305 awkward helm

[Pipewright]

I have an opportunity to buy a 2007 305 repowered.

My hesitation is the Helm seating arrangement. It’s awkward.

It’s a tad difficult to get in and out of the berth. The helm chair is large. The starboard seating is odd.

Can somebody help me get over this??

 

[SkunkBoat]

The expresses all had centered helms.
Pros-
Helmsman has a much more comfortable ride in rough seas(vs normal starboard helm)
Helmsman can see better to both sides, both forward and aft. I think this is particularily important when fishing.

If you are a fisherman, the center helm on an express style boat is something you look for.
Seating is for riding to and from fishing.

Cons-
Wives hate it.

Yes, the helm chair is too big.

If you want to hang out at the dock, remove the chair and add a table to the top of the post. Then the seating is nice!

 

[Fishtales]

It's 10lbs in a 5lb bag, I'd look elsewhere unless you keep the boat. Otherwise you'll give $ up on the resale.

 

[drbatts]

I have been running a 305 for 10 seasons. The design works well for our type of uses. With the center helm I can seat 4 comfortably under the hard top. With 2 crew members very comfortable in seats. Although I do feel the starboard seat is a little low. The center helm seat is huge and very comfortable on long offshore runs. The center position gives great visibility. For fishing locally and at the dock I replace the helm seat with a table which is a lot more functional.

As far as getting out of the bunk, I assume you been the aft bunk. Which is a little tough to get in and out of but no different from any other boat this size.