Osprey Sea Harrier Console Position

[rickuk3]

Advice needed. I am going to fit a double console with 2 single jockeys behind plus 2 double jockeys side by side. The question is should I mount the console forward with the jockeys behind or mount the console and single jockeys towards the stern and the doubles in front. Most of the time the boat will only have 2 people on board.
What are the advantages/disadvantages of both layouts, particularly with regard to handling and safety.
Richard

[Hightower]

You'll get a smoother ride at the stern, might be a little wetter as well . Might also have too much weight at the back which might affect handling. Especially though high speed turns and stormy conditions.

[Nos4r2]

Are you going to have the fuel tank inside the console? I'm thinking of weight distribution.

[rickuk3]

The plan at the moment is to fit the fuel tank or tanks under the deck, probably 1 forward and 1 central of 100-125 litres each

[Pete7]

Have a look at Tim Ms evolution, a 7m solent with seats at the back.

Pete

[Nos4r2]

Personally I prefer console forward so I can see as much as possible of the next wave/trough(Not that there's a lot of time to react when it's that close).

How would each option affect the balance with the fuel tanks in their respective places?

[Tim M]

As Pete says Evolution has the console at the back and then seats at the front. I much prefer this position for driving. Its also a lot more confortable as you don't feel the waves as much. Only issue is if theres only one or two people on board sitting at the back with not much fuel on board, she does ride with the bow quite high up at displacement speeds (but bear in mind it's quite a heavy console, plus two people and a liferaft mounted hinding the helm seats). So much so I have to stand up to see over the bow. However with a full tank of fuel (tank is near the front) this is less of a problem. Same if you stick a few people in too. I think in a normal leasure rib it looks better to have all the seating behind a large console though....

[Hightower]

I think you also have to remember that's Tim boat is longer and as a result the balance point will be further forward from the transom than your Osprey, also a point to consider!

[jwalker]

With seats in the front, you can see whether your passengers have gone AWOL.

[rickuk3]

Thanks for all the advice
Think I will stick to the norm and keep the console forward. I liked the look of 2 consoles but 1 was wider and would not fit forward
Richard