MrJim
Senior Member
- Joined
- Jan 23, 2015
- Messages
- 206
- Location
- USA
- Vessel Name
- Irish Miss
- Vessel Make
- Mainship 30 Pilot Rum Runner Classic
I know nothing about autopilots other than I used them a few times on some sailboats I've chartered. Although an autopilot is on my list of "must-haves" on my next boat, the boat I'm probably going to buy doesn't have one. The boat is a Mainship Pilot 30 with hydraulic Seastar steering. Intended use is for offshore fishing/trolling at 3 to 6 knots, and for some general ICW cruising.
Can anyone give me an idea of what it would take (cost, ease of installation) to install one? Are they relatively easy to install for someone with average amateur boat maintenance abilities, or should I have a pro do the installation (preferred)? Any recommendations on brand/model? Nothing extravagant please, I just want a good basic system that will hold a steady course while I bait a hook or mix a cocktail (keeping my eyes on the road ahead, of course!). Although, the ability to enter waypoints would be a nice extra.
Thanks!
Can anyone give me an idea of what it would take (cost, ease of installation) to install one? Are they relatively easy to install for someone with average amateur boat maintenance abilities, or should I have a pro do the installation (preferred)? Any recommendations on brand/model? Nothing extravagant please, I just want a good basic system that will hold a steady course while I bait a hook or mix a cocktail (keeping my eyes on the road ahead, of course!). Although, the ability to enter waypoints would be a nice extra.
Thanks!