This would also free the cockpit in front of the two steering wheels
completely from all sail handling once under way, as long as no
sails are being set, lowered or reefed. The double helm stations
and the large width of the stern ensure that the person at the
helm always has a good all-round view as well as clear sight of the
luff and the tell-tails of the jib.
The instruments are placed by the helms and cannot be obstructed
52
from view by other sailors in the cockpit. The engine panel and
the autopilot are located on the starboard side, a chart plotter is
mounted under the rear edge of the cockpit table, which is a good
and proven solution.
The cockpit in front of the steering wheels offers a lot of space
and enough seating around the large central folding table. On our
test sail, we were on board with five adults and in the cockpit we
never felt cramped at any time.
This feeling of space can be taken to yet another level when
the yacht is moored in the harbour with the stern to the jetty or
anchored in a beautiful bay. Then the large hatch in the stern can
be lowered to create a real terrace above the water. Perfect for
bathing, for landing with the dinghy and also very easy boarding
from the pontoon.
Here in the stern there is a large storage space under the cockpit
floor, in addition to two cockpit lockers and another storage space
in the bow, accessed from deck. The anchor winch is placed under
this hatch and a half-height bulkhead separates the chain locker
from another, deep storage space for fenders, lines or additional
downwind sails.
Time to go below deck. The companionway is safe and comfortable
to climb down, thanks to the absence of a bridge deck and
wide and not very steep steps into the saloon. The striking hull
lines with the continuous chine and the large beam not only benefit
the sailing characteristics, but also provide an almost unbelievable
space below deck.
TEST - BAVARIA C38