used sailboat windvane

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If you're looking for used sailing equipment for sale, here's where to find it! Just a few points first though:

1. Please contact the seller directly  - not  Sailboat-Cruising.com . We play no part in the transaction - we've done our bit in getting the two of you together!

2. Remember 'Caveat Emptor'!  Which is a Latin phrase with important legal significance -  'Let the buyer beware'!

3. Sailboat-Cruising.com  must make a disclaimer at this point, in as much as this is a free service intended solely to put a seller and a potential buyer in contact.  Sailboat-Cruising.com  accepts no liability whatsoever in connection with this free service.

Used Sailing Equipment for Sale (latest listing first):

But if you're looking to sell used boating accessories rather than browse through the list of used sailing equipment, Sellers - click here...

Otherwise, here's the current list of used sailing equipment for sale, newest submissions at the top:

Lewmar Rotary Sprocket Drive

• Seller:  Wayne Macfarlane
• Location: Pretoria, South Africa
• Date:  March 24

I have an unused spare Lewmar 89300002 Rotary 1- 4hp 12V 5-8P 9T electric drive motor that would be controlled by the auto pilot for sale. It was purchased brand new and never used or installed, it is still in it's original box. This is the website for the unit https://www.lewmar.com/content/rotary-sprocket-drives.

Burke - Bosuns Chair

• Seller:  Rob
• Location: Menai, New South Wales, Australia
• Date:  February 24

Designed for working the mast while underway. The sit-in design offers good support, maneuverability and maximum comfort. Side storage bag, tool holder, padded timber seat, crutch strap, adjustable waist strap. Pick up Menai 2234 Mobile: 0404766679

Cape Horn Windvane Self-Steering System

• Seller:  Helen
• Location: Brisbane, Australia

Model: Spray.

Suitable for >40 foot sailing yachts.

Installed on our 44 foot yacht for approx. 2 years and was then uninstalled. Includes extra length horizontal axle and collar adaptor. All parts in excellent condition. 

Please see website for Cape Horn windvane steering systems for full details on installation and how they work. Sailing forums review this system very highly.

AUD $3,500 plus shipping from Brisbane, Australia

Battery Bank 900 Ah

• Seller:  Stefano
• Location: Greece

I am replacing my lead acid "TRACTION" battery bank with lithium, so this bank is now for sale.

It consists of 12x 2V, 450Ah 'Traction' batteries, designed for daily discharge on forklifts. Not your usual lead battery for sure!

I have it connected 6 in series to get 2 banks of 12V, 450Ah, then connected the 2 in parallel to get 900Ah at 12V. They could be connected all in series to get 450Ah at 24V.

They also come with an automatic Hydration kit that automatically fills all cells with fresh water when needed and a glassed plywood box if required.

The boat is near Athens, so you can either pick up directly there or I can arrange shipping in Europe if you want to negotiate the cost...

Wichard Gyb'Easy Boom Brake

• Seller:  Ellen
• Location: East Hampton, NY, USA
• Date:  January 24

Brand new (still packaged), never used BOOM BRAKE.

Retails for $450. Offered at $120.

Watt & Sea Hydrogenerator

• Seller:  Glen Shee
• Location: Florida, USA

New Watt & Sea 600W short leg (610mm) with 4 propellers (280mm/240mm/200mm/high-speed adjustable pitch). Equipment has been used for 2 hours only (I temporarily mounted to my F-27 to measure the output; needed the data for a research project). Output @ 10 knots measured at 40 amps. Cost to buy new: over $8,000. Offered at $4,000. In original box. Location: Florida

Fleming Windvane Self-Steering Gear

• Seller:  Dolores
• Location: Gardena, Los Angeles Area, CA, USA

Wind Vane Steering Pilot, Self Steering, Built by Fleming. 

Early model, used for 12 ton sailboat.

Includes mounting hardware, but not rods.

Only used on tiller, does not include reel that mounts to steering wheel.

Stainless Steel.

Sell as is.

In person sale only.

Spinlock XTS/2 Double Rope Clutch

• Seller:  Laura
• Location: Palm Coast, Florida
• Date:  December 2023

New in box - Spinlock XTS/2 Double Rope Clutch for lines 5/16" - 9/16" (8mm - 14mm) XTS0814/2

The Spinlock Double XTS Power Clutch is specified as standard equipment on production yachts worldwide and the choice of racing yachts inshore and offshore. This clutch provides reliable all around performance and is designed for mid to higher load line holding.

Specifications:

Rope Range - 8mm - 14mm (5/16" - 9/16") Load - 500kg - 1000kg (1103lb - 2200lb) Max SWL - 1000kg (2200lb) Weight - 1.05kg (2.31lb)

We bought it for our sailboat 38ft Wauquiez Hood, but sold the boat before fitting the Spinlock.

Scanmar International Windvane Self-Steering Gear

• Seller:  Patti Navilio
• Location: Saint Thomas, USVI
• Date:  November 2023

We bought a 2001 Island Packet. The original owners did transatlantic trips from the Virgin Islands to the Mediterranean. We will only be doing local sailing so do not want to store it. I am willing to sell for any reasonable offer.

Barient Winches

• Seller:  Chris Armbruster
• Location: Fenton, Michigan, USA

3 Barient Winches for $100 or best offer.

Great condition.

At least one is a two speed.

Winches are from a old CNC sailboat that we don't have anymore so no need for these.

Made in the USA.

Price does not include shipping.

Marine Satellite TV

• Seller:  Jacob Albano
• Location: Valencia, Spain

I have a KVH TracVision TV6 Marine Satellite TV that was installed on my boat but never used or activated. We do not not need the satellite TV since we have other services for TV on the boat. Mount and TV Hub included with the sale.

Andersen & Barient Winches

• Seller:  Stacie Hosier
• Date:  October 2023

Barient 21 winch, $125 plus $25 shipping.

Andersen 10 winch, $50 plus $20 shipping.

20hp Yanmar 2GM20F Diesel

• Seller:  ???????
• Location: Norfolk, Virginia, USA

1988 Yanmar 2GM Diesel Asking $3000 20hp 2 to 1 gear New exhaust manifold/elbow 870 hours ***New Yanmar control panel coming*** Very good condition Pick-up Only Location: Norfolk, Virginia Serious Inquiries ONLY contact (757)320-8265

Watt & Sea Cruising Hydrogenerator Tall Leg

• Seller:  Philippe
• Location: Redwood City, CA, USA

This is a never used long leg for a Watt & Sea cruising hydrogenerator. I purchased it from another sailor who never installed it and converted to a short leg. These are listed for 400 Euros. I'm listing it for $200 (USD) plus shipping. Or make me an offer, please.

Also listed is a Watt & Sea cruising hydrogenerator removable support. This was used for demo'ing Watt and Sea cruising hydrogenerators. Listing for $400 USD, here offered at $200 plus shipping or make me an offer please. 

45lb CQR Anchor & 50m of 10mm Galvainised Chain

• Seller:  Mark Sykes
• Location: West Yorkshire, UK

45lb CQR anchor for sale plus 50 meters of 10mm galvanised chain in excellent condition.

May deliver if close enough for a small fee to West Yorkshire area or between Wakefield & Hartlepool otherwise collection, or postage costs will have to be added. 

Gill Mens XL Offshore Foul Weather Jacket and Bibs

• Seller:  Harry DeBold
• Location: Ohio USA

Foul weather jacket and bibs

Gill Offshore yellow and blue color, like new, size XL.

Current West Marine price $375 each for jacket or bibs.

Yanmar Diesel Fuel Filters

• Seller:  Jeff Conn
• Location: Baton Rouge, LA USA

Four (4) Yanmar Diesel fuel filters.

Yanmar Part Number 119802-55801.

In boxes and membrane coverings.

Asking $80 and buyer pays for shipping.

Luff Hanked Dacron Staysail

5.5-8 oz Dacron 71 sq.ft. luff-hanked high clewed staysail.

• Luff 20' 04",
• Leech 17' 07",
• Foot 8' 05".
• 3' tack pendent.

Unused, asking $300, buyer pays for shipping.

27' Aluminium Mast & Whisker Pole 

• Seller:  Cheryl
• Location: Madeira Beach, Florida, USA

27' mast, whisker pole and 3 sails - $100 or best offer,

Call 727-317-7716 (Leave message if no answer).

Winch Handles

• Seller:  Anthony C Giaccio
• Location: Wayne, New Jersey, USA

1 Barlow and 1 Barient chrome-plated 10-inch Australian winch handles are for sale.

They were used on a 38-foot sloop and are in excellent condition.

They have ratcheting and locking features.

The value of these handles when new was $152, but the seller is willing to accept the best offer over $51.

Monitor Windvane Self-Steering Gear

• Seller:  Demnislake
• Location: Lakeport, California USA
• Date:  August 2023

Monitor windvane complete, 316 stainless steel with wheel adapter.

Asking $2,500

Miscellaneous Marine Equipment

• Seller:  Alex
• Location: Miami, Florida USA

Anchors, Line, chain, outboard motor mount, SS ladder etc

Spinlock Deckvest 150N Lifejacket Harness

• Seller:  Terry Moore
• Location: Islesboro, Maine USA

I have two Spinlock Deckvest 150 Lifejackets. One is a size 1, the other is a size 2. Both are in Like New condition. I am happy to sell them separately, or as a pair. Price is $275 for one, $250 each if you want both.

I also have two Kong Double elastic tethers from West Marine. They are both in Like New condition. I will sell one for $75, or both for $100.

New Harken Triple Block

• Seller:  Mike de Martimo
• Location: Oxnard, California, USA
• Date:  July 2023

I bought the wrong block and have a new Harken 1556 block for sale.

1/2" Galvanised Turnbuckles

• Seller:  David Snyder
• Location: Rushville, Illinois, USA

1/2" galvanized turnbuckles, like new $40/pair.

35 lb CQR Anchor

• Seller:  Roger Cook
• Location: Alexandria, Virginia, USA

35 lb CQR anchor for sale. Like new, never used. Price: $300. (Note: new CQR at West Marine lists for $795)

Airmar DST810 Speed Transducer

• Seller:  James Burdett
• Location: Vancouver, Canada

This plastic thru-hull NMEA 2000® smart transducer combines precise speed and temperature signals with attitude sensing for heel/trim and pitch/roll data.

This is a new unit but DEPTH reading is inoperative, speed and temperature reading are perfect.

Comes complete with through-hull fitting and blanking plug.

Raymarine SeaTalk to SeaTalkNG Converter Kit

All the necessary components to interface most SeaTalk1 devices to a Raymarine SeaTalkNG network.

Used to interface SeaTalk connectors found on ST40 and ST60+ sailboat instruments with newer SeaTalk NG networks.

$200 on Binnacle

West Marine Boat Buffer

Boat buffer/polisher with bonnet and case.

Good working order

Asking CAD $50 (USD $40, GBP £30)

Yanmar 3GM30 Exhaust Elbow

Straight OEM Yanmar exhaust mixing elbow for Yanmar 3GM30 marine diesel.

Perfect condition, ZERO corrosion as never used with salt water.

Part number 128370-1355. Retails new at USD $690

Asking Canadian Dollars $200 (USD $150, GBP £120)

TackTick Tactical Racing Compass

• Seller:  Chris
• Location: Downingtown, PA USA

This is a brand new never used tacktick microcompass with case, cradle, and all documentation in original packaging. Never used and fully functional. Can be used to display heading, tactical heading (for wind shift detection), and countdown timer (for race starts). Solar powered with internal rechargeable battery. Great instrument for racing, knowing immediately if wind shift is backing or veering. Paid $350, they now sell online for more than $600. Selling for $200 + shipping. Cash or Venmo.

Imray Paper Charts

• Seller:  Rosie Featherstone
• Location: Leicestershire UK

Vital backup paper charts to support cruises in the Channel, South Coast of England, France, Channel Islands and Northern Spain.

Imray paper charts prove invaluable when passage planning and passage making and are essential backup if the electronics go down.

We found it very difficult to create passage plans using electronics only as the details vary as the scales change.

We have decided to sell our beloved Malo so have the following used charts for sale as a set or individually.

• Imray 1:825000. C19. Cabo Finistère to Gibraltar
• Imray. 1:400000. C10. West English Channel passage chart
• Imray. 1;115000. C8. Dover Strait
• Imray. 1;300000. C12. Easter English Channel
• Imray. 1:400000. C10. Western English’s Channel passage chart
• Imray 1;350000. C48. La Coruna to Porto
• Imray. 1:80000. C36. Île d Ouessant to Rax de Sein
• Imray. 1;80000. C37. Raz de Sein to Benidet
• Imray. 1;80000. C38. Anse de Benodet to Presque île de Quiberon
• Imray. 1;127000. C42. La Gironde
• Imray. 1;109400. C41. Les Sables d Olonne to La Gironde
• Imray 1;109000. C40 Le Croisic to Sables d Olonne

Charts are all used but not torn and are in protective plastic wallets. All are in good condition. £5 per chart plus postage and packing. £50 for the set plus postage and packing.

Lotus Analin Boat Fenders

• Seller:  Robert
• Location: San Antonio, Texas, USA
• Date:  June 2023

Lotus analin 4 ribbed marine 8.5”x 27” boat fender black vinyl bumper dock shield protection new in box.

Various Items of Sailing Gear & Equipment

• Seller:  Glenn
• Location: Plymouth, MA, USA

Dyer Dow Sailing Dinghy; Davis Echomaster Radar Reflector; Sailboat Console Cup Holder; MOB Pole; Ibas Emergency Ladder; Fortress FX 37 Anchor; Boat Fender; Lifesling; Bosuns Chair; Harnesses and Jackline; West Marine 7x50 Binoculars; Davis Mark 25 Beam Converger Sextant; Icom SSB IC-M700 with AT-120 Antenna; Guest Anchor Light; 1/2" Anchor Line:-

• 250' of 1/2" Anchor Line Tagged in 50' Increments;
• 48' of 1/4" Diameter Anchor Chain;

Class B EPIRB Model ACR/RLB-21; Outboard Motor Mount for 1" Rails.

Mast & Standing Rigging (from Oyster 54)

• Seller:  Andy Dickson
• Location:  Henley on Thames, South Oxfordshire, UK
• Date:  May 2023

I have just converted to in-mast furling rig to simplify our Oyster 54 for 2 handed sailing.

The mast I removed is for sale including 4 spreaders and mast step, standing rigging, battened mainsail and sailbag.

This would suit anyone building/refurbishing a 50+ ft yacht. All equipment is in fully functional working order and very good condition.

All items are same age, dating from first launch in 2011, so 12 years old.

All equipment currently held in Ipswich, Suffolk.

Sensible offers invited.

ENO "One Grand Large Gascogne" Boat Oven

• Seller:  Robert W
• Location:  Northamptonshire UK

ENO "One Grand Large Gascogne" Gimballed 2 burner, oven, no grill, no ignition.

Jets for Campingaz.

Excellent condition.

Measurements: 467 H x 504 W x 244 D.

Revere Offshore Liferaft

• Seller:  Peter Helmetag
• Location: Riverside, Rhode Island, USA

Revere 4 Person Off-Shore Life Raft

Recently Re-packed by Life Raft Safety

Expires 1/26 - see invoice for details

Soft Valise

Crewsaver 6-Person Liferaft

• Seller:  Nick Rapagnani
• Location: New Jersey, USA
• Date:  April 2023

Crewsaver ISO 9650-1 Ocean Life Raft - 6 Person - Over 24 Hours.

Next Inspection date May 2021. Needs recertification by Authorized Crewsaver service center. Sold AS-IS.

Selling at half price of new.

Like New Condition, never deployed. Just needs recertification.

Asking $1,400 plus shipping.

Lewmar 43ST Winches

• Seller:  Keith
• Location:  Sarasota, Florida USA

These Lewmar 43 self-tailers have aluminum drums, are fully cleaned, lubed and ready to install. 6.5" bases.

Asking $1,500 for both + shipping

941-504-1215 - leave message for call back

Operator Manuals for Universal Engines

• Seller:  Thom
• Location: Center Conway, NH USA

Full Service, Parts List and Operators Manuals for Universal M-25XPB, M-35B, M-40B engines. We've repowered so no longer need. Fully Detailed.

• Service Manual 109 pages
• Parts List 56 pages
• Operators Manual 157 pages

in one binder

Rutland Windcharger

• Seller:  Mike Smith
• Location: Wells, Somerset, UK

Rutland Windcharger-Model 910-12v

NEW, never been assembled

Asking £500

Gill Yachting Boots

Gill tall yachting boots (blue) EU size 42 - AS NEW

Helly Hanson Thermal Pants

Helly Hanson Hi-Vis thermal/orange pants C48-W33/L32 Detachable braces and hanging pockets Asking £55

AIS Class B & Chartplotter Xinuo HM-5912N

• Seller:  Marco Keller
• Location: La Manga del Mar Menor, España

12.1" Colour LCD Display Built In AIS Transponder (VHF Antenna Required) External GPS Antenna 800x600 Resolution 6 Display Modes Memory: 10,000 Waypoints, 200 Routes, 10,000 Marks C-MAP MAX Compatible Interface: 1 x AIS Output Port, 2 x NMEA 0183 Outputs, 3 x NMEA0183 Inputs (Baud rate can be set independently) Power: 12-36vDC

Asking €525

Davis Echomaster Radar Reflector

• Seller:  Andrew Mason
• Location: Auburn Alabama, USA
• Date:  March 2023

Slightly used, but appears brand new.

Side-Power Thruster Upgrade Kit

• Seller:  Peter
• Location: Fort Denaud, Florida, USA

Side-Power Propeller Upgrade Kit SE80/100

Fits SP75-95

New in box with 2 props, all hardware, adapters and zincs.

I've sold my boat have no use for this as it was aboard for spare

Taylor Made Dock Box

• Seller:  Dave
• Location: Ashland, Kentucky, USA

Taylor Made fiberglass dock box. Purchased from West Marine.

It measures 50" long, 18" wide, 23" deep.

Dock box is in excellent condition.

Not cracked, scratched or damaged. Always been cared for.

New ones of this size are selling for $699 and up.

Call me on 606-615-3659

Custom Synthetic Teak Decking for Beneteau 311, complete kit, NEW

• Seller:  Zoltan Sachs
• Location: Essex, Vermont, USA

For sale is a complete set of factory pre-cut synthetic teak decking for a Beneteau 311 sailboat. I bought it pre-cut and decided to instead replace the two sections that needed it. Paid $700. Looking to recover some of my cost. What's included:

• Custom New York Style PlasDeck mat-Teak w/Black Lines
• Off-White Sausage Glue, two tubes
• Roller to rollout each piece evenly

All NEW, never used, direct from manufacturer. Will ship. Please inquire.

• Location: Toronto, Canada

2 Barient Self-Tailing Winches, Anodized Aluminum, size 27, in good condition.

Freshwater use only.

$500 Canadian, per unit, shipping not included.

1 Barient winch, size 18, in good condition. Fresh water use only.

$150 Canadian, per unit, shipping not included.

Lewmar Electric Anchor Windlass

Lewmar Electric Anchor Windlass, 12 V, Gypsy and Drum, Model H2.

Never used or installed.

Manual and all installation materials included.

Gill Foul Weather Gear

• Seller:  John
• Location: Seattle, USA

Gill foul weather gear: bib and jacket. Both men's large size.

Like new. Never worn. 

Lofran Windlass Royal 8mm

• Seller:  Jeannette
• Location: Stock Island, Florida Keys, USA

Like new. Minimal use.

Located on Stock Island, Florida Keys.

MAXX 700 Watt DC to AC Inverter

• Seller:  Dennis Woods
• Location: Canton, Michigan, USA

This is a 700 Watt Marine inverter. It tops out at 1400 Watts. It is corrosion and vibration resistant, and is built by VECTOE.

IT HAS NEVER BEEN USED! The little digs in the paint are from being moved around my basement for some years. It has three plugs. My name is Dennis Woods. I live in Canto Michigan, between Detroit and Ann Arbor. 

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Steering the dream

Hydrovane is your best crew member: an independent self-steering windvane and emergency rudder/steering system... ready to go!

Hydrovane will fit any cruising boat!

Off-center installations are the norm!

Doubles as Emergency Rudder/Steering!

True Stories

Golden Globe Update Day 113:

[GGR Leader Jean-Luc Van Den Heede sailing the Rustler 36 Matmut] was full of praise for his Hydrovane self-steering. “In a gale it has a big advantage because it is not steering the boat’s rudder, but has its own. This little rudder is far more efficient than the big rudder.”

– Jean Luc Van Den Heede on satellite phone call

“I am happy I did install the Hydrovane, especially that I saw on YouTube that at the same time 2 sailboats almost the same size as mine with the same problem. The crew had to abandon the the ships and left both boats in the middle of the Atlantic and lost everything … again thanks to the Hydrovane. It saved my boat.”

– Jacques Glaser, Amel Mango 52

“My wife and I have just completed a two month cruise with our new Hydrovane and it has performed beyond all expectations… If cruising I wouldn’t go to sea without one: strong, simple, reliable, an emergency helm and an extra crew member who never complains and doesn’t need a watch system.”

– Pete Goss, MBE, Frances 34

“So, I must tell you, and I mean this sincerely, the Hydrovane is simply a game changer for Quetzal. It’s just great and performs better than I expected… One other feature of the vane that I really appreciate is that it eases the load on the rudder and rudder bearings.”

– John Krestchmaer, Kaufman 47

“With just two of us on board, I wanted a system that was simple and effective to operate, and it has exceeded my most optimistic expectations by a considerable margin. It truly is our third crew member.”

– John Mennem, Jeanneau 45.2

“…it is still the most technically elegant solution i have ever seen for a wind vane… I was clawing off a lee shore on one side, and islands on another – winds were reported at 55 knots, and waves in the region were at least ‘boat length’ high and quite steep with the currents. This was an awful night and I was very afraid for myself, the boat and my equipment – I had new found respect, trust and comfort in the Hydrovane after that.”

– Steve De Maio, Contessa 26

In this recent Pacific crossing, the Hydrovane kept us on course (relative to the wind, of course) for several days at a time, requiring no tweaking or attention at all. If you can balance your boat and twist a dial, you can successfully operate a Hydrovane. Don’t leave home without one!

– Bill Ennis, Passport 40

“For the first time, we had to run downwind, under bare poles in gale force 8 conditions, with gusts to 50 knots – and don’t get me started on the sea conditions! Have you ever swallowed your tongue? Oh, and iVane, our wind-steering partner. What a gem! It steered 230 hard miles without even nut rations.”

– Brian Anderson, Hallberg Rassy 40

“The additional cash to purchase a windvane was almost too much… Just how good is this ‘Hydrovane’ anyway?”

After 29,000+ miles: “We’ve said to each many times that without doubt the most valuable piece of equipment on board was Casper – best purchase EVER. I will never own an offshore boat again that does not have this device.”

– Ryan Robertson, T 40

Swim Step / Sugar Scoop

External rudder, watt&sea bracket, other products.

Watt&Sea Hydrogenerator

Echo Tec Watermaker

Happy Halloween! This costume may have been for a different occasion but relevant nonetheless! 👻 “After seeing what Taurus [the Hydrovane] does for us [my friend] fell in love with him too. So much so that when the crew dressed up for the equator crossing, she dressed up as a Hydrovane!” - Norlin 37 owner 🙌🙌 ... See More See Less

• Comments: 1

1 Comment Comment on Facebook

How times change just thought I’d send you this video that somebody sent me that bought a Hydrovane ❤️x

Well that was a fun night. 🎉 Thanks @cruisersawards Young Cruisers' Association for bringing together so many inspirational sailors and story tellers! Get out there and chase the wind ⛵️ #cruiserawards #youngcruisers #internationalcruiserawards #seapeople #annapolis #usboatshow #hydrovane ... See More See Less

• Comments: 0

0 Comments Comment on Facebook

#repost from @kirstenggr ⛵️ “Thinking back on the sailing, and missing it! Thanks to @ hydrovane for having serviced Minnehaha's hydrovane , which did about 45 000 nm before having any major overhaul - possibly more than any hydrovane has ever done before without a significant service. It saw Kirsten and Minnehaha all the way through the GGR and over the finish line! The unit is as good as new again, and it was smooth sailing all the way down to Madeira! Also, a big thanks to Eddie Arsenault, for having built such a solid mounting bracket for the hydrovane ! Without Eddie, Minnehaha would just not be the strong boat that she is today!” ... See More See Less

• Comments: 2

2 Comments Comment on Facebook

Wow, absolutely so proud my fathers invention and so glad everybody is so still going strong with this after so many years!! It is so lovely to see !❤️

Any photos of the mount Eddie made?

Thank you Kirsten Neuschäfer ! You are an inspiration. The Hydrovane loves sailing as much as you do 😀 Kudos to Eddie for the rock solid install! Thinking back on the sailing, and missing it! Thanks to Hydrovane International Marine for having serviced Minnehaha's hydrovane, which did about 45 000 nm before having any major overhaul - possibly more than any hydrovane has ever done before without a significant service. It saw Kirsten and Minnehaha all the way through the GGR and over the finish line! The unit is as good as new again, and it was smooth sailing all the way down to Madeira! Also, a big thanks to Eddie Arsenault, for having built such a solid mounting bracket for the hydrovane! Without Eddie, Minnehaha would just not be the strong boat that she is today! ... See More See Less

Hydrovane is my most trusted crewman.

Lee Colledge Shaun Colledge see what you have built 💪 👌

Once upon a time under spinnaker between Niue and Tonga 😍 ... See More See Less

This week we sailed from Lemvig Denmark to Vlieland Netherlands. 270nm and a tough journey for us and without the Hydrovane it really wouldn't have been possible for us. It gives us peace of mind while sailing and can no longer do without it. Boat is a Barbican 33.

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Sailing With a Windvane

• By Alvah Simon
• Updated: December 9, 2019

Once found only in the ascetic realm of single-handed sailing, self-steering gear has become ubiquitous on cruising boats, even fully crewed ones. That’s because a self-steering unit serves as an additional hand that possesses relentless concentration at the helm; subsists on only amps or lubricants; and, if properly trained, does what’s asked of it without question or complaint.

Reliable remote control of the helm relieves the fatigue and monotony of following a compass course at night. It allows time for sail changes and adjustments; horizon sweeps for ships; attentive navigation; and that quick dip below to check the bilges and grab a hot drink. Without question, self-steering makes for a more relaxed, enjoyable and safe voyage.

But the debate over which kind of self-steering is best for a sailboat — electric or windvane — rages on. I may be an old-fashioned belt-and-suspenders kind of sailor, but I believe both systems have their different strengths and weaknesses, and therefore complement each other. In other words, any vessel that is configured in a way that can accommodate both methods should do so.

In this scenario, the more robust mechanical sailboat windvane would be employed in heavier weather, while the electric autopilot would be used in light airs and under power, where directional corrections are provided not by the wind, but by a fluxgate compass. It is important to understand that while the electric autopilot maintains a steady compass course, a windvane is set to maintain a desired angle off the apparent wind, and therefore will follow any wind shifts or changes in wind velocity. While this does keep the sails perpetually in trim, the course must be monitored closely when in confined waterways.

That said, if forced to choose, I would go with the mechanical windvane, hands down. Vanes don’t rely on the ship’s electrical power supply, which serves as the last link in a long chain of delicate electrical components and breakable mechanical parts. Across the range of types and brands, mechanical windvanes generate amazing power in rough conditions (when needed most), coupled with notable durability. Almost 30 years ago I purchased an already well-used Aries windvane. It has faithfully followed me from boat to boat, and around the world, with clear indications that it will outlast me. On the other hand, I have an overflowing box of spare parts cannibalized from the many electric tiller-pilots I have chewed through in that same period.

Types of Sailboat Windvanes

Introduced by the indomitable Blondie Hasler, founder of the OSTAR solo transatlantic race in 1960, the original sailboat windvane consisted of a direct coupling of a horizontally rotating (vertical axis) vane to a trim tab on the aft edge of a transom-hung rudder. Once the vane was fixed to the desired angle off the wind (using a round base plate with notches spaced at 5-degree intervals), any course change rotated the large vane like a weathercock. This in turn twisted the tab to one side of the main rudder, driving the rudder in the opposite direction, thus bringing the vessel back on course. The advantage to this system was its ease of construction and low cost, but it was best adapted to the waning style of transom-hung rudders. Also, a large vane was required to harness sufficient wind to power the trim tab. Therefore, especially in light airs, the tall, heavy vanes often reacted more to the yaw and roll of the vessel than to the wind, resulting in erratic meandering.

However, from this early and rudimentary concept, two sophisticated yet distinct types of vanes evolved: the servo-pendulum system (SPS) and the auxiliary rudder system (ARS). Both SPS and ARS systems employ a counterweighted horizontal- or vertical-axis wind vane to activate an appendage in the water, but the similarities end there. (To confuse the issue, there is now a hybrid system called the servo-driven auxiliary rudder, or SAR. But by first addressing the two basic concepts, a clearer understanding of this marriage of ideas will emerge.)

The SPS system — best represented by brands such as Aries , Cape Horn , Fleming, Monitor and Sailomat — uses the movement of the windvane to horizontally turn an independent servo-rudder (essentially a separate oar or paddle) that is deployed into the water. As the boat moves, the laminar flow of water presses against the positive lead on the servo-rudder, generating sufficient power to aggressively swing the servo-pendulum, or windvane, in one direction or the other.

While it is the power of the wind that directs the angle the servo-rudder presents to the passing water, it is boat speed through that water that exerts the considerable pounds of pull on the lines that run from the servo-rudder and through a series of turning blocks, ultimately connecting to the tiller (or, in the case of wheel steering, a drum in the center of the wheel). More simply, the servo-rudder does not turn the boat; it pulls on the tiller or rotates the wheel, which in turn moves the main rudder.

Perhaps the main drawback to this concept is the limited throw of the lines, as the distance of arc through which the pendulum swings is limited to the width of its supporting frame, an average of approximately 10 inches. This is no issue when connected to a tiller because one can fix the lines at the optimum point on the helm: high for more power, lower for a greater turning angle. But depending on the stop-to-stop ratio of a wheel steering system, the length of pull may not be sufficient to effectively control the vessel. This problem can be exacerbated by center-cockpit designs, as longer line lengths may stretch more, further limiting the effective length of pull.

The ARS system, best represented in the market by Hydrovane , employs an altogether separate appendage to steer the vessel. The boat’s main rudder is usually fixed amidship (or angled slightly to offset a lee or weather helm) and a second, auxiliary rudder, directed by a windvane, takes control of the steering. Thus, it is not only a self-steering device, but can also serve as an emergency rudder. Considering that all four of the Mayday calls I monitored on one of my Pacific crossings related to steering failure, this redundancy has considerable value. Because of the forces placed on this rudder it must be robust in construction, well fixed to the vessel, and of sufficient design and size to handily maneuver substantial tonnage.

Pros and Cons of Sailboat Windvanes

There is a heated online debate among some of the manufacturers and distributors of the respective systems, each dismissing the supposed advantages of the other’s design concept while touting their own. I have sailed with both servo-pendulum designs and auxiliary rudders and found both to be practical and reliable; the final decision, to me, comes down to the type of vessel to which they will be attached, the steering system onboard, the conditions of sailing most likely to be experienced and the budget. In my opinion, the auxiliary rudder is more sensitive in light air, which is the average condition found in many recreational sailing areas. I’ve found the servo-pendulum model to be rock steady in conditions so rough that the average helmsperson would be exhausted within an hour.

But there are advantages and disadvantages to each approach. For example, the auxiliary rudder windvane has no provisions for being lifted out of the water to clear flotsam and seaweed; it can affect the backing characteristics of a vessel; and there’s no dedicated, engineered, breakaway “weak spot” when colliding with something like a submerged log. (In such instances, most servo-pendulum rudders simply flip up out of the way, and are popped back in place with the pull of a line.) On the other hand, auxiliary rudders don’t require lines that obstruct the decks and cockpit, a significant advantage depending on the placement of the helm.

To the latter point, perhaps too much is made of the difficulty in fixing, releasing and adjusting the tension of the lines on an SPS windvane. I corrected this problem with a $5 double jam cleat. Instead of using the typical link in a chain to connect to the tiller, I run my lines through an eye bolt on the tiller and back to the jam cleat. I can ease or tighten the lines balancing friction with precision; introduce infinite increments of bias to help balance the boat; and even when under tremendous pressure, immediately release the lines in an emergency situation.

A subtle but potentially important advantage of the SPS windvane is its natural aversion to broaching. As a steep wave slams into the quarter, the vessel can violently swing sideways. However, this same sudden sideways force pushes the servo-rudder in a direction that immediately tries to turn the boat back down the face of the wave. But even that point could be countered with the claim that by fixing the large main rudder in place, as in an ARS, substantial lateral stability is added to the vessel, thus minimizing any penchant to broach.

When mounting either system, the latest sailboat design trends — open, aft-entry cockpits and drop-down transoms — present new challenges. Hydrovane makes the unequivocal claim that its ARS windvane can be mounted off-center without affecting performance. Offsetting the vane opens access to the sugar scoop and/or the boarding and swim ladders. But as drop-down transoms, in particular, become ever beamier, there is less flat and fixed space available for robust windvane mounting. Depending on the stiffness of the vessel, one would not want to push the vane too far outboard for fear of lifting the auxiliary rudder clear out of the water on a heavy heel.

All SPS manufacturers stress the importance of meticulous centering during initial installation. Adapting to these new transoms, Monitor has introduced the SwingGate system to its windvanes. This is essentially a pivoting pushpit, much like a garden gate, with the vane attached. When the gate is open the boarding platform or swim ladder can be accessed, and when the gate is closed the vane sits firmly fixed amidship.

While completely appropriate for trimarans, windvane steering is not well suited for catamaran designs due to the dual rudders and high bridge-deck clearance.

As to pricing, there is no denying that the basic ARS units cost from 25 to 40 percent more than SPS models. Acting as the boat’s main rudder demands that the auxiliary rudder and mechanisms be constructed from heavy, high-quality materials. But if one chooses the swing-gate option, the additional cost of the gate structure must also be factored in.

Summing Up Self-Steering

When choosing a self-steering system for your sailboat, closely assess the design features of your boat and the conditions you will most often encounter. If you intend to make any kind of extended passages, consider a high-quality mechanical self-steering unit, possibly coupled with a lighter electrical system. Often, the two can be combined, offering the precision of fluxgate steering with the power and toughness of mechanical systems (see “ A Hybrid Self-Steering Solution “).

After the initial expense of purchase and installation, there will be no piece of equipment on your vessel more prized than your mechanical self-steering. I don’t know of a single long-distance sailor who has given a name to the roller-furling system, nor of one who has not named the windvane. Be it SPS or ARS, called Esther or Otto, trust me, out there on the Big Blue you will have many long and meaningful conversations with it.

But like all relationships, this one requires practice and patience. First and foremost, do not ask the windvane to make up for sloppy sailing. Balance your boat, starting with waterline trim. Keep the weight out of the ends and ensure that the sails are appropriately sized, set and trimmed to the conditions. Excessive heel is not only slow, but places the boat on lines that the designer never intended, resulting in poor tracking. Ensure that the windvane is not blanketed by superstructure or fed turbulent air via barbecues, solar panels or davits. Experiment with different settings, such as blade angle and line tension, to understand and optimize performance in various conditions.

Models that employ a mix of metals should be disassembled, cleaned and lubricated regularly to minimize electrolysis. When reassembling, use a high-grade barrier cream on all fasteners.

All models benefit from an occasional bath of scalding-hot fresh water to dissolve any buildup of salt, minerals and solidified grease.

And finally, for those concerned that these protruding, industrial-looking structures may ruin the lines of an otherwise lovely vessel, remember: “The rougher it gets, the better they look.”

Windvane Manufacturers

Aries Vane Gear ariesvane.com and ariesvanegear.com Cape Horn Marine Products Fleming Marine Hydrovane International Sailomat USA Scanmar International Voyager Self Steering Inc. Windpilot

Two-time circumnavigator Alvah Simon is a CW contributing editor. This article first appeared in the July 2014 issue of Cruising World as “A Vane to Steer Her By.”

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Kevin Boothby Sailing

Build Your Own Self-Steering Windvane

For the short-handed sailor planning long ocean crossings, a self-steering windvane is not essential but darn close to it. For boats with stern-hung rudders, a self-steering windvane can be constructed with readily available materials and a modest level of skill.

It’s all about leverage. There will be an air paddle which will weathercock to the wind and provide enough torque to move the trim tab which we are going to mount on the trailing edge of the rudder. The trim tab will be a slender, high aspect ratio blade, and we will add some “balance” to it–a little bit of the blade will lead the shaft–all so as to lessen the torque required to move the trim tab when the water is flowing over it and thus increase the amount of leverage the air paddle has over it.

Let’s start with building the trim tab. The trim tab should be somewhere around 10 to 15 percent of the area of the rudder. We decide on the correct diameter of shaft for the blade. In my case this was a 5/8″ diameter stainless steel shaft. We then drill several (say four) holes to take through-bolts which will hold the wooden blade to the shaft. Below is the rough blade held to the shaft with 1/4-20 bolts. Notice the thinner piece on the leading edge, this will give it some balance.

We then permanently attach the blade with the bolts and 3M 5200 and begin fairing:

Following fairing and shaping we will then encase the entire blade in fiberglass roving and epoxy, this will add a great deal of strength and durability.

Now we have to mount it on the end of the rudder. But before we start drilling any holes, we need to work out some geometry. The trim tab must be mounted such that the air paddle will attach at the “no action point”; that is, where the trim tab shaft intersects the axis of rotation of the rudder. This is important because if the air paddle is not attached at this point, the turning of the rudder will wag the air paddle back and forth resulting in poor performance. Hopefully the diagram below will make this clear:

For the gudgeons on the rudder I used 1″ thick pieces of ash which I cut like opened jaws to slide onto the trailing edge of the rudder. They were finally attached with through-bolts and plenty of 3M 5200. For the bottom gudgeon I drilled a slightly oversized hole for the shaft to drop down through. On the inside of the hole I put a few laminates of epoxy and fiberglass roving to minimize friction and make it snug (note: I’ve since inserted a nylon bushing, which works better).

Similarly for the upper gudgeon EXCEPT that I opened the hole to the outboard end so that it formed a “U” and then closed it with a small U-shaped piece of plywood bolted on top and facing inboard (see pics below). Why? So that the trim tab can be removed for servicing.

And finally there is a third gudgeon at the rudder head, which is simply screwed onto a wooden cleat mounted there, again so that it can be easily removed.

Now we have come to the issue of attaching the air paddle. First of all, the air paddle needs to be balanced. This means the axis where the trim tab shaft runs through it is also the center of mass, or if the shaft was held horizontally and the air paddle free to rotate it would not choose to do so absent any wind. Since the plywood air paddle has weight, this will require a counterweight for which I used a regular shaft zinc clamped to a wooden dowel.

With our air paddle and counterweight constructed the last remaining item is the engaging mechanism. I opted for the simplest possible, simply boring a hole up a rectangular piece of timber for the shaft to pass through, and then sawing about halfway up from the bottom (see above photo). The air paddle and counterweight are bolted at the top, while at the bottom, on either side of the bored shaft hole, are 1/4-20 bolts with big handles on them. The opposing nuts are set in epoxy. Thus the air paddle can freely turn on the shaft until I tighten the bolts, when it clamps onto the shaft and the windvane is thus engaged.

And that’s it.   So far this vane has steered me over 30,000 miles.  I can get it to work in winds down in the 3-6 knot range, and then it has steered the boat while running before a gale under bare poles.   In order to work well in light airs the gudgeons must be greased from time to time.  This can easily be accomplished in the water while donning a mask and snorkle.   Just lift the trim tab up a few inches (it cannot actually pop out of the bottom gudgeon before the blade runs up against the upper gudgeon–with the little plywood cap on, of course), clean, grease, and set back down. 

Now one peccadillo I have found with this type of steering vane is the tendency to over-steer. It tends to shove the helm too fast and too far on either side, causing the boat to sail a slalom course. One cure for this is to attach shock cords to your tiller lashings which will greatly dampen the effect. The size and setup of the shock cords will vary from boat to boat. Here is my current setup shown below:

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