There is a distinct smell to a boat in winter. It’s the smell of mildew and damp cushions.
If you boat in the Pacific Northwest or the Northeast, you know that keeping the cabin warm is easy; keeping the cabin dry is the hard part. This is where Dickinson Marine has built its legend. Unlike generic electric heaters that just push hot air around, Dickinson bulkhead heaters are designed to vent moisture out of the boat.
But which fuel source is right for your vessel? Here is the breakdown of the legendary Newport Series.
1. The Classic: Newport Solid Fuel Heater
This is the stainless steel box you see on classic cutters and trawlers. It burns wood, charcoal, or briquettes.
- The "Dry Heat" Advantage: Solid fuel creates a strong draft. It sucks damp air from the floor of your cabin, burns it, and sends the moisture out the chimney. The result is a bone-dry cabin, even in a rainstorm.
- The Vibe: Nothing beats the flicker of a real fire through the glass window.
- Best For: Liveaboards, traditionalists, and boaters with access to dry wood/briquettes.
Shop the Dickinson Newport Solid Fuel Heater
2. The Convenient: Newport P9000 & P12000 (Propane)
Love the look of the Newport but hate chopping kindling? The Propane version is your answer.
- Instant Heat: Turn a knob, push the igniter, and you have warmth. No ash to clean up.
- Vented Safety: Unlike portable "buddy" heaters (which dump condensation and CO2 into your cabin), the Dickinson Propane units are fully vented externally.
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Sizing:
- P9000: For boats 28-32 feet.
- P12000: For boats 32-40+ feet.
Shop Dickinson Propane Bulkhead Heaters
3. Critical Install: The Stove Pipe
You cannot install a Dickinson heater without the chimney. This is where most installations fail.
The "draft" (airflow) depends on the pipe length. Dickinson recommends a minimum of 4 feet of pipe for a proper draft. You will need:
- Stainless Stove Pipe: Available in 3-inch (for Solid Fuel/Diesel) or 2.5-inch (certain Gas models—check your manual!).
- Deck Fitting: To pass through the cabin top safely.
- The Cap: To keep rain out and prevent back-drafts in high winds.
Shop Stainless Boat Stove Pipe & Deck Caps
4. The Galley Essential: Sea-B-Que
While we are talking about Dickinson stainless steel, we have to mention the Sea-B-Que. It is widely considered the only marine grill that doesn't rust out after two seasons.
Available in "Small" (ideal for 2 people/stern rails) and "Large" (for the family feast). It connects directly to your boat's propane system or a disposable canister.
View the Sea-B-Que Specs (PDF) or Shop Marine BBQs
Not sure if you have the wall space? Check the dimensions on our Dickinson Brand Page before you drill.
