San Juan 48: This Down East-style yacht has a helm area separated from the rest of the deckhouse, with a doublewide seat and plenty of room for electronics in the glossy teak dash. From the teak footrest to the adjustable wheel, it is an example of ergonomic efficiency with an elegant finish.

Kadey-Krogen 48: This trawler yacht features reversed pilothouse windows to eliminate instrument reflections, combines handrails with counter sea rails, and has two Dutch side doors for access and fresh air. The large chart table has flat stowage drawers underneath, and the settee converts to a berth for the off-watch.

Ocean Alexander 60: This is a true raised pilothouse, separated from the salon for night running. Doors lead to the side decks, the sole is nonslip teak-and-holly, and there are overhead rails for safety. The chart table to port has flat stowage underneath, with more counter space at the skipper’s elbow. The instrument panel has room for a variety of electronics, and the raised settee doubles as a pilot berth.

Sea Ray 540: This sport boat has to balance time under way with time at rest, and it solves the problem with dual helm seats that swivel away from the helm to face starboard, to a lounge — or aft, toward the cockpit entertainment area. Rocker switches are well-protected on the dash, which has twin multifunction electronic displays.

Nordhavn 56MS: Not all inside helms belong to powerboats, and, in addition to an outside station, this motorsailer has an all-weather inside helm with a full-size chart table and drawers for flat-chart stowage. Dutch doors lead to the side decks, where electric winches make easy work of sail trim. Overhead panels contain monitors for ship systems.