Several thoughts on that one K2 re. cockpit/traveler location...
Not sure whether Moderators would recommend a different thread at this point or not, but will share a few thoughts for now... guess this is all relates to boat shopping...
Much depends on what kind of boat usage you plan on...
If I just want to go for an afternoon sail, for example, or a race, a tiller is by far preferable, as it allows me to feel the boat, which hugely increases the joy factor. I don't really like wheels much (another item on the compromise list). Personal preference.
Offshore and long distances are a different story as the boat would mostly be self-steering whether by tiller or wheel-based system anyway.
So many variables... length of cockpit, location and number of winches... width/type of traveller... safety... how important it is to have company...but mostly personal preference.
If my boat had a wheel, the traveller would go smack in front of it. I would not feel trapped because I sit at the side of the wheel the majority of the time, as opposed to 'behind' the wheel. For this reason, a big wheel would be more desirable. More comfortable/better ergonomics, more $.
I look for cockpit designs where the primaries are set aft somewhat - i.e. easily reachable from the side of the helm for single handing. Ideally 2 sets of winches either side. A winch forward allows for crew to trim the headsail without sitting twisted, while the aft winch also provides the option for spin sheets to be controlled from the helm. Again, in shopping for a boat this is another compromise item - 'changeable-more-holes-more-money' type thing... be it extra winches... or for bigger winches for easier handling of less desirable big headsails...
If I had a tiller and a smallish cockpit, I'd be re-locating the cabin top traveller to the bridge deck for ease of single handing.
With a long cockpit and tiller, the traveller would go right in front of the helm, leaving room for crew to move around comfortably forward of the helm.
The big downside with a small cockpit + tiller combo becomes painfully apparent with crew or passengers when tacking frequently... I'm hearing the echo of a friend's familiar lament... "I do not like sailing with my husband cuz there's nowhere for me to sit" !!! Sniff. Seems like a cryin' shame...
I hope this can be of some help in your shopping adventures, K2
Lynn