Flybridge configurations

JeffN

JeffN

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HI all, never having owned a flybridge boat, what is the purpose of having seating in front of the wheel 'binnacle' and not having the helm at the front of the bridge? Seems odd to look though people's heads when underway. The only reason I can imagine is to be positioned where the shipper can see fore and aft as well.
 
Wouldn't be the 1st time. Still, people in front could be a distraction, bikini-ed ones particularly.
 
JeffN said:
Wouldn't be the 1st time. Still, people in front could be a distraction, bikini-ed ones particularly.
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You are correct, had to face that challenge many times. But, a good cap'n maintains a vigil lookout in all directions. ;)
 
I think that initially moving the helm aft was a sportfish thing so the captain could see what s happening in the cockpit. On non fishing boats if gives passengers a better view and doesn’t really interfere with visibility for the skipper
 
As Pascal mentioned that is considered the sportfish configuration so that while fishing you can clearly see the cockpit. While offshore fishing for bigger fish like tuna you need to be able to see what's going on while reeling fish in to maneuver the boat appropriately so you don't run over the lines, etc. Even for inshore it helps to be able to have a clear view and communicate with the guys in the cockpit. It also makes it a lot easier to dock because you can clearly see both aft corners of the boat when pulling into a slip. The forward bench seats are always lower than the helm seat so people in front aren't really in your way while running the boat. To me it's much better than the forward helm seat.
 
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On our Carver, the back cushion of the seat forward of the helm easily lifted off and exposed the backside of most of the gauges and electronics making certain repairs possible without having to pull the dash apart from the helm side. Over the years I replaced engine synchronizer, oil pressure, and temp gauges using that access. The seat cushion is hinged and raises to expose good, easy access to PFD storage, or anything else you might want to stash there.
 
Greg S. do you have seats in front of your helm? One of the most important features to me when buying my Silverton was no seating forward of the helm. That ruled out the Carver aft cabins for me.
 
that forward helm seating is a good space for cocktail cruising - having two seats on the bridge with 6 friends on the cockpit isolates the party and conversations, a coupla honeys to look at is nice too.....
 
My preference is the express

everyone in the same place

easy to single handle - no barking orders

the only real downside is - way less cabin/a/c space

RWS
 
Yes, but I have one bridge to clear to get home and you have a competent crew to assist with tie up duties.

I rarely ask for crew assistance

RWS
 
P.E., No, my 34C has the helm forward with seating to port and aft on the bridge.
RWS, I handle my fly bridge boat by myself quite often, not a problem.
 
I have often wondered at how this is done

Up and down that ladder might be difficult as we age

Seriously, I would like to learn more about how this is easily done

RWS
 
Not much you can do about the bridge. Having engine controls in the cockpit or a lower helm with side doors allow for easy single handling. Indeed having to run down from the FB to the lines is an issue
 
The driver seat on my last Carver was elevated. Never had an issue seeing over passengers sitting in front of me. The seat being on the back of the flybridge presented a great sight line while backing into a slip.
Jim
 
Not all flybridge boats are configured that way. Mine has three seats side by side and the center seat is the helm seat.

Now if seeing over a passenger's head is a problem on your boat, you might be able to raise the helm seat. Pedestals are available in different lengths and there are also adjustable pedestals on the market.
 
I've single-handed my old 36' FB, and have the busted shins to prove it. ;)

Up n down the ladder was no fun at all..
 
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RWS said:
My preference is the express

everyone in the same place

easy to single handle - no barking orders

the only real downside is - way less cabin/a/c space

RWS
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Love my Trojan 440 Express. We have plenty of cabin space.
 
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