Steeringposition on a Jeanneau 40 DS

[freetime]

I can find these 2 steeringpositions on a Jeanneau 40 DS. Around 2002.

Wish one is to recomend for atlantic crossing. And long time cruise?

Nr.1 or Nr.2?



Nr.1 looks very nice in bad weather. But do you have the sailingfeeling with it?

[Weyalan]

I would prefer the second position (and the second cockpit layout). Providing you have a decent bimini, the fact that the wheel is more open/exposed shouldn't be a problem. General all-around visibility will be better from the second one and sail trim will be easier too, I guess. But whatever floats your boat

[freetime]

I prefer nr.2 also. But most of the jeanneau 40 ds have nr.1

On open sea you probably use autopilot much time, but inshore it looks easier to trim the sails as you said.

[Weyalan]

To me, the first photo looks like the layout of a motor-sailer, whereas the second looks like a yacht. Not that there is anything wrong with motor-sailers per se (horses for courses and all that), but frankly (letting my prejudices show), if one intends to spend most of one's time motoring, one might consider purchasing a motor boat!