Article by Jessica Thomson
Captain's chairs, commonly called helm seats, are used on a centre console or fly bridge. Market is flooded with different types of these chairs depending upon the cost and quality. Some of the most luxurious and comfortable chairs come with advanced characteristics such as cushions that are extra thick and providing immense comfort, excellent pedestals, footrests and head rests, padded armrests on aluminium brackets and UV stabilized polyethylene structure.
Commonly, these pedestals have slippery mechanisms which allow the captain to modify the height of the boat seat according to his size and height. Often, these seats come with leather covers and brass details. Moreover, in some seats, there is added instrumentation in the armrests or a personal stereo for headrest.
Over the past few years, some chairs have been referred to as captain's chairs; however, their armrests and back supports do not come with the required vertical supports. As these chairs have some material between the supports, they are also called the director's chair. The absence of correct definition for different types of chairs has led to major confusion between them. Further, many people label these chairs as exercise equipment which are used mainly for elevating the core strength on the abdominal areas via abs exercises.
The price of boat seats depends upon the fabric used in making it. The quality of craftsmanship adds to the price of these chairs; however, according to many sport lovers, this is an extra expenditure. A wide range of prices reflects the use of different woods used for making these seats. In fact, the fabric used for the cushion also affects the overall cost of seats.
As these seats can be custom designed or manufactured, it is up to the boat owner to select the fabric, style and colour. While choosing the fabric, always buy one that stands up to harsh sunlight and salty water. Your local boat products' manufacturer or supplier will help you in selecting the right material for your boat seats. Many boat seats come in a combination of wood and steel, only steel, or cushioned, and some of these seats are hard while others are soft. These seats come without or with armrests, some are padded while others are not. They come in many designs which are displayed by the various internet boat suppliers and catalogues.