I always had boats with tillers and thought that the wheel would be great. They are- sometimes. I like the compass location and the ease of standing at the wheel for visibility and not having a tiller sweep you as you dock. Also, it's very easy for others to learn to steer. But, it bites for using my windvane and dividing the cockpit. It appears true that all boats are a compromise! I like mine alot and will have some fun finding a way to make it all work out. I'd put a fancy below deck AP under the tree for my wife but she can be funny about that sort of thing...