In the nautical context, boat hinges and latches are fundamental components of marine hardware used to secure, articulate, or close movable elements on board, such as doors, hatches, lockers, portholes, cabins, and other compartments.

🔩 Boat hinges

Nautical hinges are designed to withstand marine conditions (salt, humidity, vibrations) and can be:

1. In AISI 316 or 304 stainless steel : high resistance to corrosion.
2. In chromed brass or reinforced plastic (for light use).

Common types

• Book hinges : the most common, for doors or hatches.
• Concealed hinges : for a clean aesthetic.
• Hinged or spring hinges : for automatic or assisted openings.
• Watertight hinges : for hatches that require water tightness.

🔒 Boat latches

They are used to lock doors, hatches or lockers , preventing accidental openings due to the movement of the sea.

Materials

1. stainless steel
2. brass
3. technical nylon

Common types

• Lever or snap : for quick openings.
• Safety lock bolts : to prevent accidental opening.
• Recessed or flush : for smooth surfaces without protrusions.
• Porthole or hatch latches : often with an airtight seal.

Important features

• Marine corrosion resistance (essential!)
• Mechanical robustness
• Anti-intrusion design (in case of storage)
• Easy assembly or compatibility with boat panel thicknesses