Advise on autopilot?

[Stan Linado]

Am finally at a point that I can get an autopilot so that solo sailing will not be quite so frantic. I sail a Catalina 25 tall rig with a wing keel. I have narrowed the choice down to Raymarine ST1000 or a Simrad TP10. I would appreciate any feedback. Thanks.

 

[Stu Jackson]

You really should consider the ST2000, it's more powerful & faster. Just about everyone with anything other than a 22 footer will suggest that consideration.

Ask here, too, if you haven't discovered these great guys: http://www.catalina-capri-25s.org/forum/forum.asp?FORUM_ID=3

 

[CaptDon01]

Ditto on the ST2000. We use our autopilot a LOT! I found in a following sea condition, even in the tight course mode, the ST1000 couldn't keep up and soon the autopilot was slamming full port to starboard and the boat quickly was out of control. The ST2000 works GREAT because it's about twice as fast reacting, so when it senses a change, it can respond and keep the boat under control Also, being a recirculating ball drive, I believe it uses less power. Save your money up and get the ST2000. Couple that up with a wireless remote that lets you steer the boat from anywhere and it's an unbelievable set-up!

Don

 

[jimg]

I have had a Simrad TP10 on a C27 for at least 10 years, and it has worked perfectly. Downwind with large following swell and blowing like stink (with spinnaker up) was the only time it had trouble keeping up and we decided to hand steer. We were doublehanded and kind of busy.