Scupper Drains
Boat scuppers facilitate the drainage of water from a boat's deck. They are typically located along the edges or corners of the deck, where they help to maintain a dry and safe environment on board.
Scupper Shapes and Sizes
Scuppers can be round or rectangular to accommodate different boat designs and drainage requirements. The choice of scupper size depends on factors such as the mounting location and the volume of water it needs to drain. Common variations include floor scuppers, which are flush with the deck, and other designs that incorporate a ball valve or flap that allow water to exit out and not backflow in.
Scupper Materials
West Marine offers scupper drains in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, bronze, nylon and high-impact plastic.
Types of Scuppers
Direct Overboard Drainage: In this setup, scuppers enable water to drain directly over the side of the boat. Examples include openings in the toe rail of a sailboat, or in the gunwale that surrounds a boat’s cockpit.
Plumbed to an Above-the-Waterline Thru-Hull Fitting: Cockpit drains are often plumbed to a hose that leads to an above-the-waterline thru-hull fitting installed in the transom or side of the boat.
Recommended Scupper Size
The size of scupper drains varies based on the specific boat requirements. The ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) recommends that scupper drains be large enough to drain the water out of the area they serve in less than 90 seconds. So, for example, if you have a sailboat that takes a wave over the stern that fills your cockpit with water, that water must drain out of your cockpit in 90 seconds or less.
Keep Your Scuppers Free of Debris!
For boats berthed in marinas surrounded by trees, one common issue is the potential for leaves and debris to block scupper drains. In locations subject to heavy rain, more than one boat has been sunk at the dock because a blocked scupper drain caused their cockpit to fill with water that overflowed the companionway, filling the boat. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure scuppers remain clear and functional, preventing water-related complications on board.
Brands of Scuppers
West Marine offers many different brands of scupper drains. Examples include Marine East, Perko and T-H Marine.