Steve, I spoke to Marty last night. He doesnt use any latches on the hatches he doesnt like using them he said that the hatches fit snuggly and have no issues when under power. When towing he runs his bow line to his stern cleat, cleat it off taught then uses a cargo stap over the boat between the main hatch and the forward hatch to keep everything in place while going down the highway. I hope that helps.