A boat autopilot is an excellent piece of equipment onboard vessels. The autopilot reduces the workload of the operator by keeping the boat on course electronically versus hand steering. I have used autopilots extensively on vessels of varying sizes. You’ll want to know 7 considerations for using an autopilot.
Autopilots Help Reduce Fuel Costs
One of the biggest advantages of using an autopilot aboard a vessel is the fact that it helps reduce fuel costs.
Importantly, the autopilot makes small rudder adjustments compared to larger adjustments when steered by hand.
The frequency of the reduced rudder angle saves fuel by creating less drag and holding tighter to a strain line. A straight course line means less deviation from swaying back and forth, thus reducing fuel burn.
Water Damage Is Common With Autopilots
A watercraft is constantly exposed to the elements. The elements include heavy rains, salt in coastal waters, frequent spray while running, and water exposure from washdowns.
Considering the damp environment, the screen is prone to water intrusion, the dials and buttons are at risk of failing from salt, and the electrical connections corrode and separate.
For this reason, it is important to avoid soaking the autopilot controller at the helm. Inspect the functionality of the buttons and peek your head behind the unit to assess the condition of the wiring.
Remain Vigilant When Using A Boats Autopilot
All too often, people become complacent when using an autopilot aboard a vessel. Complacency is a result of failing to maintain a proper watch while navigating.
As a former captain, I drove a multitude of boats on autopilots over long distances. Often, the autopilot would be engaged through the night.
On watch, I maintained a sharp lookout at the waters ahead in addition to monitoring the radar for traffic. Despite being on autopilot, you must remain focused on what’s in front of you.
Look, no matter if you’re on autopilot or not, you’re going to strike objects from time to time, including wood, trash, or other floating or subsurface debris.
However, the biggest concern with remaining on autopilot is colliding with vessels or fixed objects. Unquestionably, you can’t walk away from the helm for extended periods of time, especially when running at a high rate of speed.
Autopilots Are An Excellent Resource For Anglers
As an avid angler, I use the autopilot to my advantage. While trolling, the autopilot is a helpful tool to keep you on a straight course line. Remember, sharp turns often result in tangled lines, which are best avoided.
While trolling, set the autopilot, especially when deploying lines or fighting a fish. However, remember to continue to scan the waters ahead.
Furthermore, autopilots linked with marine navigation units are capable of being programmed to follow contour lines. Contour lines hold fish, so eliminating the need to hand steer on the contour line allows you to focus on fishing.
Never Use The Autopilot In High Traffic Areas
The boat’s autopilot should never be used in high traffic areas. The response time of an autopilot will not be as fast as hand steering.
When you’re faced with navigating high traffic waters, hand steering will force you to keep a close lookout. Additionally, it will allow you to make frequent adjustments around boats.
Remember, you will need to wait until you’re in open waters to engage the autopilot for navigation.
Cover The Autopilot Helm Control Unit When Not In Use
A multitude of elements will cause damage to the autopilot when it is not in use. With that said, it is critical to cover the helm control unit when it is not in use.
First, the sun causes damage to the screen, making it challenging to read a course heading.
Secondly, reducing exposure to rain and moisture will help reduce the likelihood of the wires corroding.
On my boats, I would place two covers over the autopilot. The first is the cover that comes standard with the unit. It secures firmly to the autopilot. The other cover is a standard helm cover. Not only does it enclose the autopilot but also all navigation equipment, the helm gauges, and more.
Without question, the combination of the two significantly reduced the amount of moisture and sunlight penetrating the autopilot.
Don’t Rely Solely On The Autopilot
The autopilot is a piece of equipment to help keep you on a steady course line. However, you can’t rely on the boat’s autopilot at all times.
Undoubtedly, it is imperative to know how to hand steer the boat effectively and safely. Remember, electronics fail. If this is the case, you will have no option but to hand steer and
sometimes over long distances.
Use Your Boats Autopilot
Unfortunately, a lot of boats are fitted with autopilots, but the operators fail to use them. Some boaters are fearful because they have not learned how to use them, while others prefer to hand steer. However, the benefits of using an autopilot under the right circumstances outweigh the cons.
