Delfin
Grand Vizier
- Joined
- Jan 20, 2010
- Messages
- 3,850
I agree - I use an autopilot a lot where precision steering is important.
The autopilot has nothing to do with accident.
Peter
Even when navigating a course to a destination I know by heart I always slave steering to a course line on Coastal Explorer that avoids all fixed hazards. Then, my job is to just to stand watch and adjust to non fixed hazards. With a lot of current in our area, the autopilot seeking to stay on course may steer 20 deg off the rhumb line, but my attention can be focused on what lies ahead, and noting that the boat is staying on the course line.
Based solely on a post on SA, I understand the boat was steering an insanely risky course while Capt. Disaster was below. Given his incompetence, it's hard to see why he still has a CG license, if he does. The fault for the loss appears to be solely on his shoulders.