The cockpit on a modern boat often has vastly better ergonomics than her traditional sister. Angled seat backs are a boon as are coamings wide enough to sit on and steer at the same time.

Decent cockpit drains are the norm, rather than the exception on a modern boat. Sure, some boats are just marina cruisers, with vast expanses of slippery gel coat and no handholds.

Take a look at the mid 1980's boats. The worst excesses of the IOR Rule are behind us, strength of construction is still very important. Below decks, the boat is expected to sleep her crew at sea and in harbour. On deck, the layouts are just about perfect.