Value of an Autopilot

bridma · Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 3:46 pm Post subject: Value of an Autopilot

I don't have one, but it sure looks like the way to go. Doesn't it worry you that you turn your back to put the kettle on or take a wizz, then bang, you found the only log around for a 100 miles?

Martin.

ken35216 · Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 3:52 pm Post subject:

I used one going around the entire coast of Florida and loved it. I don't plan on using it while going over 6kts.

Will-C · Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 4:30 pm Post subject: Value of an Autopilot

If you are using a handheld remote for control of your autopilot, make sure you carry replacement batteries. It's a sad day Sad

when your favorite boat toy does not function. In four years the batteries are the only thing that failed. We use it a lot. Every time we use the boat.
D.D.

Captains Cat · Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 4:30 pm Post subject: Re: Value of an Autopilot

journey on · Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 4:45 pm Post subject:

Charlie, when there are things in the water is when you should use the autopilot. When we took Our Journey up to Alaska, using the autopilot allowed us to keep a good lookout for logs, seaweed, whales and most importantly fishing nets.

One corollary is that you have to slow down to where you can react if you see danger. Met a powerboat in Port Hardy getting the outdrive replaced because they were going too fast to see what was ahead. Saw them 2 weeks later, making up for lost time, going like stink. They didn't learn.

That's the great point about an autopilot. It steers the boat whilst you navigate and keep a lookout. It can even compensate for current. And, to a point it does that steering better than a human can, cause it's always on the job and it's mind doesn't wander.

On Journey On, when the swells get too large and the boat starts sliding around, that's when I have to hand steer.

Boris

El and Bill · Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 4:53 pm Post subject:

In our years of cruising, especially along the Inside Passage and the Pacific NW, we saw the results of folks who did not heed your admonitions, Boris. Some set an autopilot, and went below to have breakfast. Others, set the auto to read a book.

Used properly, an autopilot is great -- it allows you to watch for sunken logs, and scan the radar or gps charts -- but if your mind wanders, or you use it to fix a drink or meal and your eyes are off the water, like you say, Boris, it is a DANGER. Use with discretion.

NORO LIM · Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 5:31 pm Post subject:

As I and others have noted before, if you've ever had to maintain a course and a lookout in a dense fog, you will really understand the value of an autopilot.

Captains Cat · Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 6:24 pm Post subject:

"That's the great point about an autopilot. It steers the boat whilst you navigate and keep a lookout. It can even compensate for current. And, to a point it does that steering better than a human can, cause it's always on the job and it's mind doesn't wander. "

Yes, properly integrated with a chart plotter, it can steer a route, notifying you of waypoints and programmed turns, asking permission to make them when the time comes, all the time making corrections for currents and wind effects, especially important at hull speed!

I didn't mean not to use it when some stuff is in the water but, if your course is filled with a lot of obstructions, etc., you should have the helm in your hands, not constantly overriding the AP.

Charlie

El and Bill · Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 6:24 pm Post subject:

And, Bill, hopefully slow speed and a good radar and marine radio

NORO LIM · Posted: Fri May 03, 2013 8:48 pm Post subject: