Ultrasonic wind masthead transducer

[Hayden Watson]

I've never had a problem with using an autopilot that does not point to wind but only a compass course to single hand. Never even felt it would be a "nice to have"....

Now, having an autopilot that controlled by wind for near shore sailing, that's a different issue.

dj

Yep. In our water, with all of the islands and meandering channels, the one thing that is consistent is that the wind direction is not consistent. I let the AP steer to the wind and then change the set wind angle and trim the sails as needed to go in the direction I want to go.

 

[dLj]

Yep. In our water, with all of the islands and meandering channels, the one thing that is consistent is that the wind direction is not consistent. I let the AP steer to the wind and then change the set wind angle and trim the sails as needed to go in the direction I want to go.

Yes, when I was sailing in the San Juan Islands years ago, that clearly would be a VERY nice to have!

dj

 

[Davidasailor26]

For anyone with an ultrasonic sensor - I’m curious if spider webs are a problem at all. Our town has *lots* of spiders and they foul the wind vane a couple times each season. Usually motoring into a stiff breeze or rolling around in a powerboat wake is enough to shake that loose. But I’m worried about an ultrasonic sensor just getting all clogged up with webs and not having any moving parts to help clear them out.

 

[jssailem]

No idea about the affect on Ultra sonic sensors. I imagine it would be minimal. Unless they band together, build a shelter and create a diversion for the winds.

I know the buggers can use infrared sensor to switch on the house flood lights to attract lunch. They leave a video trail.

 

[Bob S]

I have an Airmar Weather Station, not sure what model, atop my mast. it was on my boat when I bought her in 2017. I have not had any problems with it.