windvanes

[sailchris]

does any one have or have used the neptune windvane and can they offer feedback as to how well it worked.

 

[Ariadne]

No, but I'm considering swaping an Aries for a Hydrovane.

Anybody know the going rate for a second hand Aries?

 

[PhilipH]

why? - advantages/disadvantages of both? - I have to buy in the future - what about other options?

 

[Koeketiene]

We're looking to fit a wind vane selfsteering in the (near) future.

Done a considerable amount of research on the subject, and I've come to the conclusion that servo pendulum's are not for us. (Aries,...)
They tend to take up the entire transom and require lines in the cockpit that lead to your tiller/wheel.

We're going down the auxilirary rudder route - Hydrovane comes well recommended, but is quite expensive. May well have to bite the bullet in the end. Or eBay.
Also negotioting with another Kalik owner (just back from a circumnav) to get his Pacific Wind Pilot.

 

[30boat]

I cannot rate the Monitor highly enough.It's very reliable and simple,all stainless,very simple to set up and you can get it going in a minute.Just drop the watervane down,fit the windvane,two knobs and that's it,and all that's left is adjusting the lines,very simple really.There is now an emergency rudder option available but I haven't checked it ou yet.It steers beautifuly on all points of wind and what can I say,I'm biased I own one.

 

[celandine]

I use a Hydrovane. Can't really fault it: does exactly what it says on the tin; no lines, pullies etc all over the cockpit; operates entirely independantly of main steering, so doubles as emergency rudder; very easy to install (4 bolts) Worth the extra in my opinion.

 

[Guest]

I have a Windpilot which is excellent. The problem I foresee with the Aries, apart from its weight, is that it is adjusted, if I remember correctly, in 6 degree 'clicks'.

6 degrees may sound like a relatively fine adjustment, but remember that that's apparent, not true, wind angle, so could easily equate to a 20 or more degree change in true course. The ability to fine tune the wind angle to a degree or less is vital, IMHO.

 

[fishermantwo]

Check out the windvane forum at;

http://www.cruisenews.net/forum/viewforum.php?f=62

Also have a look at Walt Murrays designs for windvanes and consider making your own. Unfortunately Walt recently past away but his designs are still on the web. There are plans of his you can build for 20 to 30 dollars, or go crazy and double that. If you feel the need to spend more money, consider the Sailormat 700 as well.

 

[Sea Devil]

I started with an Aries which was heavy and required a lot of wind to make it work and great care to trim the sails correctly. Moved up to a Windpilot for an Atlantic crossing and it was a vast improvement. Then changed boats and got a Hydrovane because of having a center cockpit etc... Incredible difference. Wonderful in very light airs from astern which neither of the previous vanes could handle and easy to adjust and when it gets windy works better and better... Got me all the way around. Would always be my vane of choice.

Michael

 

[noswellplease]

Not sure if this is the right place to ask but on the lookout for a Hydrovane or Cape Horn windvne. If you or the guy next door has one for sale would appreciate a shout. Russell UK

 

[Koeketiene]

There's a Q - we're all looking for one of those!

 

[Signed Out]

Recently a Hydrovane that was 2nd hand 10 years and many miles ago went for over a grand on eBay... Scary figures, but wish I could afford one.