Hi Fred, Like Csick nick I tired of pedestal seats so I'm currently making some boxes out of baltic birch made with exterior glue, and my joints are done with epoxy and screws. I've oversized them just a bit in case I decide to use them as molds for glass boxes. If you plan on going the glass route, use MDF for your molds. It's easy to work and far less expensive than ply.
I borrowed the idea from an old Formula 233 that I almost bought. Under port helm I wanted space for a cooler that would hold a few 35" fish on ice, and refreshments. Behind the seat I wanted 2 or 3 rod holders, and somewhere in between, a couple of tackle drawers or trays to hold jigs, pliers or whatever at the ready. Under the helm I want to carry a couple of 6 gallon auxiliary tanks for those less well-planned runs where you start chasing temp breaks or fish, as well as the additional rod storage. Here's a concept pic from the said boat, as mine is not ready to show.
Also check out the mold process strick used in making several thing in his Here we go again thread, The good doctor was kind enough to document much of his undertaking on the resulting fantastic restoration. Billythedkid also has a recent thread with fantastic documentation of his glass fabrication. I know there are some other great threads in the archives but those are a good place to start. Try page 13 or 14 of Stricks for starters. Good luck.
Keep in mind these boxes are on a large 23' as opposed to a small 20' like the Seafari. Their layouts however are very similar. Also, when I mount mine I will be using 1" stainless angle from the inside. Good Luck
