The Amel Maramu has a balsa core deck. This means that a lightweight vertical strand wooden material is sandwiched between two layers of fibreglass. In the case of the Maramu, the balsa is 3/4 in thick. This provides great strength at a light weight. Until water gets into it. Once wet, it turns to sponge.
This is bad anywhere, but becomes critical when it is under the windlass, which pulls the chain and anchor up. Hence, one of the highest load-bearing areas on the boat.
The Problem
The Solution
