[C320-list] Simulated Drunken Sailor Using Autopilot

[Robert E. Sloat]

Brian-One further comment on your autopilot.  You can also set it to hold a 
constant apparent wind angle.  If there are wind shifts or varying true wind 
strength you will observe a lot of course changes by the autopilot to keep 
the steady apparent wind angle.  With wind shifts and the boat changing 
headings to keep the steady wing angle often you look like a DUI sailor and 
others sailing around you often are trying to figure out your next move. 
The key in this mode is to be very alert to the other traffic so as to not 
cause confusion on the autopilot's actions in this mode.

Check out the Canadian equivalent to our Inland Navigation Rule 8 (the same 
as International Rule 8) which for action to avoid collision requires action 
to be positive and in ample time all with the observance of good seamanship. 
This means in a practical sense to get back to manual or correct the 
autopilot to make those positive moves in ample time for all situations 
where you have to hold a constant course or change to give way.  (My 
Captain's license is speaking here.)

If in open water with little traffic, the constant apparent wind angle 
autopilot setting is great for learning how to optimize you sail adjustment 
for top speed.

Bob Sloat
Savannah Hull 894

---- Original Message ----- 
From: "Amirault Family - S&B" <amiraults at sympatico.ca>
To: <c320-list at lists.catalina320.com>
Sent: Saturday, January 24, 2009 11:23 AM
Subject: Re: [C320-list] No Additional cockpit winches -Use Autopilot


> All:
>
>
>
> Bear has the ST4000. Your responses suggest that the process of using it 
> to
> helm the tacks is a simple one. The supplied suggested settings are a
> godsend. If winter ever releases Ottawa I will give this a whirl in the
> spring. I will review the autopilot's current settings as a start, and 
> then
> motor the boat sails-down and simulate tacking with directions of travel
> based on current wind direction as indicated by the wind-o-meter. This
> should let me get the hang of the process without having to actually be
> distracted by sail manipulation. With the process confirmed I can try it
> sails up with the crew as standby in case all falls apart.
>
>
>
> What could be simpler? This spring. New electrics. Tacking made easier. 
> Life
> just gets better.
>
>
>
> Regards;
>
>
>
> Brian Amirault
>
> 797 Waltzing Bear, too
>