I'll try that but will not be back on the boat for a couple of weeks.
On my boat the filler fitting has 2 connections, one for the filler pipe and one for the vent pipe. The vent pipe one just seems to vent via slots into the top of the filler pipe section. As you say, when the cap is closed tightly, if there was to be an opening to let air in then salt water could get in also.
I am wondering if there is an other vent pipe from some other part of the tank (or the piping) that I can't see?
On my last boat (a Jeanneau) you could fill until water came out the filler fitting. On this boat I am finding fresh water in the bilges which seem to co-onside with trying to fully fill the tanks. I know from other threads that there are many reasons why fresh water could leak. However, I would like to satisfy my curiosity as to how the tanks are vented.
I haven?t looked at the aft tank yet but that must be plumbed similarly.
I will also re-check the inspection lids , but each has a seal and I am fairly sure that they are OK
Jodel