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HELE MAI OPERATING MANUAL
NW Explorations
1B4: Pilothouse
Deck
As you saw in the floor plan, the salon and
pilothouse are separated from one another by
four steps. The pilothouse is accessed from either
side deck door, the steps from the salon, or the
steps from the flybridge, and is the nerve center of
the boat. The helm offers the skipper remarkably-
well-equipped lower helm station, and a commanding
180-degree view of the boat’s direction and surroundings for
easy, comfortable operation in inclement weather. Just aft of
this is a settee lounge that seats the skipper and two crew as
pilothouse guests.
A table beside the settee can be used for navigation and/
or food service when eating underway. Above this lounge a
pilot berth provides nearby accommodation for a standby
crewperson.
There is storage under the steps to the pilothouse from the
salon.
The helm itself has an extensive equipment list including
but not limited to main engine controls and instruments,
navigation electronics including two large LCD displays with
autopilot (with a remote control so the skipper can run from
the settee), anchor windlass controls; stabilizer control, VHF
radio; depth sounder, fresh water usage counter, and large,
clear and complete electrical system switching and monitoring
controls and systems. No reasonable detail has been
overlooked that could assist the captain in the vessel’s safe and
efficient operation.
To port in the pilothouse are the steps leading up to the flying
bridge providing quick and secure access for crew to this
alternate operating area and prime relaxation spot. Courtesy
lights on the face of each stairway’s risers make access at night
safe with glare for the helmsperson.
The impressive pilothouse panel is the boat’s nerve center.
P/H to stbd: steps down to the saloon and a roomy cabinet.
Pilothouse to port: storage and flying bridge steps.