Sailing Umavideo
We can't decide how to steer our boat | Step 443
June 6, 2025 · 38 min · 137K views
What this video covers
Dan and Kika of the Pearson Invicta Uma face a cockpit layout decision that has stalled their refit: whether to reinstall the existing wheel helm or switch to a tiller. The helm sits at the forward end of the cockpit — unusual placement that gave easy access to winches and the mainsheet — but the newly built dodger makes climbing around a reinstalled wheel awkward every time someone moves through the cockpit.1:40 A tiller would eliminate the steering cables, quadrant, and associated friction, letting the wind vane and electronic autopilot work more efficiently and use less power.14:53 Dan's main concern was mechanical disadvantage on a boat Uma's size; the emergency tiller they once used was short and manageable, and a 1.8-meter arm would provide far more leverage.7:37 Both acknowledge they rarely hand-steer offshore — the wind vane handled the entire North Atlantic crossing — and the planned dual Ocean Volts electric drives mean docking will work like a catamaran, reducing reliance on the helm for close-quarters maneuvering.12:39 The discussion extends to throttle placement, screen positioning for the Ocean Volts displays, and ergonomics for two crew of different heights.19:33 No final decision is reached; the episode ends mid-deliberation on throttle mounting locations.37:40
More from Sailing Uma
From Sailing Uma — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.