Let's talk about pulpits and nautical fittings , fundamental elements for the safety and structure of the deck of any sailing or motor boat.
🧱 NAUTICAL PULPITS
The pulpits are stainless steel structures installed at the bow and stern , which act as:
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Safety barriers to prevent falling into the sea
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Lifeline support
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Structure for navigation lights , anchors, fenders, or rod holders
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At the stern, they can integrate steps, handrails, showers or life jacket holders
✅ Types:
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Bow pulpit : generally curved, it wraps around the anchor roller
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Stern pulpit : often double, with openings for access to the sea
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Custom or modular pulpit : for custom boats, refits or upgrades
📐 Technical features:
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Material: polished AISI 316 stainless steel
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Standard tube: diameter 25 or 30 mm
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Average height: 60–70 cm
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Fixing on deck with plates and through bolts , always with internal counter-plate
🔩 FITTINGS FOR PULPITS AND TUBES
Fittings are the components that join steel or aluminum pipes to form:
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Load-bearing structures : pulpits, roll bars, handrails, awnings
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Modular frames for solar panels, dashboards, roofing
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They also allow partial replacements in case of breakage or refitting
✅ Main types:
🛠️ Materials:
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AISI 316 stainless steel → superior strength and shiny appearance
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Chromed brass → less common, more decorative
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Reinforced technical plastic → on light boats or awnings
💡 Practical installation tips
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Always use internal reinforcing plates for pulpits → they prevent damage from bending or tearing
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Apply marine sealant (e.g. Sika or similar) under the bases to prevent infiltration
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For swivel fittings, check compatibility with the diameter of the pipes (usually 22, 25 or 30 mm)
⚓ Compatible accessories
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Stainless steel or textile lifelines (safety cables)
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Turnbuckles and shackles for tensioning lifelines
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Fender holders, rod holders, life jacket holders to be fixed on the pulpit
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Headlights, navigation lights, antennas mounted directly on the pulpit
