Steering positions seem to be one of the most controversial aspects of cruising cats. Inboard, outboard, single, twin, high, low – they all have pros and cons and people have (very) strong views! 

Until we sailed the Pogo, with max beam at the transom and wheels out near the sides, I hadn’t realised how good it would feel, on a cruising boat, to have a great view of the rig, waves and traffic (even though I’d taken it for granted on race-boats). Once you’ve experienced it, you wouldn’t want to lose it. 

But… there will also be situations when a protected helm position would be a real benefit… so it’s a difficult choice. 

After sailing various boats we concluded that outboard helms with visibility were our priority and we’d accept the compromise on shelter, on the basis that the pilot does most of the work, especially offshore. Sheltered helm positions tend to have poor visibility (at least on one tack) and on one or two cats you can’t really see the headsail luff from the helm…   

Twin Versa Helms

The standard CM configuration has twin wheels (I think tillers are an option), outboard towards the aft end of the cockpit, so that ticked the visibility box – and it turned out we wouldn’t have to compromise on shelter. 

We’re fortunate to have been boat-searching a year or two after the versa style, hinging pedestals, were developed. CM are onto them and offer an upgrade. It gives the best combination of steering positions that we’ve seen on a cat. The pedestals hinge through about 90° and give both:

• Outboard high position: Great sailing view + unobstructed visibility when docking, without peering through salty glass
• Inboard low position: Sheltered under the bimini – even fully enclosed by canvas cockpit sides

There is an added cost for these pedestals, but steering positions are so fundamental to sailing enjoyment, easier parking and comfort that we think it’s hugely worthwhile.

Helm Seats

We usually like to stand, rather than sit, at the wheel when hand steering but comfortable configuration for both has to be an advantage. Our solution (at the outboard helm positions) are seats with bases that can hinge up against the backrest when not in use: Fold a seat down to sit within comfortable reach of the wheel – or fold it up to create more space for standing behind the wheel, with the frame giving a bum-rest if wanted. 

When the wheels are inboard it will be possible to stand by the wheel or sit on the aft cockpit bench, although a back cushion may be needed to shorten the reach for sitting back.

Line handling from the helm

We tend to use the pilot when hoisting, reefing and furling etc, which seems easier and safer than veering around, juggling steering and line handling. Nevertheless, the CM’s deck layout will be set up so that lines and winches are close to the wheels for manoeuvres. 

Instruments

Twin versa helms do create challenges with the siting of instruments and throttles but, alongside CM, we have a cunning plan. I’ll describe it later (if it comes good!) along with the electronics system.