Hello George With the engines all the way aft in a design like the Manta, there are basically three choices for engine access, ie. from the interior of the vessel, from on deck, and from outside. Since we have a watertight bulkhead between the engine compartment and the interior, we didn't want to compromise that, also crawling across the berth into the engine room did not seem very appealing. Access from on deck is an option, but requires a ladder down into the engine space and you end up crouching on top or beside the engine in an enclosed stuffy dark compartment. We felt hinging the stairway and having the ability to walk into the engine room with standing headroom was a much better option. This offers outstanding access to all sides of the engine and excellent ventilation and light, without having to crouch and crawl. The engine in its entirety could literally be pulled out through this access. Some ask the question how it is when out to sea, I have personally had the boat lying a hull in 4-5' seas and accessed the engines without feeling jeopardized or with any water ingress. Needless to say in more severe conditions keeping the bow into waves or a sea anchor might be needed but this is probably true no matter what kind of access one has. Our owners thus far seem to be very pleased with this arrangement. The current base price with standard equipment for the Manta 44 is $419,950. Sales have been quite good with fifteen sold thus far with five delivered. We will be displaying at the Miami boat show, as well as the upcoming Stuart Fl. Trawler Fest and Palm Beach boat shows.