In a lifeboat, thwarts and side-seats should be positioned as low as possible to enhance stability and safety. Placing the thwarts and side-seats lower in the boat lowers the center of gravity, which is crucial for maintaining balance, especially in rough seas. A lower center of gravity helps prevent the lifeboat from capsizing and ensures that passengers can safely remain seated without risking a fall overboard.
This arrangement also allows for better access to the lifeboat's equipment and can improve the overall structural integrity of the lifeboat, as the forces acting on it during operation are better distributed. Moreover, positioning seats low helps the crew and passengers maintain a secure hold on the lifeboat in turbulent conditions.
Other positions, like having the seats as high as possible or in the middle, could lead to an unstable vessel, increasing the risk of capsizing or accidents during a rescue operation. Keeping the design practical and focused on safety is essential in lifeboat construction and usage.