6.0 OPERATING HINTS
Unlike sailing yachts, power vessels do not
generally suffer with violent changes in trim,
and thus, provided the operating instructions
are carefully followed, extremely good course
holding performance will result in all weather
conditions.
Sailing yachts are very different since in
gusting wind conditions violent changes in trim
often occur. When a yacht is sailing badly out
of balance, sudden gusts will generally cause it
to luff violently to windward. When hand
steering, the tendency is overcome by applying
sufficient weather helm to maintain the original
heading. The
automatic
weather helm compensation circuit however, is
intended only to take account of the gradual
changes
in
standing
helm
that typically occur
when passage making due to changing wind
conditions.
When a sudden change in helm balance
occurs the automatic compensation circuit will
take approximately one minute to restore the
original heading. In gusty conditions the course
will tend to meander particularly if the sails are
badly balanced. Significant improvement to
course keeping can be obtained by ensuring
that sail balance is maintained.
Bear in mind the following important points.
00
the yacht to heel
Ease the mainsheet traveller to leeward to
reduce heeling and weather helm.
If necessary reef the mainsail a little early.
It is also worth mentionina the more obvious
and that is that an autopilot cannot anticipate.
Sailing downwind in breaking seas needs
particular care.
One should avoid sailing under autopilot
when the
dead astern. Ideally, the wind
should be brought at least 30 degrees towards
the beam, and in breaking seas it is often better
to remove the mainsail altogether and to sail
under boomed out
alone.
Providing you ensure that your vessel is
properly canvassed for the prevailing
conditions, your
5000 will be capable
to sailing you through gale force winds.
Moreover, it is at times like this that it will
endear itself most of all by leaving you fresh
and alert to sail in safety.
Passage making under automatic pilot is a
wonderful experience that can easily lead you
into the temptation of relaxing permanent
watch-keeping. This must be avoided however
clear the sea ahead may appear to be.
Remember, a large ship can cover two miles in
five minutes just the time it takes to brew a
cup of coffee!
