J/30 Class Association Forums J/30 Forum The Boat, Sails and Equipment Dewatering Aft Bilge - Need Advice

I've read much of the history in this newsgroup on the inability of the aft section of the bilge (behind the vermiculite) to drain. I know Rhapsody has some serious moisture (standing water?) there but can't readily get to it. I saw one post that indicated their boat has a 3" inspection port cut just in front of the engine with a screw plate to gain access. I'm thinking I could cut a hole there, install a screw plate and then put a temporary bilge pump hose to pump it dry. I may be able to get a rag down there on a flexible bilge picker to really dry it out. Any experience from those out there who may have dealt with this issue?

I'm looking for something like - "don't do it, it's a waste of time.... or - yeah, I did that and it worked great!"

Thanks,
Bill
Rhapsody - #348