What Perry did with that Valiant layout was really to create some interesting space below decks. You certainly shouldn't suggest that layout was that flawed -- enough Valliant's have gone around the world "out-of-the-box".

As for out-of-cockpit companionways, remember the old Swan's. They had the companionway under the middle of boom on coach roof. You had to go down a very steep ladder a LONG way down on a pitching boat.

http://bermudaraceadmin.com/gallery/2012_start/2012%20Bermuda%20start%20selected/images/IMG_257.jpg

I always mused that it was very Teutonic -- it kept those who were afraid from seeking the comfort of the cabin in very nasty weather ;^))).

Seriously, I really dislike those plans and layouts a lot.