We have a trad stern with an extra wide hatch so two people can stand at the tiller end while cruising.. There is enough room to service the engine and gearbox easily enough, I still get engine room envy with some cruiser sterns boats.
I haven't seen many cruiser stern boats where rain water hasn't got into the bilge. I'm not a fan of pram hoods, when on the move, up or folded they look unsightly but the dry space they afford when stationary during winter would be useful.