My friend mentioned a breather hole, but I can't see anything. Have they always made them like that or is it a recent thing? Mine is approx 2004 (I think).
It's just a hole. Approx 1/8" in dia
As far as the water in the cockpit, that's why I mentioned it's a smart move to remove the cockput bung... (and try and level off the boat, and use a deck cover etc, etc.. )
Its habit for me. I always unscrew my hull plug slightly.
They've always made them like that. It's a tiny hole, front of cockpit, under the hiking strap. If you can't see anything, check other people's boats so you can see what we're talking about, then get out your drill and make one. It is necessary.
Here is a photo
If you open the bailer but store it uncovered with the tongue down, the cockpit will STILL fill with enough water to submerge the breather hole.
My boat doesn't have a sticker. Just the itty bitty hole.