Quote:
Originally Posted by Ron Heron
After several years of cruising with pilothouse and without I've
concluded that pilothouse sailing offers tremendous advantages over
sailing in the raw. Here is what I have found:
1. Much less cockpit glare in a pilothouse - less fatigue, less
sunburn, better visibility.
2. Better environment temperature and sun wise. Can sail for much
longer periods comfortably.
3. Higher position allows for much better visibility.
4. Higher position allows for much greater "feel" of the boat. I can
sail much better from a pilothouse. The sailtrim is easier to get
right and its easier to detect wind and current changes.
5. Access to instrumentation is far superior, no clouded plexiglass
covers.
6. Better airflow through the cockpit of a pilothouse.
7. No wacky tiller to deal with. The wife can't handle a tiller but is
a champ on the wheel.
8. Great view of things going on up on the foredeck. You can see
everything, rather than being down in a "hole".
9. Stuff can be stored out of the weather in the pilothouse.
10. Pets less likely to be washed overboard.
11. Greater protection in strong seas.
12. Excellent for entertaining and getting out of the bugs.
I find a pilothouse sailboat just can't be beat for cruising and would
encourage any serious cruiser to look at them before commiting to a
cockpit boat.
Ron Heron
S/V Seven C's
Biloxi, MS
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First, I will say I am stunned at the outright disrespect some people feel obligated to dish out over an opinion being expressed with seemingly good intentions here. You know who you are.
Second, I have no dog in this since while I own an open cockpit sailboat, I appreciate the options that wheelhouse or pilothouse boats offer also.
Third, I could see where a Pilothouse could have an "apparent" better airflow since solar gain is eliminated or substantially reduced making the environment seem cooler. Anyone ever sat in the shade?
Fourth, according to the logic offered by some regarding the seaworthiness of a pilothouse, how do you feel about catamarans? Which have numerous large windows and high freeboard? Aren't they also considered "cruisers".
Has anyone seen a Shannon Pilot 43? I think the designers there would assert that they are cruisers? As for Colregs related to hearing? Really? Crack a window....
Ron, I say enjoy your boat, it is yours after all, not Bob's or Willard's or anyone else's for that matter. Thank you for your insights and opinions.