Flybridge or not, is a matter of style and use. Here are some pros and cons:
Pros:
1. Better visability and the wind in your face feel.
2. Another space; great for parties
3. On bigger boats, a davit can pick up and store your dinghy on the boat deck
Cons:
1. Cost, but not much
2. Exposed to the weather, but a bimini and side curtains will help
3. Weight and windage
4. Motion underway is accentuated up high
We had a Mainship trawler with a flybridge that we used on the west coast, mostly for trips to Catalina. There was a lower helm station, but no helm seat. I rarely used the lower helm.
When we moved to NC we bought a downeaster style with no flybridge. The only downside is noise below and I do miss the better visibility of the flybridge.
David
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