Aft cockpit models have an open area at the rear where the helm is situated, with the accomodation taking up the front two thirds of the boat. The aft cockpit is popular because of the open area that is great for fishing from, for enjoying a nice meal or spending time with friends.

The centre cockpit model has the helm position in the raised saloon area which is roughly in the middle third of the boat's length. Usually, these boats have a solid sliding roof allowing everyone to enjoy the sun from the comfort of the sofa while taking in the scenery from the elevated position. The sliding roof also has the advantage of significantly lowering the airdraft of the boat, allowing it pass under low bridges.

Dual steer models are similar in some ways to the Aft Cockpit design, but with an aft cabin underneath the aft deck. This means that the aft deck area is at a high level giving excellent views and making manouvering the boat easier. There is often also a second helm position in the saloon, which is itself usually at a fairly high level.

Forward steer models usually have the accomodation over one single low-level floor area. The helm position is situated inside the front cabin windows, giving good views of the bow but making visibility of the stern more difficult. These vessels often have quite low airdraft, making passage through low bridges easier.