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Autopilot
– The autopilot is the Raymarine instrument chart plotter (see photo).
To engage the
Autopilot simply press the “Auto” button on the controller. To disengage press the “Standby” button
. If
the steering wheel ‘locks up’ on you it is likely that the “Auto” button got pressed accidentally.
Please remember to stay situationally aware while using the autopilot, it cannot see logs, rocks or
other boats
.
Automatic Identification System (AIS)
–
Chinook is equipped with an automatic tracking system
device new in 2019. AIS is intended to assist a vessel’s officer with collision avoidance and allow
maritime authorities to track and monitor vessel movements. Vessels fitted with AIS transceivers can be
tracked by AIS base stations located along coast lines and some satellites. The AIS is an added safety
feature for coordinating search and rescue and also allows San Juan Sailing to provide faster assistance in
case of unplanned maintenance issues as well as alert San Juan Sailing of Chinook’s return approach.
Vessels with AIS can be viewed in real-time through mobile device apps and websites like
that will reveal vessel name, course, speed, track, and other information. The
navigation system has integrated AIS, so you can also select vessels from the touch screen for information.
Depth Sounder
–
The Depth sounder and knot meter are on the same Raymarine controller above the
chart plotter (see photo).
The digital depth sounder will not give accurate readings beyond 400’.
In
deeper water, the sensitivity on the unit increases as the transducer tries to get some reading
back. Consequently, when you are in deep water, false readings caused by currents, changes in water
temperature, fish, etc. are common. These false readings often report very shallow water, so knowing you
are in deep water will help prevent panic attacks. Also, if the word DEPTH is blinking on and off it means
the unit is not getting a return signal (i.e. you are in very deep water). The depth showing on the sounder is
being measured from the transducer (about 12” under true water level) so the water under the boat is really
a bit deeper than the reading. But, we strongly recommend leaving 10-12 feet of water under the boat.
***We do not recommend using the
alarm
. Experience in the islands tells us that it goes off at the wrong
time – usually the middle of the night as a seal or fish passes underneath.
Knot Meter
– The knot meter and depth sounder are on the same Raymarine controller above the chart
plotter(see photo). If the digital knot meter shows a reading of “0.00” while underway, the impeller is most
likely clogged. Sometimes it will clear itself; wakes from big powerboats are good for this. You can also
try clearing it by traveling in reverse. The instrument transponders are under the forward end of the saloon
just port of the mast. You can remove the impeller to clear it but only if you are experienced in such
things. If needed, the SOG (speed over ground) reading on the chart plotter will work as a standby knot
meter.
Wind Instruments
– Wind speed and direction are displayed on the middle Raymarine controller sbsove
the chart plotter (see photo). Pressing the “True/App” button switches between True and Apparent wind
readings.
