If you have to motor great distances or want a reliable crew member Where I live it is virtually a required item and would recommend getting one. Imagine having to hold the tiller for 10-14 hours a day going north from Seattle to Desolation Sound for 3-4 days. No fun. For 10 years, the Autohelm 800h model has served well. It is very simple and basic. It works in most conditions in the Puget Sound, light to heavy weather. Does not work well when sailing, but I prefer to have hand on tiller. I would like additonal features such as having a NEMA interface to integrate with my GPS & Nobeltec. I will think about upgrading when mine breaks.
