Sven Yrvindvideo
Adjustable Fins Replace the Rudder.
October 19, 2026 · 4 min · 6K views
What this video covers
Sven Yrvind designs a steering system for his boat, Uru Wind, that replaces a traditional rudder with adjustable fins.0:06 These fins serve multiple functions, acting as both steering surfaces and lateral resistance to balance the vessel.0:12 By adjusting the vertical position of the fins, the sailor alters the force generated to steer the boat without an autopilot or wind-vane self-steering gear.0:44 A centerboard provides additional lateral area, which can be shifted fore or aft to further tune the boat's balance.1:12 The mechanism operates like a gate, allowing the fins to be lifted, rotated, and lowered on the opposite side.2:13 This configuration aims to improve performance when sailing hard on the wind, particularly during the planned voyage to Dunedin.2:33 Yrvind intends to use these adjustments to maintain a close-hauled course against adverse winds near the equator and in heavy weather conditions similar to those encountered between Ireland and Newfoundland in 1989.2:54
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