Centre Cockpit Cruisers

[V1701]

Gets the crew nearer to the boat's motion centre. Gives scope for a proper aft cabin. Feels more secure at sea. Easier to single-hand. Puts the mainsheet in a sensible place.

There's one forumite who's posted a couple of time about how he really doesn't get on with his 346, especially trying to singlehand it. Horses for courses, every boat's a compromise, etc, etc.....

 

[Rivers & creeks]

Gets the crew nearer to the boat's motion centre. Gives scope for a proper aft cabin. Feels more secure at sea. Easier to single-hand. Puts the mainsheet in a sensible place.

All of that with the social aspect that the helm is much more a part of the boat rather than being stuck at the back end behind a wheel. Downside is that the helm is of no use with fenders and lines, not like being able to helm whilst dropping a line over a cleat like you can on an aft cockpit. But for young families they are more comfortable, sociable and safer.

 

[Tranona]

With that budget if you are prepared to do without the walkthrough a good Conway can be had. Up the budget and you can get a later Corsair or a Moody 37.

 

[laika]

Downside is that the helm is of no use with fenders and lines, not like being able to helm whilst dropping a line over a cleat like you can on an aft cockpit.

For that reason, much as I love my oceanlord, I'd question pvb's statement about being easier to single hand. I can't even see the pontoon cleats from the helm, much less get anywhere near being able to drop a line over (even with the aid of a boathook) without jumping onto the side deck out of reach of the throttle. Parking in a marina with unfavourable conditions (as they always are) is something I'd avoid on my own. This is the biggest downside for me.

Another consideration might be boom height vs. helmsperson height. With the boom cranked into the centreline it's touching my head if I'm standing fully upright, although this is (hopefully) being addressed by the cut of the new sails I have on order (and which may finally allow me to install a bimini).

Not having to watch for anyone in front of the helm putting their hand on the main traveller is a big plus

 

[yachtorion]

Thanks to everyone for their contributions - more food for thought.