How to Choose the Right Autopilot for Your Boat

It is fairly common knowledge in the maritime community that one of the greatest additions to any boating crew is the autopilot system. It is always there and ready to serve so that the captain, first mate, and the rest of the crew can focus on other important things. However, though there are plenty of autopilot systems out there and in order to get the most of you yours, you have to buy the one that is right for your boat. Here are some things to consider when shopping.

First off, you need to consider how much you are going to be using your autopilot. If you only plan on doing a little day-sailing from time to time, then you will need a different system than if you are going to sail around the globe. This is important for two reasons. Your load size will be different because of all the supplies you will or won’t be carrying. Plus, if you are going on a long voyage, then the system will be working a lot harder than if you are just taking the boat out for a day.

That being said, you also need to buy an autopilot system that is compatible with your type of steering system. If your boat has hydraulic steering, then you will want a hydraulic autopilot. If you have a sailboat that uses cable steering, you may want a linear or rotary drive. A linear will be installed below deck and must have a sturdy mounting that will be able to take a great deal of pressure. A rotary drive won’t need as sturdy of a mounting and may not need to be installed below deck. However, the linear is more reliable since if your cable steering goes out you will still stay on course, giving you time to fix the steering while still on your way. This isn’t so with the rotary drive. If you lose steering, you lose your autopilot.

Some important features for any autopilot system to have are a course tracker and an auto-compensation for the various elements of the wind and current. These things can nudge your boat off course, but if you can track your course then your autopilot can make some adjustments when needed. Or, you can go all out and get a GPS feature included with your system so that the compensations can be made with pinpoint accuracy.

The great thing about autopilots is that they all work pretty well, even the inexpensive ones. But you still have to have the right one for your boat. So keep these things in mind when you are shopping around and don’t be afraid to ask for assistance from the store’s staff. There are usually other bonus features that can help, but be sure that the unit you buy at least has the features mentioned earlier. Do that and your time on the water will be much more enjoyable and you will have a new best friend in your crew.