https://forums.oceancruisingclub.org/messages.aspx?TopicID=2376 OCC Forums - Technical, Gear, and Maintenance - Windvane vs. 2nd Below deck autopilot - Messages en-us http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Jitbit AspNetForum Sun, 12 Jul 2026 11:22:18 GMT Sun, 12 Jul 2026 11:22:18 GMT https://forums.oceancruisingclub.org/messages.aspx?TopicID=2376 I can tell you what we did: (and it is a similar, but not so potent, dilemma for cruising couples):
We have a wind vane (Monitor) which, over the years, has become back-up (say lightning strike) to our very much loved below decks auto-pilot which is accurate, simple, quiet, reliable and easy on the amps.
For a higher latitude Atlantic crossing, I just bought the same auto-pilot. I replaced my 20+ yo old one with the new and put the old, but still working, auto-pilot in storage as spares. (later that year, the autopilot manufacturer closed its doors).
I would consider what I call a “wheel” (above deck) pilot, but I would need convincing that they could handle boisterous conditions. My last experience with those was 20-30 years ago and the ones I knew had a hard time (or would burn out) in open water when the winds got above ~~20 knots or so.
If world-traveling in remote areas, the wind vane probably makes the most sense as it is so independent and some could “take the place” of a rudder/steering if steering was lost somehow. If going that route, get some significant sea miles under your belt with the vane as they do have a learning curve and can be fussy.
Let us know what you decide.
My best, Dick Stevenson, s/v Alchemy]]> Sun, 12 Jul 2026 11:22:18 GMT https://forums.oceancruisingclub.org/messages.aspx?TopicID=2376 Sun, 12 Jul 2026 00:59:25 GMT