Sailing Umavideo
We can't decide how to steer our boat | Step 443
6 June 2025 · 38 min · 137K views
What this video covers
The crew of the 40-foot sailboat Uma is evaluating whether to replace their cockpit helm with a tiller system during an ongoing refit.2:36 The decision centers on simplifying the steering geometry, as the current helm requires complex cable, pulley, and quadrant arrangements that create friction and limit cockpit space.14:33 By removing the helm, the crew could connect an electronic autopilot and a wind vane directly to the rudder shaft, potentially increasing the efficiency of both systems.14:43 The transition to twin Oceanvolt electric motors also influences the choice, as the boat will be maneuvered similarly to a catamaran, reducing the need for traditional helm-based steering during docking.13:44 Challenges include maintaining mechanical advantage for manual steering, finding ergonomic mounting positions for throttles and engine controls, and ensuring visibility of navigation screens from the protected Dodger area.6:22 The crew is weighing the simplicity of a tiller against the familiarity and convenience of a helm for long-term offshore sailing.
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