This versatile helm bench storage seat for open boats provides both comfortable seating and practical storage space. It comes in two versions: a single (60 cm width) often referred to as “Jolly 4,” suitable for one person, and a double (90 cm width) – “Jolly 2,” which accommodates two people side by side. Both models share the same depth (~48 cm) and seat height (~53 cm with cushion), making them comfortable to sit on and compatible with standard console and helm setups on small boats.
Construction and Materials:
- Fiberglass Body: The seat’s body is made of white fiberglass (glass-reinforced plastic) – a material renowned for its strength and resistance to water and UV rays. This ensures years of use without warping or delamination, even under continuous sun exposure and saltwater spray. The exterior is smooth and easy to clean, which is crucial in marine environments.
- Stainless Hardware: All metal components – the backrest hinges, fasteners, and latches – are constructed from marine-grade stainless steel. This guarantees reliable folding action of the backrest and resistance to corrosion. The backrest locks securely in both forward and reverse positions, thanks to high-quality hinge locks that prevent unwanted flipping or wobbling while underway.
- Cushions: Both the seat and backrest come with thick cushions upholstered in white marine vinyl. This marine-grade upholstery is waterproof, mold-resistant, and UV-stable, and the stitching is designed to resist water intrusion into the foam. The result is a soft, comfortable support that is also wipe-clean and low maintenance.
Functionality:
- Foldable (Dual-Position) Backrest: A key feature is the backrest that can be flipped to either side. In the standard position, it acts as support for sitting facing the helm (towards the bow of the boat). When the boat is stationary or you want to face aft (for example, when supervising a water-skier or watching fishing lines), the backrest can be flipped the opposite way. This effectively turns the unit into a two-directional bench, allowing flexible use of your seating area.
- Storage Locker: Beneath the seat is an integrated storage compartment (locker). The lid of the locker is the seat itself, which lifts up on hinges to reveal an interior space of approximately 37 × 16 × 23 cm (slightly wider for the double version). Here you can stow dry gear: life jackets, ropes, small anchors, tools, or other essentials that you want to keep protected from spray and sun. The opening is broad for easy access, and the compartment is designed to be water-shedding – when the seat is closed, rain or splashes are kept out of the locker.
- Installation: The locker seat is intended for boats with hard decks or RIBs. It bolts securely to the deck or console platform using screws or bolts (typically at the four corners of the base). For the double model (90 cm), it’s recommended to have a flat, sturdy mounting surface since it will bear the weight of two occupants. The single model (60 cm) can fit on narrower bases. Both versions feature pre-molded mounting points or indicated flat areas where you can drill for bolts, ensuring a secure attachment.
Usage and Recommendations:
- Center Console Boats and RIBs: This seat is an ideal solution for open center-console boats, runabouts, or RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats). The single version (60 cm) suits smaller crafts where space is tight – for example, 3–5 meter boats with a central helm, giving the captain a comfortable seat plus integrated gear storage. The double version (90 cm) fits wider boats (around 5–7 m and up), allowing two people to sit at the helm. In both cases, you gain additional storage – an invaluable benefit for small boats with limited compartments.
- Multi-Purpose Seating: Thanks to the reversible backrest, this seat can also function as a rear-facing bench for passengers when you’re anchored or cruising slowly. For instance, if you want to create a social seating area, flip the backrest and passengers can sit facing aft (those on this seat facing those on the stern area of the boat). This increases the versatility of your deck layout without adding extra furniture.
- Convenience on Extended Outings: With the built-in storage, important items remain within reach yet tucked away. On fishing trips, for example, you can keep tackle boxes or bait gear inside to stay dry. On family outings, you can store snacks, drinks, or safety equipment in the locker, keeping the deck clutter-free.
By combining comfort, storage, and adaptability, this boat locker seat is an excellent upgrade to enhance the functionality of your vessel. It eliminates the need for separate deck boxes and uncomfortable bench seats, providing an elegant all-in-one solution for your open boat.


