 working days, depending on your location. Rural delivery and dangerous goods may take a little longer.
How much does shipping cost?
Shipping is calculated at checkout based on the size, weight, and destination of your order. Some items may require specialised freight due to size or value — we’ll always notify you before dispatch if additional charges apply.
Do you offer click & collect?
Yes — if you prefer to collect your order, please contact us to arrange a pickup time. We’ll confirm when your order is ready.
How will I know when my order has shipped?
You’ll receive a shipping confirmation email with tracking details as soon as your order leaves our warehouse. You can follow your parcel’s progress online.
What if my order hasn’t arrived?
If your order is delayed or hasn’t arrived within the expected timeframe, contact us and we’ll follow up with the courier or freight provider immediately.
Do you accept returns?
Yes — we accept returns on unused, unopened items within 14 days of delivery. Items must be in original condition and packaging. Custom-made or special-order items may not be eligible for return.
How do I request a return?
Simply contact us with your order number and reason for return. We’ll provide instructions and a return address. Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer unless the item is faulty.
Can I change or cancel my order?
If your order hasn’t shipped yet, we can usually make changes or cancel it. Contact us as soon as possible and we’ll do our best to help.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit/debit cards, bank transfer, and other secure payment options available at checkout.
Can I get advice before purchasing?
Absolutely. We’re happy to help with product selection, technical questions, and recommendations. Just reach out — we’re here to help.