Simple to Operate
The Hydrovane is an Auxiliary Rudder system, meaning it has its own rudder that is independent of the boat’s main steering system. Once engaged, the large vane becomes a wind direction sensor, and also provides the power to drive the Hydrovane rudder.
Being independent, there are no lines connected to the main steering, so set up and operation are simple.
Four Easy Steps:
- Trim the sails to the course – so the boat is comfortable holding that course
- Set the vane with its leading edge into the wind – as if “in irons”
- Lock main rudder in the ‘on course’ position that compensates for, or eliminates any weather helm
- Click the Hydrovane into gear – just move the ratio knob from neutral into gear
… The Hydrovane rudder is then steering the boat!
As the boat falls off course, the apparent wind angle changes and drives the vane over. The movement of the vane is linked to turn the Hydrovane rudder down below to bring you back on course.
“In a word, fantastic… with sails and the boat’s rudder in trim, it was dead simple to engage and adjust, achieving a stable helm almost instantly.”
– Elan 434
Apparent Wind Based Course
All windvanes steer an apparent wind based course (as opposed to a magnetic compass course). As the wind shifts, your course will also shift. A wind based course is ideal for offshore sailors because it means your boat is always trimmed properly. In the tradewinds, we’ve experienced days on end without having to touch the vane. It is blissful.
To adjust your heading, simply pull on the ‘remote course setting line’ that is set up within reach of the cockpit, to adjust the angle of the vane to the wind. Trim your sails.
““Lucy” is truly an amazing device, reliable and strongly built which afforded the crew a lot of comfort: knowing that also at night we did not have to worry about an accidental jibe, would stay on the same wind angle and had much time for other things like navigation, cooking and sleeping.”
– Hallberg Rassy 45
Other Features
