pilothouse sailboat pros and cons

• MarketPlace
• Digital Archives
• Order A Copy

Benefits of a pilothouse boat

Thanks to an early introduction to the books of Eric Hiscock, the primary item on my bucket list has always been circumnavigating in my own boat at least once. As retirement approached, I started shopping for the right boat for that adventure.

There were quite a few production designs on the market that met my requirements: attached rudder, long enough keel for good tracking, and enough displacement that a few cases of beer would not slow it down. As my shopping progressed, I eventually found myself gravitating toward pilothouse boats. The idea of having a comfy, dry place to stand long watches was very appealing.

There were not many choices in the 40-foot range, and I quickly landed on the Bob Perry-designed Tayana 37. Most Tayana 37s were built with conventional cockpits but about 10 percent had pilothouses, and the pilothouse did not look like a poorly thought-out add-on.

Layout I am amazed at how many experienced sailors who come aboard my Tayana 37, Active Transport , are surprised at the way in which the pilothouse is incorporated into the deck and cabin.

If you look at the boat from the dock, the pilothouse looks sort of like a massive hard dodger. It’s not obvious that the sole of the pilothouse is about 20 inches lower than the cockpit sole.

There are two steps down into the pilothouse and two more steps covering the 20 additional inches down to the main cabin sole. This arrangement is much more convenient than a ladder, which would typically be made very steep to minimize the room it takes up in the cabin.

The pilothouse on my boat has a navigation station to port and a second steering station to starboard. The height of the pilothouse above the main cabin top is much less than most of the dodgers I see on boats with the full-size aft cockpit.

Pilothouse benefits Comfort: The primary feature I was after when I chose a pilothouse boat was comfort. It turns out there were a lot of additional benefits, but comfort was what I was focused on, and the pilothouse configuration delivered plenty of comfort. The seats in the pilothouse provide a warm, dry place to stand watch either day or night.

The pilothouse also added a lot of comfort during the brief summer we spent in Prince William Sound in Alaska. Even in the summer it’s chilly up there, especially at night. The pilothouse provided a great way to visually check on the boat’s position at anchor and provided a nice comfy “blind” for watching wildlife, especially at dawn. Moving around the sound was also more comfortable inside when the spray started flying.

Reduced sun exposure: Being Irish, I’m part of a highly evolved subset of humanity. After thousands of years of selective pressure, we have ended up being very well adapted for living in pubs. That adaptation does not leave us well suited for life in the tropical sunshine.

A pilothouse boat allows you to stand watch out of direct sunlight most of the time. You still need plenty of sunscreen.

No wet foul weather gear: Foul weather gear has always been a problem on my boats. Once foulies are wet and salty, storing them is a big problem. Salty foulies never really dry and tend to get other things in the cabin salty, and then those things never dry.

Damp foulies are very unpleasant to put on when it’s your turn to stand watch in the cockpit. A pilothouse boat let us sail around the world with our foulies stowed in a locker under a bunk. The only exceptions were when we sailed around Tasmania and on our passage from Kauai to Kodiak Island in Alaska. For six years, our foulies never saw the light of day.

If the spray was flying or if it was raining, we would just go on deck in a swimsuit to tend to sail trim or other details like the wind vane. If we got salty, a quick rinse with the cockpit shower fixed that problem, and a nice fluffy bath towel can dry a person a lot better than any method I have ever found for drying foulies.

Nav station with a view: The navigation station is one of the best features of the pilothouse layout as implemented on the Tayana 37. The traditional nav desk provides a safe, dry location for the laptop that handled all navigation and digital communications (SSB and Iridium phone). I installed an external monitor and keyboard so the laptop was never likely to be exposed to a rogue wave that might come in through the main hatch. I also had an identical (preconfigured) laptop stored in a Pelican case as a backup.

The navigation station is the perfect place to stand watch. The person on watch is out of the weather but with good visibility all around. They also have access to all of the navigation instruments and radios. The sailing instruments are repeated on a display in the pilothouse, and the electronic charts — complete with AIS data — are displayed on a monitor. The radar is also at the nav station and is mounted so that it can be flipped around and made visible from the cockpit.

Almost all of the electronic gear on the boat is inside the pilothouse, with the exception being the sailing instruments mounted in a NavPod on the cockpit steering pedestal. If I had it to do again, I would have put those instruments inside the pilothouse with the repeater in the cockpit. The only electronic failures I experienced were corroded switches in the cockpit instruments.

The benefits of having all of the navigation data available at a location where the helmsman also has good visibility around the horizon can’t be overemphasized.

I remember navigating through shifting channels behind Fraser Island in Queensland, Australia, where I had the charts on the monitor but could also see the channel markers that had been moved recently because of shifting sand.

The simultaneous view of the horizon and the electronic chart is incredibly helpful when trying to get a visual on AIS targets that show up on the chart.

Second steering station: Active Transport came with two steering stations. In the cockpit is a traditional Whitlock pedestal steering station that uses cables to connect the wheel with the quadrant. In the pilothouse is a Vetus hydraulic steering system that is connected to a massive hydraulic ram attached to a stainless-steel fixture bolted to the top of the quadrant.

This arrangement gave us two redundant steering systems. If a cable broke, the hydraulic steering would still work fine, which would allow us to put off the cable repair until conditions were suitable. Obviously this arrangement did not provide total redundancy, as any failure of the quadrant would have left both steering systems non-functional.

The internal steering station has not turned out to be as useful as I had originally anticipated. One reason for this is that I am basically of the opinion that steering by hand is fun for beginners, but when I’m sailing the boat I don’t want the distraction of steering and will almost always use the wind vane or autopilot except in high-traffic areas.

I had anticipated that the inside steering station would be very handy when docking since the visibility from the inside steering station was so good. The problem is that because of the small diameter of the wheel on the inside station, a lot of turns are required to move the rudder enough to execute a 90-degree turn when docking. So, I use the cockpit steering when docking.

One of the biggest advantages of the inside hydraulic steering is, oddly enough, the direct result of the biggest objection most sailors have to hydraulic steering: the lack of rudder feedback. You can’t feel the rudder and, unlike cable steering or a tiller, the rudder is held firmly in place when you take your hands off the wheel.

When sailing upwind, I can use the hydraulic steering to tweak the rudder angle until I find the sweet spot where the boat will sail itself. The rudder is held securely in place when the wheel is released. Active Transport can steer itself for hours upwind if the wind conditions are consistent, the rig is reasonably balanced and the appropriate rudder angle is locked in by the hydraulic steering.

The inside steering station also has a second engine control, which is valuable for redundancy.

Mobility: A lot of the boats I have sailed on had steep ladders from the cockpit to the cabin sole in the main cabin. Often those ladders were steep enough that it was necessary to back down the ladder when going below.

On Active Transport , the two sets of steps (from the cockpit and into the main cabin) allow easy access up and down. Plus, the steps on this pilothouse boat are much wider than on typical ladders. Footing is much more secure.

Engine access: When the floorboards of the pilothouse are removed, there is excellent access to the top of the engine and it is very easy to pull the engine up through the main hatch when that unpleasant task is necessary.

A few negatives All boats are full of design compromises, and adding a pilothouse brings a few disadvantages. For me, the pros outweigh the cons.

Weight: The added weight of the pilothouse might be an issue for go-fast sailors, although we never found it to be responsible for any poor performance we could identify. To know if the weight is really an issue, it would be necessary to sail a lot of miles under a lot of different conditions on the same model of boat without a pilothouse. Certainly, the pilothouse weighs a lot more than a dodger.

Loss of space: When you have a pilothouse, you lose space in both the main cabin and the cockpit. To find space for the pilothouse, about 5 feet of combined cabin and/or cockpit space is sacrificed.

The loss of space in the main cabin is not as much as you might expect, since moving the navigation station to the pilothouse means you don’t have a navigation station in the main cabin. You also don’t have the engine cover taking up space in the main cabin.

The impact on the cockpit is a little bit more of a problem. On the pilothouse model, the cockpit is shorter than on the non-pilothouse version of the Tayana 37. This means someone as tall as I am (6 feet) can’t sleep comfortably in the cockpit.

There is also not enough room for a conventional (off-the-shelf) cockpit table that is usually attached to the pedestal.

Rigging compromises: Most of the rigging on my pilothouse boat is identical to that on the more common large-cockpit version. The dimensions of all the sails and spars are identical. The winches are well positioned in the shorter cockpit, and there is no problem finding fair leads for all the sheets.

The secondary winches are so close to the rail around the cockpit that there is not enough room for a full-sized winch handle, so an 8-inch handle is used on those winches. This is a problem unique to the pilothouse version of the boat, which is exacerbated by the fact that I had a stainless-steel rail built to go completely around the back of the boat aft of the lifeline gates.

The need to use shorter winch handles can be a problem when reefing a headsail in a blow. In those cases, I just lead the line from the secondary to the primary that is right in front of it, or across the cockpit to the lazy primary to get enough mechanical advantage to tame a flogging headsail.

The traveler on my boat is on top of the pilothouse, which I consider an advantage, as injuries are much less likely than with a traveler at deck level. But pulling the traveler adjustment lines up and out of the cam cleats is hard for shorter sailors with the traveler in this location.

The biggest disadvantage of the pilothouse, from a rigging perspective, is that there is no good way to lead halyards and reefing lines to the cockpit. I would have liked that ability but could never figure out a way to do it that would not have resulted in a nest of lines too high off the deck for safety. I ended up just biting the bullet and reefing at the mast. I put a big winch under the boom so I could reef quickly and easily, but I still had to go forward to reef the main.

Sail-handling compromises: Both headsails are installed on furlers so controlling, reefing and stowing those sails is exactly the same as it is on most sailboats.

There are both pros and cons associated with securing the doused main to the boom on my pilothouse boat. On one hand is the fact that I have to get on top of the pilothouse to secure the aft end of the main to the boom. If the seas are big, that additional height does not always make for a pleasant and stable work area. On the other hand, when on top of the pilothouse, I’m above the boom and not reaching up to it while trying to secure the sail. It’s easier to pull the sail up onto the boom and pull the full battens straight along the boom from above.

This problem is easily solved with lazy jacks and some sort of StackPack type of sail cover. I’m working on that now, but that change is more of a concession to my age than an essential modification.

Safety concern of big windows: The pilothouse has big windows, and that goes against the conventional wisdom that says it’s not a good idea to have large, vulnerable hatches and ports on a seagoing boat.

The glass in the windows on my boat seemed thick enough, so I did not worry too much about it. I did take the trouble to figure out which plywood locker covers from the cabin would be useful to close any broken pilothouse window openings, and I had a supply of self-tapping, hex-head screws handy in case I had to make such an emergency repair.

Big windows can let in heat in the tropics: This is true, but there are workarounds. I had a set of mesh covers made for the windows, and those do an incredible job of cutting down on the amount of sunlight that gets in the boat through the pilothouse windows while still allowing visibility to the outside.

When underway, those covers are removed because they do impact visibility — especially when there is a lot of spray flying and the little holes in the mesh get water drops in them. I also had two small hatches installed in the pilothouse roof when the boat was built so that the breeze could be directed into the pilothouse if there was no spray flying.

Sunlight through the pilothouse windows was never a big enough problem that I considered getting a deck awning for use at anchor.

My boat was purchased with a specific goal of circumnavigating in mind. I wanted the comfort and security provided by a pilothouse for long ocean passages with two people on board. The pilothouse boat turned out to be the right choice for my purposes, and I’m a little bit surprised that I did not see more of them in the anchorages all over the world.

Many of the pilothouse boats I did see were not really suitable for crossing oceans. They frequently had large and very tall pilothouses at deck level with sliding doors on the side rather than the compact design of the pilothouse on Active Transport that is snuggled down into the boat.

John Lewis, retired from the scientific instruments business, competed in the 1994 single-handed Transpac on his Nor’Sea 27 and later completed a six-year circumnavigation on board his Tayana 37, Active Transport .

By Ocean Navigator

• Our community
• Search the forums
• Other communities
• Community #1
• Community #2
• Community #3
• Community #4
• RV Safe GPS
• RVTrip Wizard
• Maintain My RV
• Campground Reviews
• Account Issues?
• Advertise with us

• Search forums

Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.

Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.

• Trawler Forum
• General Discussion

To have or not to have a pilothouse?

• Thread starter Julsburd
• Start date May 14, 2019
• May 14, 2019

Veteran Member

In shopping for our boat we have put a pilot house at the top of our priority list but we have never had one or used one so my question is, what do you consider to be the advantages and disadvantages of a pilot house vs. a helm station off the salon. We are looking at 45' boats and we also like having a flybridge for outside piloting. Is is nice to have that separate "room" in the boat? do you find it moves a lot with wave action? Any opinions would be great.  

I think the pilot house is a lonely place... We have 3 stations- flybridge, salon, and starboard stern. I drive from the flybridge 95% of the time. A PH with a day bunk and double doors would be nice...  

• May 15, 2019

Just one person’s opinion We are currently transitioning from a helm off the salon (Cutwater 30 cb) to a larger boat with a separate pilot house - Symbol 45 pilothouse. Both the Symbol and the Cutwater also have Fly Bridges. We did not make extensive use of the Fly Bridge while cruising the Cutwater for two years here in the Pacific NW and probably won’t use the one on the Symbol much more. Our first cruise on the new to us Symbol was from Baltimore to Fort Lauderdale where we loaded it on a transport ship that just passed thru the Panama Canal on the way to Victoria BC where we’ll reclaim it. The almost 2 week trip down the Intracoastal waterway started out in cold windy weather then transitioned to hot humid conditions that wusses like us aren’t comfortable in. So we spent most of our time inside enjoying the air conditioning (a new experience for us). The pilothouse gave us just what we wanted - more room and a chance to have separate spaces when we wanted them. There are many other pros and cons to the two experiences that everyone probably would experience differently, but so far it seems like a good move to us. This summer we’ll get even more important feedback when we introduce our two big standard poodles to all that room. Take your time, try out both styles of boats and go the way that feels best.  

IMO if you are planning any night cruising then you should have a separate PH that is light-box tight. Remember, your boat is a boat-first and a condo-second. Also, there is the complete coolness factor to a PH. Your command post. It's like a guy with a workshop in his garage or a man cave in his basement.  

This is our first powerboat. We have always had sailboats in the past. We wanted a PH design vs a helm in the salon. I really like the visibility from the PH. It is a very comfortable place, not only when underway, but it provides a nice spot to get away and read etc... when at anchor or at the dock. However, we are in the Salish Sea in Washington State. Like BobnDoc we find that we rarely use the flybridge. The PH is just such a great place to be. Out of the wind and chill (our water temps are always cold) and when it is hot and sunny we are out of the sun. In other parts of the country folks seem to use the flybridge almost exclusively so a PH may be redundant. If you are looking at new boats, check out the North Pacific 45 Pilothouse. IMO it is the nicest layout for a 45’ PH design I’ve seen.  

long-cours.62

I do like a nice pilot house, good ones just have that feel. Makes you want to settle down and enjoy the trip. That said, I also have a negative associated opinion. On boats say roughly less than about 55 feet, the trade offs in having a pilot house, well they ask too much of the boat. You wind up with a cramped salon/galley combo. I just don’t generally like the overall result. On boats over that size, generally not a problem. Just my opinion.  

I also think it has a lot to do with weather where you boat. If it is often extremely hot or wet I would choose a pilot house over salon helm or flybridge helm but in moderately dry climates with pleasant temperatures I much prefer a flybridge helm. Locking thru is another consideration as easy access to side decks makes life a lot easier if you intend to do many locks. I also love the North Pacific 43 or 45 if I were to do a pilothouse.  

To my mind the PH should be bright airy and roomy as the crew will collect there in daytime , esp if the weather sucks.  

Senior Member

We have 2 stations. The upper helm and the pilot house. The separation of the salon and PH allow for 2 separate places for social interaction. The salon also offers media opportunities w/o disturbing the watch. The PH also offers room below for engine/mechanicals while allowing a lower design profile of the boat overall which to me is more aesthetically pleasing in a small boat while creating lower windage in docking situations. I agree with ghost that the PH does ask a lot of a small boat hence we do not have a 2nd cabin but on night passages the PH shines. At the upper station we have only a bimini with no side curtains so all watchkeeping is done from the PH. No one is allowed outside without another crew in visual contact. PH can be sealed from light interference and since you are standing on the engine room it is easier to monitor subtle changes in sounds. Don  

I like the elevation of the pilothouse. Better visibility forward and to to sides than a saloon without the excessive motion of the flybridge. Having all your displays at one helm is great. Heat, air conditioning, or great airflow for climate control is wonderful. Complete protection from inclement weather is a must. A few steps down to the galley and a few more to the head when single handing is convenient. It can be as quiet as you like with a greater distance from the engine and closing the side doors. Having all those features and a comfortable bench seat for friends makes it extremely social. Ted  

Around here, crab pot visibility is an issue. We can see those from our flybridge, but would not be able to see 'em from a lower helm (if we had one) if it was not in a raised pilot house. -Chris  

For me, there are only two advantages to a pilot house: if you travel a lot a night and if you want to get out of the weather. We have helm stations on the flybridge and inside the salon. I drive 98% of the time from the flybridge. I much prefer being in the open air, plus visibility is better. When it’s cold, we just close an isinglass enclosure and we’re fine with temperatures in the low 40s. The only time I drive from below is when it gets really hot. We don’t travel much at night, other than occasional trips offshore for a few days at a time. On those trips, I prefer driving from the flybridge, so not having a pilot house is no disadvantage. I would prefer to have that space for living area. Paul  

Also I'd say that if you plan ocean cruising then that needs to be done from the PH. I remember climbing up to the flybridge when I was 30 miles offshore and it felt really insecure.  

I favor a PH for many of the reasons mentioned. In our boat I also find it convenient that I can access the engine hatch in the PH sole and not disrupt activity in the saloon. The forward berth and head are still accessible as well. I don't have a fly bridge and don't really miss it. Perhaps if I were cruising in the Bahamas I might due to the better angle to visibly navigate shalliws and ariund coral  

We have a smaller boat (34.5 FT overall) with a pilot house, and we cannot see ever having another boat without one. While it does take up some space from the saloon, it is also a separate room we use all the time - for piloting, of course, but also to enjoy the view while having coffee at anchor. It has really extended our boating season, as well. When it is too cold, wet or hot to enjoy being outside, we love being one of the only boats out for a ride while enjoying our heated or cooled driving station. When we have a group on board with us, it also separates the driver from all the hubub (very helpful when driving at night). When it rains, we just close the windows and doors, no need to deal with canvas. And being out of the sun is probably good for our skin long term. We have excellent visibility, and with the side doors I can pull up to a dock very easily when just the two of us or even alone. I can step right from the steering station to the dock. Flybridges are nice on perfect days, but given the choice we'd take a pilothouse over a flybridge anytime. As an example, we have the smallest boat of all of our boating friends. While we often jump on one of the larger boats if the group wants to go for a cruise or to a restaurant, in the shoulder season everyone wants to take the tug even though it is smaller. One other benefit is that it breaks up the space between our forward berth and the saloon, which is nice when we have guests staying the night. We don't have a separate guest cabin, so they stay on the pull out in the saloon with nice separation.  

I've had both. My previous Nordic Tug had the pilothouse and I loved it. I had excellent visibility at night. There was proper room for all of my electronics and then some. It was a very nice place to be for long stretches of time. However, the pilothouse is a considerable percentage of overall space and it's got a pretty dedicated use. My current boat has a helm station in the salon. I've never used it. I drive 100% of the time from the fly bridge. I find the visibility from the salon pretty bad. Plus there's not a lot of room for electronics. If I would try to install the full suite of electronics I'd want, it would reduce visibility for people in the salon and take up space that can be used for other things. In short, pluses and minuses for both options.  

psneeld said: Once again, opinions all over the map with some being credible from lots of experience, others not so much First and foremost, have yet to be in a pilothouse of anything from 26 feet to 399 feet that you can see anything at night through windows. You either go outside or stick your head outside or look through an open window for true night vision. That includes most aircraft too. Are there a few vessels out there that you can see from the pilothouses clearly at night? Maybe, but out of hundreds I have driven, I haven't been aboard one. Other than that, there are good and bad pilothouses for all different uses of a boat. Many people never cruise at night while others overnight regularly. Some boats ARE more condo like than long range cruiser....what fits your boating style? Opinions are great to verify what you might like, but to point you in the right direction is like using a compass with no magnetic properties.... Click to expand...

As usual, depends on the boat. I drive 99 percent of the time from the salon. More advxntages then disadvantages....On my boat...to me..... Hard to make a sweeingconclusion across a huge selection of boats, captains and cruising styles. Pick a particular boat and..... current owners and experienced boaters can give specifics that may or may not apply.  

bogranjac1 said: I have never had any problem seeing everything - let alone anything at night, but then my window is raked back. I don't suffer from instrument glare bouncing around either. Maybe that's why boats that spend serious amounts of time underway at night ie. trawlers and naval craft have raked windows. Click to expand...

On several designs, a pilot house gets you just a few degrees higher enough to see that log in the water in front of your bow. I've got one and love it but I also have pilot house doors on both sides, which I highly recommend. Again its personal choice but I've never had or wanted a fly bridge because it's either too hot, too cold, bugs, and i'd prefer to limit the number of trips i take to a dermatologist. In addition to the other manufacturers mentioned, I'd suggest the OP look at Nordic 42, or American Tug 41/435.  

psneeld said: Been on plenty of raked window boats and any amount of light inside usually inhibits night vision. The pros generally agree and why lookouts are often outside when conditions permit. Click to expand...

This is easy to check out if you have a marina with a Nordic Tug roughly around 30 feet and a Ranger Tug, roughly around 30 feet. So before I begin, my bias for the waters around me is for an Express Cruiser, not a trawler - sometimes I want speed, i can always slow down. To me the Ranger Tug is an express cruiser in drag. I mean how fast can it go and how fast can a true tug go, no contest. But the Ranger has a layout I like, the inside helm is open to the rest of the cabin. You have no isolation so that when guest are with you or your partner is present, you are part of the social group. Now if you look at a Nordic Tug, you are isolated from the your guests. Its kind of like the new open concept in kitchens. Most don't want to be isolated in a kitchen when guests come over, the cook still wants to be part of the socializing; hence the removal of walls if you watch those renovation shows. Usually the first thing to go is the wall between the living room and kitchen. I also feel, especially on smaller boats such as my 29 foot express cruiser, the salon area feels and is bigger when the inside helm is part of and not separated from the salon. So the salon on the Ranger Tug will feel larger than the salon on the Nordic Tug. Now for the suggestion you need isolation to properly and safely maneuver a boat, this of course just doesn't hold water, so to speak. Driving a car is much more dangerous than boating ever will be, every time we pass a car, a car passes us, we turn, back up, and park we put ourselves at risk far more often than boating. Yet we have passengers in a car frequently in the "salon." For night boating, you just need to ensure you have proper night lighting while under way. I'm putting a new LED, four little rectangle jobbie with both blue and white light, the blue for night time piloting. You will lose your night time vision if a bright light comes on but use an infantry trick. If you have to have a light on for a short period of time for whatever reason, close one eye and leave it closed, it will retain night vision, you'll probably only need one eye to complete your task, like get a pop out of the fridge.  

Airstream345

We really dig our raised pilothouse. It's where everyone gathers when underway (it has a big L-shaped Settee and a watch berth), we have great visibility, it's protected and warm in the winter and it doubles as a "room/office" when not underway.  

rjwilliams11741

makobuilders said: Also I'd say that if you plan ocean cruising then that needs to be done from the PH. I remember climbing up to the flybridge when I was 30 miles offshore and it felt really insecure. Click to expand...

Master and Commander

READY said: I favor a PH for many of the reasons mentioned. In our boat I also find it convenient that I can access the engine hatch in the PH sole and not disrupt activity in the saloon. The forward berth and head are still accessible as well. I don't have a fly bridge and don't really miss it. Perhaps if I were cruising in the Bahamas I might due to the better angle to visibly navigate shalliws and ariund coral Click to expand...

Attachments

• May 16, 2019

psneeld said: have yet to be in a pilothouse of anything from 26 feet to 399 feet that you can see anything at night through windows. You either go outside or stick your head outside or look through an open window for true night vision. Click to expand...

It's also not practical to actually stand watch from the bridge wing or Portuguese bridge if you are the sole watch stander. And they are not all that practical on ldsx than 40 foot vessels. So "seeing" stuff in the water on dark, choppy nights is almost a joke except occasionally....... small boats and their operations are usually a compromisd in many ways.  

As usual on TF, we chime in supporting our own choices supporting anchors, engines, sedan, pilot house, sun deck yada yada. If the OP were to be a bit more revealing on things like cruising grounds, desired boat speed, budget, boat appliances, number of berths, ER access etc possibly some different answers would spring forth. My top of the list ocean traveler is a non pilot house FPB. When I was younger it was a Hinckley sail boat. Today, the cruising grounds are inhabited with motoring sail boats. Grand Banks made their name on thousands of non PH cruise worthy vessels. Discussions about night vision just don't apply in many cruisers game plan for a variety of reasons in the PNW. Right now I'm in Petersburg AK with 18 hours of daylight. Probably 99.9% of most cruisers' miles are daylight only. I can't imagine why a sane person (commercial fishermen excepted) would consider a night time cruise in BC given the debris. So what is it for the OP? A top shelf PH Nordhavn for crossing oceans, a coastal PH Selene, a hot selling Ranger Tug, a very nice older Grand Banks, a flush deck Hatteras, an Elling, Sea Ray, Aspen power cat, Albin, or Ocean Alexander sedan? All of the aforementioned are great boats IMHO. So many choices, hopefully intended use is taken into account.  

Similar threads

• ValhowellPower
• Dec 8, 2024

• hollywood8118
• Aug 28, 2024

• Nov 16, 2024

• Aug 27, 2024

• Nov 30, 2024
• Boats | For Sale

Latest posts

• Latest: Rufus
• Today at 12:25 AM
• Latest: paulga
• Today at 12:23 AM
• Today at 12:19 AM

• Latest: Mainship Pilot
• Yesterday at 10:10 PM
• Latest: rslifkin
• Yesterday at 9:58 PM
• Latest: Bmarler
• Yesterday at 9:43 PM

• Latest: Datenight
• Yesterday at 8:51 PM
• Latest: hcholden719
• Yesterday at 8:29 PM

• Latest: Caballero II
• Yesterday at 8:12 PM
• Yesterday at 7:58 PM

Visit our Popular Forums

• Monohull Sailboats
• Multihull Sailboats
• Powered Boats
• General Sailing
• Antares Yachts
• Fountaine Pajot
• Lagoon Catamarans

Cruising Business

• Boat Classifieds
• General Classifieds
• Crew Positions
• Commercial Posts
• Vendor Spotlight

Life Aboard a Boat

• Provisioning: Food & Drink
• Families, Kids, & Pets Afloat
• Recreation, Entertainment, & Fun
• Boat Ownership & Making a Living
• Liveaboard's Forum

Seamanship, Navigation & Boat Handling

• Seamanship & Boat Handling
• Training, Licensing, & Certification
• Health, Safety, & Related Gear
• Rules of the Road, Regulations, & Red Tape

Engineering & Systems

• Const. / Maint. / Refit
• Product / Service Reviews
• Electronics: Comms / AV
• Electrical: Batts / Gen / Solar
• Lithium Power Systems
• Engines & Propulsion
• Propellers & Drive Systems
• Plumbing / Fixtures
• Deck Hdw: Rigging / Sails
• Aux. Equipment & Dinghy
• Anchoring & Mooring

Photo Categories

• Member Galleries
• Life Onboard
• Sailing in the Wind
• Power Boats
• Cruising Destinations
• Maint. & Boat Building
• Marine Life
• Scuba Diving & Divers
• General Photos

Recent Photos

Listing Categories

• African Cats
• view more »
• Crew Wanted
• Crew Available
• Enhance Your Account
• Meet the Mods
• Meet the Advisors
• Signup for The Daily Cruiser Email

> > Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on Cruisers Forums. 31-12-2012, 21:38   Boat: Looking... is well proven. It provides protection from the elements and conserves crew energy. Many Pilothouse sailboats are around, and as sailors get older, their appeal is obvious. They range from factory-produced small and home-builts to very large one-off custom designs. Asking for opinions on the best of anything will always bring a wide variety of views. I hope that those who respond will be specific as to WHY they prefer one design over another so that those considering the Pilothouse option may be better able to understand the different choices available. Of course, is always a consideration, so I hope that posters will give an idea of the prices that folks looking to these might anticipate what sort of they would need to actually buy them. 31-12-2012, 22:11   Boat: Van Helleman Schooner 65ft StarGazer set of sail from inside Efficient sailor, easily driven and sea-kindly 31-12-2012, 23:19   Boat: Nauticat set of sail from inside Efficient sailor, easily driven and sea-kindly 31-12-2012, 23:25   Boat: Moody 42 , good construction, decent sailor, aft and aft . is small but very sea worthy. Two heads seems overkill though. Good access to . In general these type boats are a bit tough to air condition due to large windows but I've got a good bit of in the coach roof and get by with one 16K unit. Let me know if you have any specific questions. 01-01-2013, 02:47   Boat: Bruce Roberts 44 Ofshore 2-27 to a pilothouse . The new after bulkhead will be even with the after edge of the bridge , so I will lose a little space. When finished I will have inside, and the ability to connect a tiller in the cockpit for emergencies or maybe for docking/undocking. I have a of skin cancer so I want to minimize my exposure as much as possible. Besides, I don't steer a ship outside in the , so why should I steer my sailboat outside? I would rather stay dry and warm, especially when I have everything outside set for self-tacking. The is inside, I want to be inside. A sun worshipper I am not. The only hitch other than the obvious hit on windward performance, is I might have to raise the gooseneck attachment a few inches and move the vang a little toward the . But it is do-able. I suppose it will be the only pilothouse 2-27 afloat, I don't know. Pilothouses rock. Especially if you burn easily or have had skin cancer or are at risk. Or sail in cold, wet places. 01-01-2013, 03:31   Boat: a sailing boat or , boats. b. 01-01-2013, 04:04   Boat: Van Helleman Schooner 65ft StarGazer 01-01-2013, 04:12   Boat: Freedom 32 2-27 to a pilothouse boat. The new after bulkhead will be even with the after edge of the bridge deck, so I will lose a little cockpit space. When finished I will have inside, and the ability to connect a tiller in the cockpit for emergencies or maybe for docking/undocking. I have a of skin cancer so I want to minimize my exposure as much as possible. Besides, I don't steer a ship outside in the , so why should I steer my sailboat outside? I would rather stay dry and warm, especially when I have everything outside set for self-tacking. The is inside, I want to be inside. A sun worshipper I am not. The only hitch other than the obvious hit on windward performance, is I might have to raise the gooseneck attachment a few inches and move the vang a little toward the . But it is do-able. I suppose it will be the only pilothouse 2-27 afloat, I don't know. Pilothouses rock. Especially if you burn easily or have had skin cancer or are at risk. Or sail in cold, wet places. 01-01-2013, 04:33   Boat: So many boats to choose from. Would prefer something that is not an AWB, and that is beachable... Their yachts are highly customized, and they offer a "for 2" version, that is optimised for a couple. 01-01-2013, 04:37   Boat: Clipper Marine 32 CC Aft Cabin Ketch to keep the lines balanced. Personally, I have never seen a pilothouse sailboat under 40ft which did not look like an add on. 01-01-2013, 05:00   01-01-2013, 06:09   01-01-2013, 07:34   Boat: Gulfstar 50 37/46 ,, 43 ,, many others but these are 3 that can still sail. 01-01-2013, 07:56   01-01-2013, 08:45   Boat: a sailing boat , , Thread Tools Rate This Thread : Posting Rules post new threads post replies post attachments edit your posts is are code is are are are - - - - - - - Privacy Guaranteed - your email is never shared with anyone, opt out any time. What is a Pilothouse on a Boat? November 7, 2024 by, North Pacific Yachts When exploring yacht designs, especially with North Pacific Yachts, you may have come across the term “pilothouse” and wondered what this unique feature entails. In the world of boating, pilothouses are synonymous with functionality, luxury, and convenience, offering a distinct advantage to yacht owners and captains alike. This post delves into what makes a pilothouse an invaluable part of a vessel, examining its role, design advantages, and why so many yacht enthusiasts seek out pilothouse-equipped models for their seafaring adventures. The Role of a Pilothouse on Yachts What a pilothouse is and why it matters. The pilothouse, a core feature on many yachts, is an enclosed space dedicated to navigation and control. Unlike an open helm station, the pilothouse provides a protected environment for captains to navigate the vessel safely in various weather conditions. This enclosed area supports the captain with a comfortable and climate-controlled workspace, essential for longer journeys and navigating through unpredictable weather. For yacht owners, the pilothouse is a valuable addition, offering all-weather capability and advanced visibility while enhancing the yacht’s aesthetic and functional appeal. By having an enclosed space, yacht operators benefit from improved comfort and reduced exposure to the elements, essential for maintaining control in rough or cold conditions. This feature differentiates the pilothouse from other helm stations typically located on the flybridge or exterior areas of the yacht. Primary Functions of a Pilothouse on a Yacht Ensuring Navigation and Safety The primary role of a pilothouse is to serve as the central hub for navigation, control, and safety aboard a yacht. It is outfitted with advanced navigation equipment and control systems to ensure the captain has everything needed to operate the yacht smoothly. Its placement and layout are designed to give the captain optimal visibility, which is particularly beneficial during night voyages or when weather conditions reduce visibility. Protection from Elements One of the pilothouse’s main advantages is its enclosed structure, which shields the captain and crew from wind, rain, and cold. This enclosure significantly reduces fatigue for those navigating the yacht, as they are no longer exposed to the elements. It also enhances visibility by reducing the effects of water spray, sunlight glare, and fogging on windows, making navigation easier and safer. Supporting Communication and Coordination In addition to enhancing navigation and comfort, the pilothouse serves as a communication hub, allowing the captain to coordinate with crew members easily. Its design enables better sound insulation, making it easier to use communication devices or relay instructions to other parts of the yacht, fostering a safe and organized environment. Key Features of a Yacht Pilothouse Weatherproof and enclosed design. Structural Importance for Rough Weather Navigation The pilothouse is built to withstand various environmental conditions, providing a robust, weatherproof space for yacht operation. Designed with durability in mind, these spaces typically include reinforced windows and sturdy construction materials. The inclusion of heavy-duty window frames, laminated or tempered glass, and corrosion-resistant metals ensures that the pilothouse can handle high winds and rough seas. Benefits of an Enclosed Space An enclosed pilothouse offers a controlled environment with climate control options such as heating and air conditioning. This means the captain can maintain a comfortable temperature regardless of external conditions, enabling year-round usability. This climate control is not just a comfort feature but a necessity during extended journeys, as it allows the captain and crew to stay alert and focused, avoiding temperature-related distractions. Positioning and Elevated Views Placement on Various Yacht Models Depending on the yacht model, the pilothouse can be placed on either a raised deck or the main deck. A raised pilothouse is more common on larger yachts, providing an elevated perspective that enhances visibility and safety. On smaller yachts, the pilothouse might be integrated into the main deck area for accessibility, particularly beneficial for easy communication with crew members on different parts of the yacht. Advantages of an Elevated Position An elevated pilothouse gives the captain a broad range of visibility, which is crucial for safe navigation. By situating the pilothouse at a height, the design reduces obstructions in the captain’s line of sight, supporting better detection of other vessels, landmarks, and potential hazards. Furthermore, this positioning can reduce the effects of glare and ensure panoramic views, aiding in situational awareness. Interior Layout and Design Elements Helm Layout: Navigation Equipment and Control Panel The layout within a pilothouse is optimized for functionality, housing essential navigation tools and control panels within easy reach. Key features often include digital radar systems, GPS units, electronic chart plotters, and controls for communication systems, all strategically positioned for easy accessibility. This organization enhances the captain’s ability to respond quickly to changing conditions. Ergonomic Design: Seating and Ease of Access Ergonomics play a vital role in the pilothouse’s interior design, ensuring that the captain and any additional personnel are comfortable. A high-quality captain’s chair, often adjustable and crafted for stability, is positioned at the helm to maximize comfort during long periods of navigation. Many pilothouses also feature guest seating to accommodate others who may need to observe or assist with navigation. The interior layout prioritizes clear pathways and intuitive access to controls, enabling a seamless transition from one part of the helm to another. Quality Materials and Finishes To enhance the luxury experience onboard, yacht pilothouses often include high-end materials such as leather seating, polished wood finishes, and custom design elements. The aesthetic appeal is balanced with durability, ensuring that materials can withstand exposure to sunlight and salt air without deterioration. These quality materials contribute to the sophisticated and functional environment that yacht owners and operators value. Advantages of Having a Pilothouse on a Yacht All-weather cruising and extended travel options. Ideal for Cold or Rainy Climates A pilothouse is a key feature for yacht owners who plan to sail in colder or rainy climates. Its enclosed and weatherproof design provides essential protection from wind, rain, and cold temperatures, making all-weather cruising possible. This allows yacht operators to navigate comfortably through storms, ensuring that the helm remains fully operational without exposure to the elements. Extended Range and Off-Season Cruising A pilothouse also enables long-range cruising, even in unpredictable weather, offering greater flexibility in travel plans. Yacht owners with pilothouses gain access to off-season travel opportunities, reaching remote or colder regions that may otherwise be inaccessible. The pilothouse’s climate control, including heating and cooling options, provides the necessary comfort for extended journeys, allowing yacht owners to explore beyond typical yachting seasons. Enhanced Safety and Visibility Reinforced Construction for Safety Safety is a core component of any pilothouse design. Most pilothouses are built with reinforced glass and strong construction materials, providing enhanced protection in rough seas. Laminated or tempered glass is often used for pilothouse windows, preventing shattering in case of high-impact situations. This level of safety is crucial when traveling through challenging conditions, giving captains and passengers peace of mind. Improved Visibility for Navigational Awareness Visibility is essential in pilothouse design, offering captains a broader and unobstructed view of the surrounding waters. This panoramic visibility aids in spotting obstacles, identifying nearby vessels, and locating landmarks, contributing to safer navigation. By positioning the pilothouse at an elevated level, visibility is maximized, allowing the captain to make informed decisions and react promptly to potential hazards, enhancing the yacht’s overall safety. Comfort and Control During Extended Journeys Enhanced Comfort for Long Voyages For captains and crew members who spend long hours at sea, a pilothouse offers the comfort and climate control necessary to reduce fatigue. With adjustable seating, air conditioning, and heating systems, the pilothouse ensures an ergonomic and comfortable workspace. This design is essential for extended journeys, where reliable comfort enables operators to stay alert and responsive to changing maritime conditions. A Social and Functional Gathering Space Pilothouses serve as practical spaces for navigation but also act as social hubs for crew and guests. Family members, friends, or additional crew can gather in the pilothouse, sharing the journey while enjoying panoramic views from the enclosed space. By providing seating and a controlled climate, the pilothouse becomes a place to enjoy conversations or watch the scenery comfortably, adding a social dimension to its functionality. Benefits of Pilothouses for Different Types of Yacht Owners For adventure seekers and long-range cruisers. Support for Global Exploration Pilothouses are particularly appealing for yacht owners interested in global navigation and long-range cruising. With their all-weather capability and reliable construction, pilothouses are ideal for those who aim to explore high seas or remote regions. The reinforced structure and high-tech navigation systems of a pilothouse ensure that adventurous yacht owners can face a variety of environments with confidence, making it a favored choice for expedition yachts. Reliability for High-Seas Adventures Having a dedicated pilothouse enhances the reliability of any yacht, offering a safe and predictable control space regardless of external conditions. This reliability is invaluable for high-seas adventures where unexpected weather and challenging waters are common. With a well-equipped pilothouse, yacht owners can embark on exploratory voyages, knowing their vessel has the navigation and safety features to handle diverse conditions. For Families and Social Yachting Experiences A Safe and Comfortable Space for Families For family-oriented yacht owners, pilothouses offer a secure and comfortable environment, allowing family members to enjoy the journey together. The enclosed nature of the pilothouse provides a protected space where children and guests can relax without being exposed to harsh weather. Additionally, pilothouses have seating arrangements that make it easy for family members to gather, observe the journey, and share the excitement in a safe, comfortable environment. Creating Memorable Experiences The panoramic views and enclosed comfort of a pilothouse enhance the overall yachting experience, providing a memorable setting for shared experiences. Whether watching a sunset or navigating through scenic waters, the pilothouse offers a unique vantage point that family members and friends can enjoy together. This combination of safety and enjoyment makes pilothouses an appealing feature for social yacht owners looking to create lasting memories onboard. For Yacht Enthusiasts Focused on Safety and Precision Enhanced Navigation and Control Yacht enthusiasts who prioritize safety and control value the precision that a dedicated pilothouse provides. The advanced navigation equipment and intuitive helm layout allow captains to fine-tune their navigation and maneuvering skills, making pilothouses ideal for those who seek mastery over their vessel. The structured layout of controls, paired with an uninterrupted view, enables precise handling in all situations, an aspect particularly valued by enthusiasts focused on safety. A Commitment to the Craft of Yachting For those who take pride in the discipline of yachting, pilothouses are more than functional spaces—they symbolize a commitment to skillful, responsible navigation. The dedicated navigation and control area reflects a serious approach to yachting, where safety, visibility, and control come together. This attention to detail in pilothouse design resonates with owners who value a professional-grade approach to the craft, making pilothouses a meaningful addition to their yacht. Why North Pacific Yachts Designs Yachts with Exceptional Pilothouses Our approach to pilothouse design and innovation. At North Pacific Yachts, we prioritize combining durability and luxury in every pilothouse design, ensuring they offer both comfort and functionality. Our approach is to craft pilothouses that meet the unique needs of each yacht owner, with attention to quality and longevity. By incorporating cutting-edge materials and construction techniques, we ensure that  our pilothouses  are not only durable but also refined, delivering a comfortable and reliable experience. Commitment to Safety, Quality, and Customer Satisfaction We uphold strict safety standards in pilothouse construction, using premium materials that enhance durability and visual appeal. By focusing on quality craftsmanship, we create pilothouses that withstand the rigors of maritime environments, contributing to an enjoyable ownership experience. Our commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction is evident in every detail, from reinforced windows to ergonomic layouts. Supporting Yacht Owners with Custom Pilothouse Options To cater to the diverse needs of yacht owners, we offer custom pilothouse designs that reflect individual preferences and enhance usability. Our team works closely with clients to create pilothouses that match their specific yachting lifestyle, with options for additional features, upgrades, and personalized design elements. This flexibility allows each yacht owner to create a pilothouse space that is both functional and tailored to their needs, ensuring the best possible experience on the water. At North Pacific Yachts, we’re here to make your journey to owning the perfect yacht seamless and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for expert guidance on model specifications, insights into custom build options, or simply need a few questions answered, our team is ready to assist. With years of experience in yacht building, we’re dedicated to understanding your unique vision and helping you navigate the entire process with ease. Reach out to us by email at [email protected] for personalized responses to all your inquiries. If you’d prefer a conversation, we invite you to give us a call at 1-877-564-9989. Speaking directly with our experienced team can provide immediate answers and professional insights into everything from specific build features to delivery timelines. At North Pacific Yachts, your satisfaction is our top priority, and we’re here to ensure you’re confident and informed at every step of your yacht ownership journey. See our models here:  44 Sedan  45 Pilothouse 450 Pilothouse 49 Pilothouse 49 Euro Pilothouse 590 Pilothouse Related Posts Why are Sailboats Called Yachts? What is the Difference Between a Pilothouse and a Wheelhouse? Are Pilot Boats Unsinkable? Head Office & Sales 877-564-9989 [email protected] © 2024 North Pacific Yachts Quick links. Forum Listing Marketplace Advanced Search About The Boat Sailboat Design and Construction SailNet is a forum community dedicated to Sailing enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about sailing, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, repairs, reviews, maintenance, and more! William Garden gulf vs rawson pilot house boats Add to quote Does anyone familar with either of these vessels have an opinion of the build quality of one vs the other. Gulfs seem to be a bit less expensive and was wondering WHY??? Thanks for any info or opinions.....Thank YOu!   Both these boats were quite heavily built. Both full keelers, slow but spacious. The Rawson pilothouse version was a bit of an afterthought, and so the Gulfs, which were designed that way, look better (IMO). You may have better wheelhouse visibility on the Rawson. Though I haven't checked myself, I'm surprised that you write the Rawsons are priced higher than the Gulfs. I'd have expected otherwise. There are probably fewer Rawsons around, perhaps that's why. Heavy, comfy cruisers that will be difficult to maneuver in close quarters, as any full keeler will be. Friends recently bought a Gulf 32, which they are very happy with. The Gulf boats were built by Capital yachts, the same folks that build the Newport series of Mull and C&C designs. The Gulf and the Rawson were, IIRC, both drawn by Bill Garden. I think Rawsons were built in Wash. State.   Faster said: Both these boats were quite heavily built. Both full keelers, slow but spacious. The Rawson pilothouse version was a bit of an afterthought, and so the Gulfs, which were designed that way, look better (IMO). You may have better wheelhouse visibility on the Rawson. Though I haven't checked myself, I'm surprised that you write the Rawsons are priced higher than the Gulfs. I'd have expected otherwise. There are probably fewer Rawsons around, perhaps that's why. Heavy, comfy cruisers that will be difficult to maneuver in close quarters, as any full keeler will be. Friends recently bought a Gulf 32, which they are very happy with. The Gulf boats were built by Capital yachts, the same folks that build the Newport series of Mull and C&C designs. The Gulf and the Rawson were, IIRC, both drawn by Bill Garden. I think Rawsons were built in Wash. State. Click to expand... Yeah, tell me about full keel boats. Mine goes forward and turns fine but when it comes to backing? She goes where she wants...., PERIOD!   That's part of the reason I got a four-blade feathering prop that can have different pitches in forward and reverse. Basically, I want to back into the slip under raw power like a mini-van, and I have seen a boat with a similar keel to mine do exactly that in slips using a three-bladed AutoProp. With a fixed prop, basically I coast in neutral and just give a little shot of reverse with the rudder hard over, sending a "squirt" of thrust to move the stern in, rather than to stop the boat. That is the job of the spring line.   I don't know much about Rawsons, but Gulf has a reputation for pretty poor build quality, which I have experienced first hand on thier Newport series of boats. The Gulfs also have a reputation for being really poor sailors, with very uncomfortable roll and pitch motions. That may be why they are cheaply priced....   I looked at both, and finally go to the point where I decided I would get whichever one I found first that was a good value for the money. Though I will say, somewhat echoing JeffH's comments and having owned a Newport 28, that the Rawson's are more "solidly built". Not to say the Gulf's are cheap, but Capital Yachts like all similar manufacturers during that era built boats to a price point. I do think the Gulf's were built better than my Newport was. The joke around here about Rawson's is that you could drop one from the Space Needle and still sail it away... Regarding market value, the Rawson PHs have typically been quite a bit more than the standard sloop models (due to their relative rarity), but still somewhat less than a Gulf 32 (probably due to their ubiquity). You can find either model for a good price and condition, though the average asking prices for both seem to be increasing. As far as performance, I am more familiar with the Gulf. Every single owner I've talked to says they are surprisingly good performers, with most of them impressed with the boats ability to point higher and more comfortably than they would have imagined. Rawson owners more often mention the feeling of safety and comfort their boat gives them in harsh conditions. Some of said they are fairly slow, which is no surprise given the even shorter waterline. William Garden himself has stated that the "little Gulf 32" was one of his favorite all time designs.   Interesting that both pilothous versions of the Rawson shown above have bowsprits... the original 30 did not, though many have been modified. I'd expect that to be due to some inherently heavy weather helm, relieved somewhat by using the bowsprit to move the CE forward on the sailplan. btw Rawson also built a 26 footer, often described as a round chine, masthead version of the venerable Ben Seaborn designed Thunderbird.   Faster said: Interesting that both pilothous versions of the Rawson shown above have bowsprits... the original 30 did not, though many have been modified. I'd expect that to be due to some inherently heavy weather helm, relieved somewhat by using the bowsprit to move the CE forward on the sailplan. btw Rawson also built a 26 footer, often described as a round chine, masthead version of the venerable Ben Seaborn designed Thunderbird. Click to expand... There were 3 different deck versions in glass - one that closely mimiced the original wood deck plan, the "Seattle" deck, with a racier look, and the final "Booth" deck with a larger house and a bit more room inside. There were also several sanctioned builders, Booth in Victoria for one. The glass hulls in all versions were identical in shape, of course, and were to weigh in the same as the original woodies.   I have to agree with sailboy21 about how rugged the Rawsons are. I have one of the rare ketch models. I managed to "bump" a sea wall at about 5 kts with the only damage being to the paint and a gouge in the rub rail. Don't ask, it is a long and painful story. I would recommend a Rawson to anyone, anywhere.   I've been looking at the Gulf 32 as a full time live aboard. How would the Rawson be as a live aboard being that its even smaller than the gulf?   I lived aboard my Rawson Pilot House (1982 factory finished) for 6 years with a very large Yellow Lab. Not much walking around room in the interior but everything you needed was there. I especially loved the concrete that extended above the waterline at the bow for things that go bump in the night. Lots of stowage and tankage. 100 gallons of fresh water and 70 gallons of diesel and a Perkins 108. Hot and cold pressure water, a wet head for a shower. Diesel stove for heat and cooking. Very large fridge/freezer. Punching out of Bellingham Bay in the summer westerlies I would sometimes have to use the windshield wiper as I enjoyed the view of the yachties in their oilies huddled behind dodgers trying to stay warm. I'd salute them with my hot chocolate. They are great boats. Comfortable, dry. Once the rail was down that is as far as it would go. Very predictable. Just right.   ?             178K members Top Contributors this Month Recommended Communities 478 IMAGES 1984 Gulf 32 Pilothouse Pilothouse for sale TANTON YACHT DESIGN.: Pilothouse. Sailboats 1983 Hans Christian 44 Pilothouse Sail Boat For Sale 2021 Com-Pac Pilothouse Sail New and Used Boats for Sale pilothouse sailboat 1980 Corbin PILOTHOUSE Voilier Bateau à Vendre COMMENTS Pilothouse designs - SailNet Community Nov 10, 2006 · I've never sailed on a pilothouse boat, but I'm intrigued. Can anyone help me out with pros and cons for cruising (bluewater, island hopping, etc.) with a pilothouse design? Here's what I've got so far: Pros: More cabin space, well-lighted cabin space, dry shelter for wet passages, added secuity (?), anything else? Disadvantages of a pilot house design? - Cruisers & Sailing ... Nov 12, 2020 · I'm intrigued by the Dufour 12000CT, because 1) it has a wheel inside the cabin AND outside in the cockpit, and 2) it has big windows all around the cabin, giving lots of visibility and light, unlike most sailboats. In bad weather, one can pilot from inside, with excellent visibility. It does not have a big box-like cabin like some pilot house ... Pros and Cons On Pilothouse Yachts - Cruisers & Sailing Forums Aug 6, 2011 · Re: pros and cons on pilothouse yachts Same thoughts as James above Nice looking boat, can't see why the engine is considered small, 4.4 HP per ton of boat isn't small. What do you think about a pilothouse sailboat - SailNet Community Sep 25, 2007 · On a boat my size, it might carry 6 or 8 crew to race, but I only have room for four in the pilot house and the side decks are not designed to be sat on. Racing boats need lots of space to let a large crew move about fast. The pilot house does add windage, which equals drag, which equals not so fast up wind. Benefits of a pilothouse boat - Ocean Navigator Oct 31, 2019 · All boats are full of design compromises, and adding a pilothouse brings a few disadvantages. For me, the pros outweigh the cons. Weight: The added weight of the pilothouse might be an issue for go-fast sailors, although we never found it to be responsible for any poor performance we could identify. To know if the weight is really an issue, it ... To have or not to have a pilothouse? - Trawler Forum Dec 2, 2017 · I do like a nice pilot house, good ones just have that feel. Makes you want to settle down and enjoy the trip. That said, I also have a negative associated opinion. On boats say roughly less than about 55 feet, the trade offs in having a pilot house, well they ask too much of the boat. You wind up with a cramped salon/galley combo. Best Pilothouse Sailboat? - Cruisers & Sailing Forums Jan 1, 2013 · It provides protection from the elements and conserves crew energy. Many Pilothouse sailboats are around, and as sailors get older, their appeal is obvious. They range from factory-produced small boats and home-builts to very large one-off custom designs. Asking for opinions on the best of anything will always bring a wide variety of views. Pilothouses on Boats – What They Are & Why They Matter for ... Nov 7, 2024 · On smaller yachts, the pilothouse might be integrated into the main deck area for accessibility, particularly beneficial for easy communication with crew members on different parts of the yacht. Advantages of an Elevated Position. An elevated pilothouse gives the captain a broad range of visibility, which is crucial for safe navigation. The Hull Truth - Boating and Fishing Forum - Pilot House The cock pit in a pilot house is huge. I will tell you the best option I have on my boat is a seaspension seat. They are expensive and worth the money. I think the pilot house shines when it is cool outside and also being able to have a conversation with someone even when running flat out. William Garden gulf vs rawson pilot house boats | SailNet ... Dec 12, 2007 · And the incredible light and space and head room and airy feel of our pilothouse Gulf make it stand head and shoulders above all the other dark small dungeons out there. Every boat has pros and cons, of course, but one of the most wonderful characteristics of the Gulf 32 is the performance/value ratio. catamaran gulet motorboat powerboat riverboat sailboat trimaran yacht