Quote:
| Originally Posted by Newflyer After looking at numerous reviews and pictures of yachts, there's one burning question in my mind. Why is it that almost none of the master staterooms have a view as good as the bridge? |
I guess the quick answer is that you don't pilot the yacht from the stateroom.
Elevation above the water increases your visual horizon and allows better vision close over the bow. On most yachts the wheelhouse or bridge is placed in this upper position (prime "real estate") for operational safety. It is becoming more and more common on large (around 200 feet or larger) for an additional accomodation deck to be built above the bridgedeck and this used for the owner's suite. On yachts of this size the pilothouse has plenty of elevation for good visibility and the addition of another deck does not adversely impact stability. The 202 foot Oceanco "Lady Lola" was a pioneer in this design concept. The owner wanted the great view and the pilothouse still had great visibility. The yacht is very well proportioned and carries the design off beautifully. On a 140-160 footer the idea wouldn't work as either the pilothouse would be almost blind or the boat would look very topheavy (most likely be unstable as well).
Dave