Opinions - cockpit forward seating

J

JeffR

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I have an interest in the 3560/3760. I haven't been on this actual model yet, but have been on others with the cockpit forward seating. My initial reaction was that I liked it for the exact reason Regal advertises - that all guests, captain, etc. are together as a group. BUT, the more I think about it, the more it seems that this is really only a good arrangement when driving around, and doesn't appear very functional when stopped and socializing for any reason. I boat in the midwest, in Lake Michigan, so for a large percentage of the season, sitting on the swim platform and dangling legs in the water isn't real comfortable, either.

What are others thoughts on this seating arrangement?
 
You're going to get opinions for and against that seating arrangement.

It really is one of those either you like it or you don't things.
 
The cockpit forward seating is what drew us to Regal in the first place. We purchased a new 2003 3860 and still love it. Even socializing on the boat at the dock is great with that setup. I think because the helm seat can be used as an integrated part of the social area even when not underway, it provides more actual social room than boats with the standard bench seats upfront. It has a much more open feel to it. Of course you need to experience it for yourself to see if you like it. Judging by the many SeaRay owners with bench seats, it seems not everyone likes the cockpit forward arrangement.
 
Thanks for stating the obvious, Rommer! :D

Yes, you are correct, but I was really hoping for some first hand feedback. What are the pluses and minuses? What do you like and dislike about it that might not be apparent to those of us who have simply looked at them and not actually used the arrangement for extended periods of time? If you had to buy a new boat today (not based on Brand) and could pick the "Standard" u-shape seating, or the cockpit forward, which would you choose? etc, etc.

Thanks.
 
I have a 2007 3060 and bought the boat for the seating and the brand. We just like Regals. The upside is that when cruising you can actually be with the people you brought. Another plus is that for most of the people there is less wind when cruising if they are in the forward seating and it makes for easier conversation. The one minus I can think of is if you have a boatful a couple of people will be stranded in the back facing the backs of everyone else. Of course with the l shaped seating you are all alone in the front so I guess it is 50/50. You may want to send commonmedic and email or PM since he has a 4060 and it is closer to the size you are looking at. I am hoping the next boat will be a 3860.
 
Forward seating is the best thing since sliced bread for my family and friends.It gives you two options,fillin for sun pad,and the best is ,it keeps you together to socializing.I give it a 10 on a 1 to 10 scale.
 
Fill in for a sun pad? Come on medic, you have a freakin hardtop! How much sun can you be getting?
 
[:-hspin] Two cent input - we have had several boats over the years and love this layout the best. We entertain quite a bit and it has never been an issue at the dock, cruising or on hook. We're (hopefully) going to upgrade our boat this next year and it will be another Regal with the same setup!
 
I came from a Aftcabin Motor yacht where most of the activity was somewhere else on the boat. I have gone to the Regal because of the layout.

What I like is the openess with the cockpit table down but when you want to serve food or play cards or whatever you have the table. It can be a little crowded with the table up but I prefer it that way. This system also allows people to be under cover for sun or rain and the aft area is more open to the elements.

I looked at every express on the market and chose the Regal because of many reasons. The cockpit seating was just one of them.
 
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