- Joined
- Apr 15, 2008
- Messages
- 13,731
- Location
- California Delta
- Vessel Name
- FlyWright
- Vessel Make
- 1977 Marshall Californian 34 LRC
In my case, my preference has changed over time. When the boat was new to me, the FB was the place to be. Warm weather or cold, I liked the view and preferred the docking perspective. That's where my boating instructor preferred and that's where I learned.
Over time, I operated more and more from the lower helm, especially throughout the winter cold and fog. Besides, that's where my radar, autopilot and my best (largest) chartplotter are located. After a bit, it became my preferred helm due to its proximity to all the comforts of home and the ability to monitor and hear the engines.
Now, like the PO, I operate from the lower helm 80% of the time. In the summer, we still enjoy the FB for the leisurely cruise, but I have to admit that I feel a bit removed from the sound and feel of the engines. Maybe it's the pilot in me, but I like to listen to every sound.
I like having the FB and would probably miss it if I didn't have it, but it would be a "like-to-have" not a "must-have' in my next boat. Having the extra real estate for storage (cleaning supplies, grill, propane, extra cooler, folding chairs) is also a big plus. I should add that our lower helm provides uninhibited 360 degree visibility which helps make operating from the lower helm very comfortable.
"I don't like heights and prefer not to climb ladders or worry about being thrown out from an overlooked wake or errant wave." -Mark Pierce-
It was pretty rough up there on that day! We didn't stay long. ;-)
Over time, I operated more and more from the lower helm, especially throughout the winter cold and fog. Besides, that's where my radar, autopilot and my best (largest) chartplotter are located. After a bit, it became my preferred helm due to its proximity to all the comforts of home and the ability to monitor and hear the engines.
Now, like the PO, I operate from the lower helm 80% of the time. In the summer, we still enjoy the FB for the leisurely cruise, but I have to admit that I feel a bit removed from the sound and feel of the engines. Maybe it's the pilot in me, but I like to listen to every sound.
I like having the FB and would probably miss it if I didn't have it, but it would be a "like-to-have" not a "must-have' in my next boat. Having the extra real estate for storage (cleaning supplies, grill, propane, extra cooler, folding chairs) is also a big plus. I should add that our lower helm provides uninhibited 360 degree visibility which helps make operating from the lower helm very comfortable.
"I don't like heights and prefer not to climb ladders or worry about being thrown out from an overlooked wake or errant wave." -Mark Pierce-
It was pretty rough up there on that day! We didn't stay long. ;-)
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