We regularly hear positive Hydrovane reports from boats that are over 50,000 lbs (23,000kg) displacement. The heaviest boat we’ve fitted to date weighs in at 60,000 lbs (27,000 kg). That owner named his Hydrovane ‘The Hand of God’!
We are able to fit heavier displacement boats because of developments made to the Hydrovane over the past ten years that have focused on today’s larger and faster boats. Prior to these changes, we used to suggest maximums of 40,000 lbs. (18,000kgs.). These maximums have changed considerably.
Some of the developments include:
- 2015 – ‘XT Vane’ – more power for light air
- 2011 – Larger Rudder is perfected. It is longer, fatter and better balanced: more powerful but easy to control
- 2009 – Switched the rudder shaft to ‘Super Duplex’ steel, which is nearly three times as strong as the predecessor ‘316’ stainless steel
- 2010 – New Con Rod assembly is 33 times stronger and provides a tighter and smoother transition
In each case for heavy boats, the customer must help gauge the suitability. The Hydrovane’s steering power diminishes as the size of the boat increases and is challenged at higher boat speeds starting at perhaps 10 to 12 knots.
Best is to read the reports from our customers. Search testimonials for:
|
|
BOATS UP TO 25 TONS – Our old suggested maximum displacement was 20 tons. But we have learned a lot and made some improvements since then. Now have plenty of owners of 25-ton boats or even more who are happy enough with what they get from their Hydrovanes. Actually, we keep upping the acceptable weight limit only to discover that an even heavier boat is happy enough with their Hydrovane. We know that the limitations are all based on sensitivity to sail trim – for both the boat and the skipper.
BOATS OVER 25 TONS – CONSIDER DUAL HYDROVANES
THREE RUDDERS – Two Hydrovanes on a boat would deliver double steering power – nothing more and nothing less. A single HV is comfortable enough on 25 ton boats but does need nursing …………. requires well balanced boats with good sailors on board.
Contact us for more information.
Recent Comments