What are the most important considerations when choosing a marine autopilot?

2 Type of navigation

The next thing to consider is the type and frequency of navigation you do, as this will influence the features and capabilities of the marine autopilot you need. For example, if you mainly do coastal cruising or fishing, you may need a basic marine autopilot that can follow a compass heading or a waypoint, and has a simple user interface and display. If you do offshore sailing or long-distance voyaging, you may need a more advanced marine autopilot that can integrate with other instruments and systems, such as wind sensors, radar, AIS, and chartplotters, and has a more sophisticated user interface and display. You should also consider the weather and sea conditions you encounter, as these factors affect the reliability and durability of the marine autopilot.

3 Type of installation

The third thing to consider is the type and ease of installation of the marine autopilot, as this will affect the time and cost of setting up and configuring the device. For example, some marine autopilots are designed to be plug-and-play, meaning that they can be easily connected to the existing steering system and power source, and require minimal calibration and adjustment. Others may require more extensive wiring, mounting, and tuning, and may need professional installation and service. You should also consider the space and layout of your vessel, as these factors affect the placement and accessibility of the marine autopilot components.

4 Type of budget

The fourth thing to consider is the type and amount of budget you have for the marine autopilot, as this will limit the options and quality of the device you can afford. For example, a low-budget marine autopilot may have fewer features and functions, lower performance and accuracy, and lower reliability and durability. A high-budget marine autopilot may have more features and functions, higher performance and accuracy, and higher reliability and durability. You should also consider the ongoing costs of maintenance, repair, and upgrade of the marine autopilot, as these factors affect the total cost of ownership and operation of the device.

5 Type of preference

The fifth thing to consider is the type and level of preference you have for the marine autopilot, as this will reflect your personal taste and style of boating. For example, some boaters may prefer a simple and intuitive marine autopilot that does not require much attention or intervention, and that blends in with the rest of the cockpit. Others may prefer a complex and customizable marine autopilot that allows them to fine-tune and monitor every aspect of the steering, and that stands out with a flashy design and display. You should also consider the feedback and reviews of other boaters who have used the marine autopilot you are interested in, as these factors may reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the device.

6 Type of comparison

The sixth thing to consider is the type and quality of comparison you do between the different marine autopilots available on the market, as this will help you make an informed and confident decision. For example, you should compare the specifications, features, functions, performance, reliability, compatibility, cost, and user-friendliness of the marine autopilots you are considering, and weigh the pros and cons of each one. You should also compare the warranties, guarantees, and support services of the marine autopilot manufacturers and distributors, and check their reputation and credibility. You should also compare the installation, maintenance, and upgrade options and requirements of the marine autopilots you are considering, and assess their feasibility and affordability.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?