New Member - New Boat ?

[VintageGuy]

Thanks for all your comments! I emailed the seller a couple of days ago - and has yet to get back to me. Why do people put ads on CL and then not respond to emails about their item? :)

I am going to try and go look at a few local V20's to get a feel for the cockpit/cuddy size and layout this weekend. The only hesitation I have about the V20 is that the freeboard seems to be lower than what I'm used to. My last boat had such a high freeboard that it was very comfortable to stand and pilot or simply lean my rear on the edge of the helmsmans chair while piloting (I'm 6'2"). Can any of you V20 owners tell me if you find yourself trying to stand while under way or sit on the top of the BACK of your helmsmans seat to gain some height?

[nipper]

I am only 5'8" and I find myself standing a lot when driving. I use an extra boat cushion or two on the seating portion of the helm seat to be able to look over, rather than through, the windshield. Freeboard is somewhat low on the V20 compared to more leisure (non-fishing) oriented boats, especially with the raised deck on the later self bailing (out thru-hull fittings rather than into the bilge) models.

[RWilson2526]

I'm 6'0" and when sitting in the helm chair I am definitely looking through all windshield. I am definitely standing when around docks or looking for things in the water. Just on a side note I try not to stand if I dont feel that I have to. I was in some pretty heavy chop one day, got distracted for a minute and came about an inch away from busting my forehead wide open on the top of the windshield.

When fishing in the back I would say the gunwhale comes to just under my crotch. Never really felt like I was going to fall out or anything like that.

[Blue_Runner]

I'm 6'0 as well and fully seated I'm looking through the top part of the windshield. Sidding on a throw cushion I'm looking just over.

Standing is ok but the wheel is low. If you had tilt steering it might help a little with the standing while driving.

[garbubba]

One of my favorite features of the V is the high gunnels, I've had mine padded & it hits just above the knee (I'm 6'1"). When snapper fishing in 4' seas it's nice to have that between you & the briney deep.
I replaced the seat with a Todd adjustable, so I can sit, or stand, or turn the seat around & slide it back.

Doug

[inaforty]

Here is a pottie that has pump out fitting.
http://www.go2marine.com/product.do?no=85492F

However emptying the base is easier and cheaper.