New Helm Seat

[Sailgunner]

I have use a couple of helm seats for my Hunter 410 to sit higher and more comfortable than just the original curved seat. I finally installed a removable pedestal with seat. The attached pic shows the new seat. I through bolted the base and have a plate on the underside to make sure the installation is solid. The pic shows a wood collar under the base plate that is used to level the base but I replaced that with starboard. Can provide more details if anyone is interested.

 

[Bill Roosa]

Looks great! if not some what unconventional. Let us know how it works when she is sailing heeled at 15 degrees.

 

[Sailgunner]

Looks great! if not some what unconventional. Let us know how it works when she is sailing heeled at 15 degrees.

It swivels so should be fine when healed.

 

[Calif. Ted]

Looks excellent Dennis, mine doesn't swivel but I do, works better when heeled.

 

[jssailem]

Only challenge I see is I'd be heeled on the wrong tack and have to look out of my bad eye...
Arrrrrgggg..

 

[JamesG161]

Here is Capt iPad at the helm in my H 430. The picture was taken while we ate lunch, in the shade, using Raymarine Control App.
But I was surprised you had a cruising seat in Punta Gorda, that can experience high seas that can toss a helmsman around.

My first Safey thought was Helmsman Overboard, since you are well above the life lines. I hope the helmsman "wears a tether".

My second thought was are you sure that the removable OEM seat lock downs will hold the new force applied in a 15° heel and new elevations? Height above deck plus the helmsman's weight will apply new forces.
Jim...

PS: We enjoy our swimming platform which requires removal and stowing of that fiberglas OEM curved seat.

 

[Sailgunner]

Here is Capt iPad at the helm in my H 430. The picture was taken while we ate lunch, in the shade, using Raymarine Control App.
But I was surprised you had a cruising seat in Punta Gorda.

My first negative thought was Helmsman Overboard, since you are well above the life lines. I hope the helmsman "wears a tether".
My second thought was are you sure that the removable OEM seat lock downs will hold the new force applied in a 15° heel and new elevations? Height above deck plus the helmsman's weight will apply new forces.
Jim...

PS: We enjoy our swimming platform which requires removal and stowing of that fiberglas OEM curved seat.
View attachment 130252

What's with the negative comments? Helmsman overboard? Cruising seat in Punta Gorda? Lock downs getting lose? I had a set up like yours and if you happy its okay. I am much happier with my new set up. Nothings gained by making comments about something you know nothing about.

 

[Benny17441]

Next time you replace the chair go all out and get one with arm rests; it will be worth it.

 

[JamesG161]

My comments were on Safety for helmsman! I have modified my post. Sorry!
I was trying to be helpful. I had considered the same idea, for "drift fishing" over a Fish Haven, but for fishing comfort.
Jim...

 

[jssailem]

Last summer, I watched a Hunter 36 motor past me on a bright warm sunny day the owner in a seat 3 feet above the cockpit. It looked like he was on a lounge chair up in the area of his arch. Enjoying the sunshine and cruising with a smile. I had to agree he had a great view of his surroundings.
Would this be a place to occupy when the waves were 5ft of chop and the wind was blowing 35? No. But the conditions being 80 no breeze and blue sky, I was a bit envious. Just a bit. I was using our lounge deck seat watching the boat and area on the starboard side and only occasionally having to stretch and check the Port side for flotsam that might disturb my enjoyment of a perfect day.

 

[Parsons]

I like it, and it's something that I may try on my Catalina. We didn't even get arched seats, so my removable seat on the walk through helm has me looking at the bottom of the Raymarine GPS, even for a tall guy. I took the PO's advice and just sail standing or sitting to the side. Nice woodworking matching the arch at the bottom to the flat base of the seat.

 

[Terry Cox]

I've got it on my Christmas list. Great idea for the uncompromising skipper. https://www.luxedecor.com/product/b...iner-chair-modern-living-room-bar163064344980

Parody

 

[jssailem]

I've got it on my Christmas list

Too funny.

 

[Justin_NSA]

Interesting ideas. I just wish I could find a practical way to keep my BottomSider cushion from going overboard. The ribbed seat gets tiresome.

 

[Stu Jackson]

I just wish I could find a practical way to keep my BottomSider cushion from going overboard.

Very easy: glue some velcro onto it. It could be on the side and then the velcro could be under the seat. Get creative.

 

[Justin_NSA]

Very easy: glue some velcro onto it. It could be on the side and then the velcro could be under the seat. Get creative.

These cushions are so freakin' expensive, I cringe at modifying them. I was looking more at strapping it down somehow. Velcro straps perhaps. IMHO. they are overrated. The (expired) site says not to use insect spray or suntan lotion around them. Seriously? They came with the boat. Even have the name on them.

 

[DaveJ]

Being a rather uncompromising sailor, I was all over the Christmas gift idea...until I saw that it was 135lbs.!!

Cheers

 

[Calif. Ted]

After standing from San Francisco to San Diego I couldn't wait for a more comfortable helm station to suit my more comfortable nature, mine's even got a cupholder.