Aftermarket stern rail seats.

[Jim Jansen]

Would like to add aftermarket stern rail seats to my 1987 Hunter 26.5, but before I pop for the $200, I thought someone could give me an opinion. Are they really usable and comfortable? Do you recommend also installing rail back cushions?

 

[Bly Berken]

Read the Reviews

Hi Jim -I'm far from having an unbiased opinion as I work here at SailboatOwners.com, but I suggest that you check out the reviews on the stern rail seats. They are written by others who have purchased them. I've included a link which will take you directly into the reviews. The back cushions are also a good idea. The rails can be tough on the spine.

 

[Ray Bowles]

Jim, The're next in importance after sails. You

will love them. I have them on my 95 H26 and with a tiller extender in hand we run the boat from these perches. You can see over the top of the cabin very well from here. I added 1 additional line cleat to both sides under the seats so we can tack from there without having to go forward to release lines.RayS/V Speedy

 

[Michael Salois]

RAIL SEATS

I added after market stern seats to my 26.5 at the end of last season so did not use them much. What use I did get though they worked well. Except for the starboard one which sets on the lazzerette top so it has to be removed to gain access. Thought they were well constructed. Seating is a little cramped because of the back stay

 

[Elaine]

another idea

We purchased padded, sunbrella seats with a back rest that ratchets to different angles. We face these seats forward when sailing but they are also comfortable in the opposite direction with their back against the bulkhead facing aft. We store them below in the evening and place them on the starboard and port cushions for relaxing below. Ours were about $90 from Fawcets, Annapolis, but I've seen them for under $40 from a mail order catalog. Granted, we don't sit as high as we would in a stern-rail seat, but we're under the bimini and in reach of the controls. Plus, we can take them off the boat for relaxing on land or can take them forward to sit on the foredeck while at anchor.