You spend 90% of your time at the helm. Why settle for a cracked vinyl seat or a sticky plastic steering wheel?
Refreshing the helm station is one of the easiest ways to make an older boat feel new again. Here are the top upgrades for the captain.
1. The Throne: Captain's Chairs
Comfort depends on support. Cheap low-back seats dig into your spine during choppy rides.
- The Upgrade: Look for "High Back" seats with armrests. Brands like Tempress and Todd offer rotationally molded shells that won't rot, wrapped in marine-grade vinyl.
- The Mount: Don't forget the hardware. If you are fishing, a Swivel is mandatory. If you have a co-captain of a different height, a Seat Slide is a marriage-saver.
Shop Helm Seats & Captain's Chairs
2. The Wheel: Stainless Steel "Destroyer" Style
Old plastic wheels degrade under UV light, becoming sticky and gross to hold. The pro move is upgrading to a Stainless Steel Steering Wheel.
Often called "Destroyer Wheels," these polished stainless units are indestructible. For extra grip (and cold weather comfort), look for models with a foam or polyurethane grip over the steel rim. Most feature a standard "3/4-inch Tapered Keyway" fit, making them universal for most Teleflex and SeaStar helms.
Browse Stainless & Composite Steering Wheels
3. Leaning Posts: The Center Console Essential
If you are running a center console, a chair might be the wrong choice. A Leaning Post allows you to stand comfortably while absorbing shock through your knees—crucial for offshore runs.
Many aftermarket leaning posts now come with built-in rod holders and cooler storage underneath, maximizing your deck space.
