Replacement helm seat - 2010 R25 SC

[Gunner065]

Hey there folks, so we've owned our 201 R25 SC for a year now, and I just wished we took the plunge earlier.

Anyway, after completing a hockey sock full of upgrades over the past year, I'm trying to find a great replacement for the helm seat. I'm researching high and low online, but there's so much choice I don't know where to start.

I'd like a seat that occupies a similar footprint as the current one, not necessary to have a fold down seat and something that can bring comfort when navigating the pounding of winter weather in the Juan De Fuca Strait (20-25 winds and 4-5 feet swells).

Any suggestions/recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Brian B]

I replaced mine with the Tempress Navistyle Highback a few years ago. It folds like the original did, higher back, thicker seat so you sit a bit higher at the helm. I've found it to be pretty comfortable.
There are some pics here: https://www.boattrader.com/boat/2010-ra ... c-7913218/

 

[Gunner065]

Brian B, thanks for the tip.

I'm looking for a seat with fold up armrests and higher back. I'll probably add a slider as my wife can barely reach the helm when driving. Since we don't have an autopilot yet, and our cruising days span 6-7 hrs/day, I want something that can provide a higher level of comfort while still fitting within the footprint without breaking the bank.

 

[Mr. Ed]

I did a lot of research, also looking for comfort, folding arm rests, and a high back that reclines. The best compromise I could find was from Llebroc, Series one: https://www.llebroc.com/product-p/4brom3lo1.htm

It's not cheap, but after a year of use it's been great. It does take up more counter space than the OEM unit, and it doesn't fold up or swivel. Those options would have raised the seat height more than I wanted. As it is, the seat is about 2" higher than the OEM seat.

 

[Gunner065]

Mr. Ed, thanks for the suggestion, kinda of what I'm looking for.

Now to convince the better half that we need a more comfortable helm seat...

 

[knotflying]

Mr. Ed, thanks for the suggestion, kinda of what I'm looking for.

Now to convince the better half that we need a more comfortable helm seat...

Have the better half take the helm for a day. Then suggest the new seat. :lol:

 

[Mr. Ed]

Mr. Ed, thanks for the suggestion, kinda of what I'm looking for.

Now to convince the better half that we need a more comfortable helm seat...

This may not have happened to you. But every single person who operated my boat, including the 'captain' who did my day and a half orientation has hit the shifter with their butt... usually while checking traffic. Me included. Out in open water it's just embarrassing, but in a tight situation it could be dangerous and expensive. That was my primary justification for the seat upgrade (with the folding arms). That's my story, and I'm sticking to it. 😀

Perhaps it'll help convince the better half that it's cheap insurance, if improved comfort alone doesn't do the trick. Good luck!

 

[Gunner065]

Yes, the "admiral" has driven the boat and find the seat uncomfortable for long hauls. The issue is that she still is in shock about the sticker price with anything to do with owning a boat.

Fortunately, we never had any parts of of our body accidently brush against the throttle while underway either in open waters or during berthing/slipping.

Since we don't have an autopilot (and won't until with upsize to a 29/31 in the mid-term), upgrading our comfort level when driving seems like the more reasonable upgrade to make without breaking the bank.

Plus, I'm in Canada, and although it's easy to get a slip anywhere in the Gulf Islands at 24 hrs notice, availability of good gear without having to wait months is the issue at.

 

[ALICE J]

I second the llebroc mini helm seat with arms. Fit the screw hole pattern on the folding arm, but after two years I replaced the wimpy hinges with stout SS door hinges . Armrests are good for keeping you in place in bumpy seas, however be careful not to place too much strain or they may bend. I had the port arm band slightly when I hit a big wave so it’s a little off kilter presently.