True Stories

Emails

The following emails are presented verbatim including the owners name and email addresses. You are welcome to contact them but please introduce yourself as they are under no obligation to Hydrovane.

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED APRIL 2008 - Catalina 36

".....our 12-year-old son who does his own watches, can command the boat with confidence. With 'Hydie' at the helm, we never have to worry."

"I just have to silently laugh knowing that I have none of those worries. 'Hydie" has driven us through 45-knot gales never losing her way. On the other end of the spectrum, in the Doldrums recently, floating under bare poles in about 2 knots of wind,....."

From: Chris Burns [mailto:burnssail@hotmail.com] - Sailmail address provided on request

Sent: April-26-08 10:27 AM

To: will@hydrovane.com

Subject: Hydrovane Sails Pacific

Will, John and the Hydrovane Crew:

I wanted to let you know that the Hydrovane installed on Wind Dancer, a Catalina 36, has steered us every sailing mile from Alaska to where we are today -- about halfway between the Marquesas Islands and the Tuamotus Archipelago in the South Pacific. That's about 7,000 sea miles without a hitch. We love our Hydrovane and wouldn't trade it for any other piece of gear on the boat. It is so easy to use that the entire crew, including our 12-year-old son who does his own watches, can command the boat with confidence. With 'Hydie' at the helm, we never have to worry.

Along the voyage we've met myriad other cruisers with the old fashioned Monitors and other servo windvanes, all of them griping about chafed lines, broken blocks, wobbly courses and exactly which points of sail are worth using them on. I just have to silently laugh knowing that I have none of those worries. 'Hydie" has driven us through 45-knot gales never losing her way. On the other end of the spectrum, in the Doldrums recently, floating under bare poles in about 2 knots of wind, the Hydrovane actually held a course through the night. A boat traveling with us (using a Monitor or similar windvane) had drifted 5 miles in the wrong direction by morning.

Fair winds,

Chris Burns s/v Wind Dancer

ANOTHER EMAIL FROM THE CHRIS RECEIVED AUGUST 2007

"We are so jazzed about the Hydrovane we hope others will make the same decision we did."

From: Chris Burns [mailto:burnssail@hotmail.com]
Sent: August-06-07 9:31 AM
To: 'Will Curry'
Subject: RE: Hydrovane

Will:

I'm the guy from Juneau, Alaska, who purchased a Hydrovane from you in June. I thought you might like to know how the unit has been performing during our first thousand miles. We're currently in Newport, Oregon, with plans to continue on down to San Diego and across the Hawaii before year's end. Believe me, the Hydrovane will be in use for most of the time. Below is a piece I wrote about the unit for our website and online blog (www.burnssail.com).

Thanks, again, for your guidance and assistance.

Captain Chris Burns
s/v Wind Dancer

>From our blog:

"A couple of equipment notes about the voyage so far. First and foremost, the best investment we made (albeit a late decision in the fitting-out process) was the Hydrovane wind vane self-steering system. This unit has performed flawlessly from the beginning, steering us hundreds of miles under sail. For the first time in our sailing lives we've been able to concentrate on navigation and other aspects of running the boat without being locked to the helm. After a four-hour watch, we're not completely beat as we would be steering by hand. Plus, the Hydrovane -- or "Hydie" as she's been dubbed is much better at keeping a downwind course that we are. Even in rough seas and 30 knots of breeze, Hydie kept the sails full and drawing all the time, something we couldn't have done ourselves. We are both amazed and delighted."

....and more:

From: Chris Burns [mailto:burnssail@hotmail.com]
Sent: August-09-07 11:30 AM
To: 'Will Curry'
Subject: RE: Hydrovane

Will:

You certainly may add our comments to your website. We are so jazzed about the Hydrovane we hope others will make the same decision we did. Almost every day other cruisers come by to look at it and ask questions.

Fair winds,

Chris

The Burns Family from Juneau , Alaska - Chris and crew & FAIR WINDS a Catalina 36

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED APRIL 2008 - Peterson 44

"....can't say enough good things about your windvane."

From: Wendell Nicholson [mailto:quluda41@msn.com]
Sent: April-28-08 11:29 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: a missing piece

Hello John

It has been a few years since I have talked with you so you probably don't remember me. I have a Peterson 44 which came with an old Hydrovane when I bought it 10 years ago. You helped me update it to the current model (VXA2D I believe). I sailed to Hawaii and back three years ago and can't say enough good things about your windvane. I had 2 crew members on board, who had sailed with the monitor before and liked the Hydrovane much more. One big advantage, is that in the middle of the night on the ocean, when a large container ship appears out of nowhere, it is very easy to quickly take over control of the wheel and then just as easy to set up the Hydrovane again. I actually use it quite a bit when I'm sailing by myself in the summertime (I live in Port Townsend, WA) around here.

Well I need a part from you. Last summer I accidently lost the knob for the axis control over board. Can you send me one?

Thanks, Wendell

…and response to my request to put this on the website:

Hey John

I have no problem with you putting my email on your website. And use me for a reference; although I might talk someone's ear off about the Hydrovane.

Sorry I don't have any pictures on the computer. I still use old fashion photo equipment. I could send you one in the mail if you like.

Locking pin wins hands down over a t-shirt; never wear the suckers.

All the best, Wendell

P.S. Yes Cynthia has already contacted me.

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED APRIL 2008 - Mason 33

"'Heidi' helms in fluky light winds like a champ, following every shift with unerring accuracy."

From: windsaloft@rmisp.com [mailto:windsaloft@rmisp.com]

Sent: April-24-08 7:40 PM

To: will@hydrovane.com

Subject: two photos

Will

Thanks for the reminder email --- these have been in the drafts folder for a few days.

While I always thought the Hydrovane was for relief in bigger weather, there was this one day about 5 miles off Point Loma when we were bedevilled by 3-7 knot winds, light and variable in direction.  As is wont to happen on those days, wind direction changes of 60-70 degrees.  Our heavy boat is hard to get going, and once going, slows quickly if you get off your trim.

After a few hours of frustratingly slow progress, we said "let's play with the Hydrovane".

To our disgust, "Heidi" helms in fluky light winds like a champ, following every shift with unerring accuracy.  So, we let her.  I vacationed back in the dinghy enjoying the beautiful weather while my boat partner Kimi wondered if I wanted lemon in my tea or not..........

"The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails." (and pulls out the Hydrovane) William Arthur Ward

Kimi and Terri

Mason 33 - in light fluky winds

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED APRIL 2008 - Colvic Countess 37

"Infact we couldn't believe how well it worked - brilliant!"

From: jonathan.d.harrison@uk.pwc.com [mailto:jonathan.d.harrison@uk.pwc.com]
Sent: April-21-08 7:00 AM
To: will@hydrovane.com
Subject: Replacement shaft

Will,

I assume your Nottingham workshop got the L shaft back ok??

We've had 10 days away on the boat and can report the Hydrovane is absolutely superb!

I attach a picture of it on the boat when afloat and some pictures of it in use.

The first day out we had light winds and were close hauled - we set the boat up, pulled the retaining pins out, and it just worked - absolutely magic!! That day it sailed us for 8 hours without a hand on it. It performed equally well with a 30 knots of wind on the beam and 10 knots of wind from astern. Infact we couldn't believe how well it worked - brilliant!

The boat (which has always been a handful in reverse) is actually a little more stable - we leave the Hydrovane locked fore-aft and this seems to help her track a little better and we did the impossible aft we launched - reversed 200 yards in a perfectly straight line out of the marina - never done that before!

As you can see from the pics - the handle of the rudder sits above the water when stationary, but when underway the stern wave causes it to be just below the water level - I assume this is therefore correctly placed? (The shaft sits around 3 inches above the water with no rudder on when stationary, and I would suggest the tip of the shaft is around 2 inches below the water when sailing).

I do have a couple of little points to raise:

1) The gold coloured metal on the tiller arm has started to get little rust spots on it already - should this happen? It happened when the boat was out of the water after we had fitted the unit - so it wasn't even salt water that caused it (it subsequently got a little worse when launched and used). Is this normal or should we do something to prevent it?

Editor's Comment - As explained in the TIPS section this is a bit of residue iron from the 'shot blasting' process. It will oxidize away soon enough.

2) When motoring we remove the vane, but the head of the unit still vibrates - obviously due to the prop wash on the rudder. I have checked the alignment of the drive unit and it has skewed off to one side very slightly since fitting (I will re-align and tighten the bolts up as much as possible next time we go down to the boat). Provided I re-align the rudder and lock it fore-aft when motoring, will this slight vibration damage the unit? (Obviously I will remove the rudder if doing lots of motoring.)

Editor's comment: On some boats vibration from the engine transmits through the hull and can cause either or both the rudder and drive unit to chatter. Best to minimize it by securing with strong bungee chords.

Thanks

Jonny

Colvic Countess 37

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED APRIL 2008 - Bavaria 34

"I just could'nt believe it, could it really be so easy?"

From: libera-2008@web.de [mailto:libera-2008@web.de]

Sent: April-24-08 12:21 PM

To: will@hydrovane.com

Subject: Hydrovane

Hi Will,

How are you? You remember me?

At the beginning of 2007 we got our "Hydrovane" from you. Now it's time to give you a response.

We thank you very, very much for our third hand on board.

After installing the vane we tested it the very next day with good winds about 5 Bft.

I pulled both lockpins, adjusted the vane, and - nothing. A few seconds later I remembered the ratio knob and put it in position.

And what now? the vane was steering our boat, better then I ever have done it.

I just couldn't believe it, could it really be so easy?

Never I would change this perfect vane against an electric steering system.

We use it for long and for short trips, vane mounted, adjusted and forget it.

Going astern under motor is better then before, going forward in a circle is a little bit bigger then before.

We just love it!

Have a good time,

Manfred Zimmermann, Schwäbisch Hall, Germany

Bavaria 34

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED APRIL 2008 - Tartan 4100

"It was fabulous."

From: JAMES FABRICK [mailto:jnf1@cox.net]

Sent: Saturday, April 05, 2008 1:29 PM

To: info@hydrovane.com

Subject: Freedom

Will and John,  After an unremarkable installation (meaning it was not difficult) we took GECKO out for sea trials with the new HYDROVANE. It was fabulous.  Worked in all points of sail, in 12-16 knots of wind. Recognized the need to have a balanced boat.  I'm now looking forward to the Passage from Mexico to French Polynesia. Thanks for getting the unit to me post haste and your support, will keep you posted of our travels.  Jim Fabrick s/v GECKO

Tartan 4100

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED MARCH 2008 - Kaufman 47

"Without our ‘happy wanderer’ we would be bereft!!!"

"...its an amazing piece of wizardry!"

From: Paul and Harriet [mailto:anahi@mailasail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2008 5:56 PM
To: sherry@hydrovane.com
Subject: Hydrovane

Hi Sherry just to say our hydrovane is fantastic – thank you! We have sailed 7000 miles so far and now mid Pacific. Without our ‘happy wanderer’ we would be bereft!!! Kind regards Paul and Harriet Hayes of Anahi

….and a latter response:

No problem with the website, we are a Kaufman 47 centre cockpit nearly 25 years old now.  We call the vane 'Happy Wanderer'…..  If you care to look at my blogs on www.mailasail.com click on web diary and then Anahi you get lots of mentions especially on the Atlantic passage I think and some photos too. I can’t send photos from sea but if you can’t find any let me know and I will send when we get to Marquesas.   Try Portabelo to Panama Canal blog where we had to use the rudder of the vane when our steering broke down in the middle of the busiest shipping lane! Feel free to quote..... thanks again its an amazing piece of wizardry!  Regards, Harriet 

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED FEBRUARY 2008 - Bowman 40

"....... Portugal to the Bahamas 99.5% under Hydrovane…much impressed the crew!"

"....... done about 40,000 miles now and not a part replaced, not much else on the boat does that!"

From: Alan Taylor [mailto:ajt@bellamanda.co.uk]
Sent: February-03-08 9:13 AM
To: jcurry@telus.net
Subject: Spares

Hi team hope all is well with you. Just back home for a month having sailed Bellamanda from Portugal to the Bahamas 99.5% under Hydrovane…much impressed the crew!

I think my Hydrovane must have done about 40,000 miles now and not a part replaced, not much else on the boat does that!

Can you supply me with a spare blade cover please? (Red with or without the advert!) I need it this month here in the UK, thanks. Let us know cost etc.

Regards Alan

editor - Alan is the Past Commodore of OCC (Ocean Cruising Club)

Bowman 40 - Note arch & davits installed to accommodate the Hydrovane

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED JANUARY 2008 - Hallberg Rassy 342

"I usually wait for their eyes to widen, and the jaws to drop and then tell them to go and make the tea "while I watch my little gadget here".

From: Abdul Alkhulaifi [mailto:hamoor@talk21.com]
Sent: January-20-08 11:44 AM
To: Will Curry
Subject: RE: Hydrovane Cleaning

Hi Will

I attach 4 photographs of the Hydrovane on my Hallberg-Rassy 342. The boat is called 'Aagool' which is the Arabic name for "Camelthorn" which is a small desert bush ( 2 - 3 foot in Ht) with lots of thorns (surprise, surprise). It has a beautiful pink flower when the going is good, that is when it rains for more than one day a year (that is the desert for you). 

The boat is moored at the Ritz Carlton Marina, Doha, Qatar.

The hydrovane performs superbly and is very easy to put into action. The literature that came with it says that most people are surprised by how easy it is to operate once they get their hands on it. It is true, it is alot easier than one actually imagines. It is also an effective way to impress new crews. I usually wait for their eyes to widen, and the jaws to drop and then tell them to go and make the tea "while I watch my little gadget here".

Cheers,

Abdulaziz

Hallberg Rassy 342

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED JANUARY 2008 - Rival 38

"The hydrovane has never protested, it has kept the boat on course in light and strong winds dead aft running under parasail and in several severe gales on the way back to England."

Subject: Pictures
From: "Marion Faber" <marion@marionfaber.com>
Date: Tue, January 15, 2008 1:59 pm
To: will@hydrovane.com

Hi Will,

Good to meet you at the London Boatshow. As promised I attach a picture of Luna Quest, a Rival 38, sailing off Dominica. I bought the Hydrovane in 2005, had it shipped to Rhodes (a Greek island off the Turkish coast) and had it fitted in Turkey. It has steered the boat from Turkey to France, to Gibraltar and the Canary Islands, across to St Lucia up to Antigua then back via Bermuuda to the Azores and Falmouth in England. The Hydrovane has never protested, it has kept the boat on course in light and strong winds dead aft running under parasail and in several severe gales on the way back to England. The Rival 38 is a semi-long/semi fin keel sloop designed by Peter Brett in 1970. She is strongly built with a displacement of 7.8 tons and superbly balanced. On the wind she will sail by herself.

I am extremely pleased with my investment. Your father may remember that I came to see him about changing the shaft from a long length to a medium length, which he recommended to me in the first place.

If there is anything that I can do to help promote Hydrovane, please let me know.

Kind regards,

W. Eric Faber

Rival 38 off Dominica

Nauticat 40 - Owner Ronald Hiemann

- see his complete Hydrovane installation project: http://www.bremerspeck.com/windvane.htm

Seen here installing a 'dummy' plastic shaft

"I should have bought it sooner."

Moody 35 - Owner Manfred Rausch in Travemunde, Germany

- see his award winning website http://www.mynetcologne.de/~nc-rauschma2/

"The Hydrovane was very easy to adjust and was running superb from the first moment without any problems." "Die Hydrovane war sehr einfach zu montieren und einzustellen, vom ertsen Moment an lief die Anlage ausgezeichnet und ohne Probleme."

Moody 35

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED AUGUST 2007 - Malo 39

"I found it could even cope on a dead-run in gusty winds, with a quartering, destabilizing swell, if I used it alongside the electric autopilot. With this configuration, even in these conditions, our fears about an involuntary gybe disappeared."

From: nicola & terry [mailto:terryflinn@onetel.com]
Sent: Thursday, August16, 2007 9:25 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: Hydrovane replacement vane cover

Hi John

I purchased a Hydrovane for Flinesse, our Malo 39, in the summer of 2004, with the ARC 2006 in mind. We're now back in the Solent after a trip of 16000 miles which spanned the UK to Greece, the Atlantic ARC crossing, Caribbean cruising from Grenada to the Bahamas, followed by a return to the UK through Bermuda and the Azores on ARC Europe . The return Atlantic legs were particularly tough because of the recent, continuous unsettled conditions. In the Atlantic we rated our Hydrovane as probably the most important bit of kit on board, especially when having to deal with winds that were above Force 5, often gusting to F8; on the last leg from the Azores to Falmouth we had these conditions the entire time and it would have been nice to have had even one day when the wind was less than 20 kts!

Without the Hydrovane, we would have been forced to steer by hand, because the autopilot on its own was simply overwhelmed. The crew were grateful from ever being forced to leave cover and sit at the wheel exposed to the strong wind and occasional torrential rain, not forgetting the spray, waves and rogue breakers. I was very pleased with the equipment. I found it could even cope on a dead-run in gusty winds, with a quartering, destabilizing swell, if I used it alongside the electric autopilot. With this configuration, even in these conditions, our fears about an involuntary gybe disappeared. As our voyage was 15 months long, the vane cover suffered from exposure to UV; the bright scarlet faded to pink and the top of the cover split as it is under tension; out in the Atlantic, where the winds were so strong, the vane occasionally flopped onto the ensign jackstaff and eventually it suffered a tear; repair was simple using duck tape! I now need to replace the cover and to match the boat colour scheme, navy would be my preference.

Best wishes Terry

MALO 39 - at sea & finishing the ARC

EMAIL RECIEVED AUGUST 2007 - 15 TON WOODEN STAYSAIL SCHOONER

"..........but out in a trade wind might not need to be touched for days."

From: Joe Aston [mailto:joeaston05@eircom.net]
Sent: Saturday, August 04, 2007 2:36 AM
Subject: RE: Emailing: Mattsfish2, The Tuna Kings

Hi John, yes, the global village is fun. 4 businesses a bit too much right now, .. The sailing trips are the main thing for me this time of the year, also the B&B, trying to make enough money to enjoy the winter and maybe start the next book, hopefully in the Balearics this time.

I attach a couple of photos of 'Anna M' setting out on that big cruise. The Hydrovane at a guess has done 20,000 miles now, and still going strong. Close to the land or in tricky conditions it of course requires supervision, but out in a trade wind might not need to be touched for days. The boat is about 15 tons and maybe it is slightly light for her, especially when the wind is light, but it is invaluable nonetheless. Of course John Illingworth saw to it that she is very well balanced in the first place. The vane works better when the wind is strong. I like the term a Frenchman used for it: 'un régulateur d'allure'. I only sail alone when I have to, but have done for example Trinidad/Barbados/ Granada and Isle of Man to here singlehanded. When I have novice guests out, it gives them the chance to get the hang of steering, while in fact myself and the Hydrovane have most of the work in hand!

So good health to yourself and Hydrovane!

Best regards,
Joe Aston
Horseshoe Cottage, Sherkin Island, Co.Cork, Ireland.
Tel. +353 28 20598
mobile, +353 87 7972366
email,
web-site, www.gannetsway.com

EDITOR'S NOTE: For whale watching from his 44 foot staysail schooner (picture below) or approved B&B accommodation in Horseshoe Bay on Sherkin Island, West Cork, Ireland contact Joe at joe@gannetsway.com or see his website at www.gannetsway.com

John Illingworth 44 foot Staysail Schooner

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED Mar. 5, '07 -Westerly Storm 33

"It feels like a set of extra wide tyres and the harder it blows it just grips...astounding."

"'Noddy' as it's become known, is undoubtedly my most valued piece of kit."

From: Miles Ashley [mailto:miles@bpogroup.com]
Sent: Monday, March 05, 2007 8:49 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: Stormruner- need new pin!

John,
By the way - I am SO pleased I bought this thing - particularly since nobody can seem to get my ST4000 to settle down. It feels like a set of extra wide tyres and the harder it blows it just grips.astounding. I've done one 600 mile single handed trip round Fastnet and just last week a 500 mile double handed trip in very heavy conditions and I have no idea how I'd have coped without it- lots of discussions with interested fellow boaters and I have recommended it without hesitation. I'm off to the Azores (www.stormrunner.co.uk ) in June in the AZAB (fundraiser for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign), and "Noddy" as it's become known, is undoubtedly my most valued piece of kit.

Regards, Miles Ashley

Westerly Storm 33 - Photo courtesy BEKEN of Cowes

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED Oct. 6, '06 -Najad 373

Eje is 85+ years old, still sailing and using his Hydrovane!

"Like many other of your customers we were amazed how simple it was to get the new crew-member to work"

"Also with "wing to wing" setting with the wind straight from astern the steering was perfect without any unexpected gybes"

From: Eje Sandberg [mailto:ejesandberg@tele2.se]
Sent: Friday, October 06, 2006 3:38 AM
To: John Curry
Subject: Hydrovane on Najad 373

Ulricehamn Oct. 6.. 2006

Hi John,

In June this year we installed your Hydrovane on our CHELONIA, a Najad 373, and we like to give you a brief report. The only difficulty was - as you surely remember- that I had to stop the mounting-work because one of the brackets was missing and you had to make preparations for an emergency delivery, The alarm could however be called off, when the bracket was found in the trunk of my car!!

Again, many,many excuses.

Besides that episode, the installation gave no problem thanks to the clear instructions of the manual. Because of the sloping transom of our boat you recommended use of an H-bracket plus an upper A-bracket, for which I am very glad. The equipment is thereby very stable and sturdy and a fine piece of engineering work. It was offset from the centreline in order not to interfere with the ladder.

There was no time for practical tests in our home-water so the Hydrovane had to start working in real when we set off on our trip from the Swedish West coast across the North Sea to Scotland , the Outer Hebrides and the Orkneys and back. Like many other of your customers we were amazed how simple it was to get the new crew-member to work; (once the sail-setting was in balance). We did appreciated the silence when it was in function and how well it steered; much better than we can. Also with "wing to wing" setting with the wind straight from astern the steering was perfect without any unexpected gybes

We have not yet had the opportunity to use the new rudder in real nasty weather, but we are confident that it will manage that as well.

We are happy and very satisfied.
both Eje and his son Staffan

Enclosed you will find a photo, which you are free to use as you like.

Najad 373

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED Nov. 27, '06 - Westerly Regatta 330

"I've noticed no performance difference on either port or starboard tacks, even at exceptional angles of heel, despite the vane being 30cm to starboard."

From: Gavin Blem [mailto:xxx@xxx.com]
Sent: Monday, November 27, 2006 2:31 AM
To: John Curry Subject: Hydrovane Mounting Position

John

If you ever need support for your recommendation, to mount the vane off centre to preserve fitted boarding ladders, then you are welcome to refer to this.

I've noticed no performance difference on either port or starboard tacks, even at exceptional angles of heel, despite the vane being 30cm to starboard. Yesterday in a club race on the Medway river in SSW 5 to 6, we had a man overboard at the gybe mark. He fortunately kept hold of the mainsheet as he went over, so he stayed with us and was able to climb aboard as soon as we'd hove to and let go the boarding ladder from its slip knot.

If we'd followed conventional wisdom or other vane designs, the boarding ladder would not have been there and we'd have had a great deal of difficulty getting him on board. We'd also certainly not have retained our position of 2nd out of 19!

Thanks again for your original advice and keep giving it!

Best regards
Gavin Blem

Westerly Reggata 330

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED Dec. 5, '06 - Prout Snowgoose 37 catamaran

"We also have a Furuno Navpilot but I much prefer to use the Hydrovane whenever I can."

From: Yvonne Kelly [mailto:yvonnekelly47@tiscali.co.uk]
Sent: Tuesday, December 05, 2006 4:18 AM
To: John Curry
Subject: Prout Snowgoose 37

Hello John,

Further to your recent mail, I am sending you 7 separate photos showing your VXA2 mounted on my Prout Snowgoose Elite catamaran. The stainless steel support frame was made by a local fabricator to guidance drawings supplied by Derek Daniels and incorporates our stern boarding ladder. It is mounted on the centre line and the shaft length was calculated by Derek to ensure that the depth of the rudder did not extend beyond our skegs and the top of the vane did not clash with the end of our boom.

I am very impressed with its performance and providing our sails are balanced so that the boat is not overpressed, the Hydrovane works very well. Our hydraulic wheel steering allows us to "feel" the load on the helm and yet also allows us to set the helm at midships and engage the Hydrovane without the need to lash the wheel. As you would expect, the Hydrovane does struggle when running in light winds and I am thinking about connecting a small rod-type autopilot to the hydrovane for use in those conditions. We also have a Furuno Navpilot but I much prefer to use the Hydrovane whenever I can.

Following my comments about our unexpected grounding last season, I have checked the shaft below the bottom bearing and, as far as I can tell, it is running true. I also checked the shaft diameter (28.6mm) and the diameter of the hole in the top of the rudder (29.2mm) and they seem about right, although I still have about 20 mm of fore and aft movement measured at the bottom of the rudder - what are the acceptable limits for this measurement?

Finally, as I mentioned in my previous e-mail, I would like to improve our stowage of the vane which we dismount when we are at anchor or in port. To this end, will you please give me a price for the following parts:-

Item 4 - Vane slot collar
Item 6 - Vane slot sleeve
Item 32 - Vane knob

Basically I want to be able to clamp the vane on the back of one of our cabin doors when it is not in use.

Regards Brian Kelly

Prout Snowgoose 37 - Note custom brackets on underside and unique ladder

UNSOLICITED EMAIL June '07 - HAM VENEEMA 9.9 CATAMARAN

"We have no doubts of the Hydrovane's ability to handle to cat and also it is a comfort to know we can use it as an emergency tiller. Sometimes we have used it to just assist when tacking, it just gives us a bit more umph!"

From: keith Meakin [mailto:keithandpam.twoeasy@hotmail.co.uk]
Sent: Sunday, June 17, 2007 8:06 AM
To: jcurry@telus.net
Subject: RE: Pictures

Hi John,

Glad you got the pictures okay, the cat is a Harm Veneema. Not a well known model at all, I think there were only 4 constructed. It was launched in 1989, we took ownership in July 2005.

We left England in July 2006 after fitting the Hydrovane when we were beached in Ilfracombe. We have played with the Hydrovane quite a few times when sailing in Brittany, letting it take over the boat during some quite hairy moments. It kept us on track in 20kn winds with no problems.

Also when going through the Raz de Seine, so it has been tried and proven. We haven't as yet let it take over for long periods mainly because we've had very light winds when going down the west coast of Portugal where we still are.

We have no doubts of the Hydrovane's ability to handle to cat and also it is a comfort to know we can use it as an emergency tiller. Sometimes we have used it to just assist when tacking, it just gives us a bit more umph!

We have some pictures of us in the water, that friends took however they are on a CD on the boat and we are in an internet bar at the moment. You may be able to see some of the pictures on our website www.meakintwoeasy.org.uk

I'll jpeg them and send them to you within the next few days.

Also we'll let you know a postal address and thanks for the gift.

Kind regards

Keith and Pam Meakin

From: "John Curry" To: "'keith Meakin'" Subject: RE: Pictures Date: Sat, 16 Jun 2007 11:31:19 -0700

Hi Keith

That is very kind of you to remember us. Now I have questions:

What model/kind of cat is it? Do you use the Hydrovane much? I trust it works well? Any offshore cruising? If by chance you had a shot of her in the water, showing more boat, and also the Hydrovane.maybe with the vane on........ My reason for asking is that, as I probably mentioned, we sell few Hydrovanes to multihull owners and have fewer photos. We need to better promote how well they work on multihulls - so I need evidence.

Can I reward you for those pictures by sending you one of the new locking pins - only need a mailing address.

We are very appreciative.

>Best regards John

HAM VENEEMA 9.9

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED Oct. 4, '06 - Ted Brewer Pilothouse 40

"I have owned a number of boats along the way many with different types of self steering, and by far the Hydrovane is my favorite."

From: svcubanacan@yahoo.com
Sent: Wednesday, October 04, 2006 11:11 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: re-build time

Good day John and family.

After leaving West Vancouver in January 1980 I have cruised for many thousands of miles. I have owned a number of boats along the way many with different types of self steering, and by far the Hydrovane is my favorite.

I maintain my lifestyle by doing all types of repair on other cruisers boats and over the years have yet to undertake a Hydrovane repair. This brings me to my point of this e-mail. My own unit, after much use, finally needs bearing and bushing replacements. My question to you is ...can I use heat on the casting in order to remove some of the frozen grub screws and maybe the more stubborn bushings?
Thank you for your time Brian

Brian's Ted Brewer Pilothouse 40

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED Sept. 11, '06 - Bowman 42

"The kit done exactly what it said on the box .... Even when the boat was obviously unbalanced, when running under main alone we were able to maintain our course .... the Hydrovane soon taught us how to get the best out of our boat "

From: Mark Owen [mailto:mp_owen@surfanytime.co.uk]
Sent: Monday, September 11, 20063:25 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: Hydrovane

John

Just thought I would drop you a quick line as we have just returned from our first proper shakedown trip with our new Hydrovane. The kit done exactly what it said on the box and steered us accurately for over 800 miles. Even when the boat was obviously unbalanced, when running under main alone we were able to maintain our course. However, the Hydrovane soon taught us how to get the best out of our boat, and we learnt a great deal on the ideal sail trim during our trip. We experienced one minor problem which I will come and see you about at Southampton. We appear to have some vertical movement on the top yoke type casting which tends to rise and fall as the vane is loaded and unloaded, this caused the worm and the gear to jam together and make remote adjustment difficult if not timed properly.

Anyway apart from this small teething problem we are very pleased with our new crew member and look forward to further adventures together.

Ps. As promised I have attached a couple of photos of the installation for your archive, although not evident from the pictures, the spacing teak pads were cross laminated from two pieces of 15mm teak glued at 90 degrees to each other to ensure that they will never crack. This was on the advise of the excellent boat builders at Northney Marine Services who made and shaped the blocks for us.

Best regards Mark Owen

BOWMAN 42

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED August 30, 2006 - Warrior 35

"Hydrovane still gets our vote as one of our best bits of kit on the boat."

From: Mike Eastman [mailto:mikeeastman@eclipse.co.uk]
Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2006 6:11 AM
To: sherry@hydrovane.com
Subject: Hydrovane part enquiry

Hello Please can you quote for supply of a new HEADING KNOB for our VXA1 model? To include postage to address below. After many years of needing nothing apart from the odd pin, we dropped this in the water in the Azores this summer. Hydrovane still gets our vote as one of our best bits of kit on the boat (Warrior 35 Mk 3, now on her 4th Atlantic crossing, all with H'vane, plus many miles in the Caribbean, Pacific and Mediterranean). Thanks Mike Eastman, Devon

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED August 3, 2006 - Beneteau 411

"The Hydrovane worked perfectly first time even when the wind came round on the stern quarter." "Many thanks for a superb piece of equipment will which greatly improve my enjoyment while sailing and give a much greater degree of redundancy and safety."

-----Original Message-----
From: bamboo [mailto:bamboo.jordan@btinternet.com]
Sent: Thursday, August 03, 20061:30 PM
To: Will Curry
Subject: Hydrovane Installation

Hi Will,

You will be pleased to hear that the hydrovane has been installed successfully on to my Beneteau 411. My cousin and I fitted it yesterday. I decided to place the hydrovane in the central position with the "A" brackets spaced either side of the stern access to the bathing platform. It doesn't obstruct access too much and it gives a nice secure feeling when standing on the platform between the "A" bracket arms. Even when healed and doing 8kts in force 6! It means that I can attend to the hydrovane whilst underway without the risk of falling off the stern.

My cousin used to own and run a boat yard in Tortola, British Virgin Isles, so his experience and help in fitting the hydrovane was invaluable. I thought it would be difficult but it only took a day to install the three brackets and "A" frames. I have used teak blocks on the outdside bedded down with sealant adhesive and thick ply inside also bedded down with sealant adhesive. The assembly is now very rigid. All the critical dimensions have been satisfied.

Today we took the yacht out for sea trials. The wind was north westerly force 6 up the Bristol Channel. We had the third reef in the genoa and the first reef in the mainsail and the sea was moderately rough. Even so we were doing between 7 - 8kts close hauled and on a reach. The hydrovane worked perfectly first time even when the wind came round on the stern quarter.

What I need to do now is to refine the settings on the vane axis and the ratio control and with a little bit of practice I should be able to achieve a nice straight wake in all conditions. Although I think I will wait for a less windy day to play around with the hydrovane and build confidence in manipulating the settings.

I can only say that I have been very impressed with the quality of the equipment and the integrity of the design.

Many thanks for a superb piece of equipment will which greatly improve my enjoyment while sailing and give a much greater degree of redundancy and safety.

I look forward to seeing you all again at the Southampton Boat Show this year.

Best Wishes to all at Hydrovane

Malcolm Jordan

Beneteau 411

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED July 19, 2006 - Niagara 35

"It belongs in the Smithsonian!"

From: tom ehmann [mailto:tomehmann@yahoo.com]
Sent: Wednesday, July 19, 2006 8:49 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: well done

Hi John

Just a note to say that the hydrovane worked great on our trip. Over 11,000 miles and it worked well in all conditions on our Niagara 35. Steered better than we could in a gale that saw gusts of 50 knots. We knew lots of other cruisers turning on their engines since their steering vanes couldn't handle less than 5 knots but we just drifted along using the hydrovane - e.g. all the way through the ITCZ. It belongs in the Smithsonian!

Tom Ehmann, S/V Aurora B

NIAGARA 35

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED June 2, 2006 - Moody 376

"It performed faultlessly right from the start just as your literature said it would! We are really impressed with it."

From: nige.al@virgin.net [mailto:nige.al@virgin.net]
Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 7:13 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: Thanks.

Dear John,

I thought you might like to know that we have now fitted the new Hydrovane to our Moody 376 - "Strummer". I fitted it off-centre to avoid moving the bathing ladder and had a hole made through the bathing platform to accomodate the shaft as per one of the fitting options that you sent. I had the hole made professionally but did the remainder of the work myself - no problems encountered and I think the end result looks very neat. (Pictures attached - please feel free to use these as you wish).

We set off from Syracusa in Sicily heading for Dubrovnik in Croatia and engaged the Hydrovane for the first time as soon as we left port. It performed faultlessly right from the start just as your literature said it would! We are really impressed with it.

Thanks to you and your team for a great product.

Nigel Battarbee and Alison Timms "Yacht Strummer"

MOODY 376

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED April 12/06 - Beneteau First 38

"Miles had steered me across the Atlantic perfectly 5 times. It is also one of the few things on the boat which appreciates in value."

From: Roy Gee [mailto:roygee@ntlworld.com]
Sent: Wednesday, April 12, 2006 12:01 PM
To: Will Curry
Subject: Re: Hydrovane Pins

Will.

Thanks for prompt reply.4 pins, please and I will do a bank transfer. I have a Beneteau First 38 which is in Puerto Calero,Lanzarote,Canary Islands. I will try to take some photos next time I have my Hydrovane on. I call it 'Miles' after my hero Miles Davis. He did an album 'Miles Ahead'.Mine is Miles Astern. I used to be on Derek's (previous owner of Hydrovane) publicity as I said Miles had steered me across the Atlantic perfectly 5 times. It is also one of the few things on the boat which appreciates in value.

Regards,Roy Gee.

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED April /06 - Westerly Oceanlord 41

"I can't imagine why any yacht would a) be without one, and b) want to use any another system."

From: Skardu (Mark & Quintin) [mailto:available on request]
Sent: Thursday, April 06, 2006 2:25 PM
To: 'John Curry'; sherry@hydrovane.com
Subject: RE: Free locking pin

Hi John & Sherry,

Thanks for your generous offer. Order details for the vane cover are below, but in the meantime....

Our hydrovane (a.k.a. "Scarlet") has been a complete star the last 18 months. We've covered over 18,000nm, with her steering for most of them. Our autopilot died on us about half way through our adventure, but we found that Scarlet filled in quite nicely even while we were motoring, as long as there was even the lightest of winds. I must admit, that she took a little getting used to (the tips on your website are very useful, but we discovered them 12 months too late!), but now that we have the hang of her, I can't imagine why any yacht would a) be without one, and b) want to use any another system.

At one point, crossing the Bay of Biscay at the start of our trip, we lost our wheel steering in the middle of the night. Fortunately the main rudder still worked, but it was very reassuring to know that if that went too, we'd still have scarlet to steer us on. At another point, we got knocked down sailing to Colombia, and the force of the wave that hit us twisted the top half of Scarlet through 90 degrees. Sadly that put her out of commission until we made landfall a few days later, but despite our worst fears, all we needed to do was release a couple of bolts, and gently crow-bar her back into place..... she was good as new again, with not even a hint of damage to the vane. I bet the plywood vanes of other manufacturers wouldn't have stood up as well.

I'm not sure how old Scarlet is, but if the previous owners of Skardu put her on before they started their circumnavigation, I have to guess that she has at least 70,000nm under her rudder, and she's still going strong!!!

On that note, I'd still very much like to order a new RED vane cover. Ours is currently wearing through and looking a little faded, and we don't really want to change Scarlet's name to Rose!

It might be a bit tight to have the package reach us in NZ before we set off again, so if could, could you be so kind as to send it to the following address instead. It may also make shipping cheaper/easier: .........................

Many thanks again,
Best, Mark

Westerly Overlord 41 - 'Skardu' see: www.skardu.net

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED May 22/06 - Rival 32

"I simply 'changed down' on the 'gearbox', and the problem solved itself. Life returned to normal, and the subsequent cup of coffee was enjoyed particularly well!"

"By the way, I have called the unit 'Megan', after a friends daughter who, on her very first time at the helm ( 12 years old at the time) steered a straighter course than any adult with years of experience (including yours truly!)."

From: brian case [mailto:briancase_6@hotmail.com]
Sent: Monday, May 22, 2006 1:59 PM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: ocean sunrise pics

Hi John.

It took long enough, but here are the pics I promised. 316 shows the North Somerset coast, and shows the tiller lashed midships; 318 shows the strong tides we get in the Bristol Channel, hydrovane coping well; 326 shows the vanes rope and pulley whipped to the wind generators tripod; 335 is my baby alongside in Swansea, our first real trip with the new self steering kit.

I have sailed the hydrovane in winds from F3 to F9. It really does 'just work'. It took me a few attempts to fine tune the windvane to sail a specific course, the trick was to trim the sails properly (just like it says in the handbook!!). The unit works equally well on all points of sail, but has yet to be tested in large quartering seas. This will be an important test as Ocean Sunrise hates these conditions, and is a right bugger to steer! If the unit copes with this, I will be very pleased, but based on its performance so far, I have no real doubts. For the hell of it, I took her out in a force nine, just to see if the unit would cope. The strong wind made the windvane move through its full range, and the rudder over-steered badly. This caused the boat to alternately luff up, and bear away dramatically, and made life awful. I simply 'changed down' on the 'gearbox', and the problem solved itself. Life returned to normal, and the subsequent cup of coffee was enjoyed particularly well! I hope to take a couple of weeks off in June, intending to visit Lundy Island, Padstow, the Scilly Isles, and the Gower coast. It will all be single-handed, so should be the last 'test' my new hydrovane will have. By the way, I have called the unit 'Megan', after a friends daughter who, on her very first time at the helm ( 12 years old at the time) steered a straighter course than any adult with years of experience (including yours truly!). Hope the enclosed are useful, and that all is well in Canada.

Best wishes, Brian Case

Rival 32

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED (see above) Jan 20/06

"The only drawback with my new 'crew' that I can foresee is that it wont stand its round in the pub!!!!!!"

"I can see it is about as fragile as my Landrover!"

From: brian case [mailto:xxxxxxxxx]
Sent: Saturday, January 21, 2006 11:34 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com; David Sloggit
Subject: its fitted

Hi John. Well, my dear old Rival now sports a nice new Hydrovane, to the envy of my nearest neighbour!! The actual assembly of the unit was just as straight forward as you told me at Southampton (have to confess, I didn't really believe you!!). Actually, it was a piece of cake! Making the wooden pads to compensate for the angle of the transom was another matter. What a pain in the a**! I tried to get too clever, I think, using templates and a protractor to measure the angle, and then trying to translate that to the pad. Failed miserably!! In the end I just did it by eye, taking the old view that if it looks right, it is right. Worked perfectly. Don't know why I didn't do it that way in the first place. Would have saved me a few hours of work. All that is left now is to go out to play!!

By the way. You guys certainly now how to package your product. The first (in truth, the only) difficulty I encountered was getting the parts out of the boxes! The 'fragile' stickers are definitely a euphemism. Now I have seen the Hydrovane up close and personal, I can see it is about as fragile as my Landrover!

I'll let you know how I get on with the new 'crew' when I get a chance to take 'Ocean Sunrise' out to sea, but that may be a few months yet. I don't think I will have any problems though. The product just looks right. Looks good on the boat too. The only drawback with my new 'crew' that I can foresee is that it wont stand its round in the pub!!!!!! Hey Ho, its an imperfect world!

Cheers, and all the best to all.

Brian.

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED Mar. 5/06 - Ta Chiao built CT 47, 15 tons

"My stepson couldn't believe how well it steered the boat.....We had motored all night utilizing the auto pilot and that didn't really hold the course at all......yawing 15-20 degrees around the course. The vane held to a degree or two!"

From: John Shugar [mailto:windswept11@comcast.net]
Sent: Sunday, March 05, 2006 5:49 PM
To: will@hydrovane.com
Subject: Vane specs/parts sheet

Hi Will,

The vane worked great! AS I knew it would given my past experience with the RVG unit. On Feb. 10th we finally relaunched Windsweptt II. My step-son flew in from Pensylvannia (after a day's delay for the 18" snow they got) and we sailed the boat back south to our area. We motored throughout the night but by morning we had 18-20 knots of apparent wind. First time we sailed the boat, new mailsail and everything to shake out. But the vane steered the course as steady as it could in 5-6 foot of slop, variable wind directions and strength. My stepson couldn't believe how well it steered the boat. We had motored all night utilizing the auto pilot and that didn't really hold the course at all......yawing 15-20 degrees around the course. The vane held to a degree or two!

Thanks.John Shugar

RESPONSE - see above - Mar. 7/06

"...although she is almost 4,000 lbs heavier (15 ton CT47), the Hydrovane handles her with ease!" "It says something, I think, that 25 years later Hydrovane is still around and upgraded to an even better design than when I first discovered it. The other vane manufacturer is not."

From: windswept11@comcast.net [mailto:windswept11@comcast.net]
Sent: Tuesday, March 07, 2006 7:40 AM
To: John Curry
Subject: Endorsement

Hi John,

Of course you can use my quote on the vane. I have waited years to get my hands on the Hydrovane and have had quite a bit of discussion with others about it already. .........................

Thanks for all your help and wish you continued success on sales. Incidentally, the first time I coveted the Hydrovane was 25 + years ago when I built a boat from a bare hull. That was a tight budget project and I couldn't afford to buy the Hydrovane so I used a competitor's unit that simply was not rugged enough for the boat and the way I sailed it. It failed three different times, the last on a 13 day trip from Florida's west coast to Bermuda with my 66 year old mother as crew! We had to hand steer the last 10 days through absolutely the worst weather I have sailed in on the Atlantic!

But it has all worked out. I sold that boat with the vane and now I have an even grander boat, and although she is almost 4,000 lbs heavier, the Hydrovane handles her with ease! I look forward to many more sailings with no problems. It says something, I think, that 25 years later Hydrovane is still around and upgraded to an even better design than when I first discovered it. The other vane manufacturer is not.

John Shugar

EMAIL RECEIVED Mar. 1/06 - Westerly Falcon 10M

"I have since learnt through experience what a perfect helmsman my Hydrovane makes"

From: Julian Mandiwall [mailto:julianmandiwall@waitrose.com]
Sent: Wednesday, March 01, 2006 10:17 AM
To: John Curry
Subject: Re: Copy email

Hi, yes of course, use my words.

I bought it at a boat show some years ago not knowing how good it would be. I chose it for only one reason, that it gave an auxiliary rudder facility, and that need was paramount in my book. I have since learnt through experience what a perfect helmsman my Hydrovane makes. Just fantastic, never argues, steers a better course than I can and needs no food.

It is fitted to a 10m Westerly Falcon.

Kind Regards
Julian Mandiwall

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED Feb. 13/06 - Island Packet 45

"So far this thing is a beauty. Tracks very well even with an offset and underpower.... you were right about how easy this is ..."

From: Mark Rogers [mailto:mark_w_rogers@hotmail.com]
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2006 10:33 AM
To: will@hydrovane.com
Subject: Hydrovane test report

Will & John & Paul

So far this thing is a beauty. Tracks very well even with an offset and underpower. Testing will continue, but so far you were right about how easy this is ...
1. pick and course and stabilze the boat
2. pull the pins and turn vane leading edge into the wind
3. and she tracks in a straight line

was able to make small course changes by rotating the vane - boat simply tracked around. more tests under sail on the next windy day

Island Packet 45

___________________________________________________________________________

Received June 15, 2006

From MJ Patterson's Website - 'Wheatstrong' a Kelly Peterson 44

".... with winds up to 50kts true (according to B&G). "Irene" stayed on the same point of sail, with a triple-reefed main and a storm stays'l, while we stayed below...."

http://www.wheatstrong.com/hydrovane.htm

Wheatstrong has a Hydrovane windvane which steered for over 15,000nm during our Pacific voyages. The Hydrovane is an auxiliary rudder type windvane, rather than a servo-pendulum, so it has no lines to the wheel. The idea is that you trim the sails and adjust the boat's rudder so that the boat is on the point of sail that you want, then use the wheel-brake to lock the boat's rudder. Then you turn the leading edge of the vane into the wind and engage the mechanism and it steers using its own small rudder (about 36x10x2 inches, nylon).

I ordered a hydrovane with a longer shaft so that the gearbox and head are above my sternbox. The install was very easy. All you have to do is mount the Hydrovane vertically with the bottom of the shaft two inches above the water. It can be mounted off center if you need to. I drilled only four holes in the transom for the bolts for the two mounting brackets: two holes above the deck just below the caprail and two about a foot above the waterline. I made teak pads to fit between the mounting brackets and and the hull and had stainless steel backing plates fabricated to distribute the load on the inboard side of the hull. I faired the lower teak pad with epoxy to keep it from getting too thin on the upper edge.

The vane's angle of attack, and therefore the heading, are adjusted from the cockpit using a small (1/4") continuous line that turns the hydrovane head. I ran the line through a sheave with a bungee cord on the end of it; I attached the bungee to the port cleat on the cockpit coaming so you just reach back and to the left from the helm in order to adjust the vane. Course corrections essentially involve steering to the new point of sail, balancing and trimming the sailplan, setting the main rudder trim, and setting the windvane angle of attack. It takes a few iterations to settle down but then you're good until the wind changes or you need to change course.

The Hydrovane worked very well when sailing to windward, pretty well when broad reaching or running and not so well when beam reaching.

The KP44 sails easily to weather and can be balanced to maintain a beat even without a windvane. It was easy to get the boat balanced and the windvane steering on a close reach or close hauled.

The hydrovane steered well with the wind on the aft quarter or from astern. Even running DDW was no problem for it as long as the sail plan was balanced and the seas were not confused.

I found our KP44 difficult to balance well enough to sail consistently on a beam reach without some main rudder movement. The boat would end up heading up or falling off in gusts or lulls and over-power the hydrovane's smaller rudder. I think this probably would not have happened with a servo-pendulum type, since they can steer with much more force by moving the ship's rudder. Hydrovane has since come up with a six-inch longer rudder as an option.

The Hydrovane can be locked with its rudder amidships by inserting a pin in the shaft at the gearbox/head. This is easily done from the deck. Once locked down the Hydrovane rudder exerts no influence. You can motor all you want with the Hydrovane locked down like this but I think it must generate a little drag and is probably needless wear on the Hydrovane as it tends to vibrate from the prop turbulence.

For motoring long distances in calm seas we remove the vane, lock the main rudder 'midships, and use a Simrad TP30 tiller autopilot to drive the Hydrovane's tiller. I had a mount and tiller extension built for a tiller autopilot on the pushpit and used that to drive the hydrovane while motoring. This worked very well in fairly calm conditions. But it would get in a feedback loop and spiral off course if seas were big. But then you remove the TP30, fold up the bracket, and sail in those conditions.

In cases where we are not going to use the Hydrovane for extended periods of sailing or motoring we take the hydrovane rudder off. This involves pulling a pin from the base of the shaft where it goes through the top of the rudder. You have to be at water level to do this so being in a dinghy or stern-to at a dock or quay is helpful. But if you're agile you can climb over the transom and squat on the hydrovane support; hang on with one hand and use the other to pull the pin. The rudder is heavier than water so I have it secured with a length of line as a precaution at all times. Once the pin is pulled I just pull the rudder up using the line. Putting the rudder back on is the reverse process and is a little trickier when hanging on with one hand because you need to hold the rudder at the right orientation to line up the holes for the pin.

• No lines to steering wheel
• Can serve as emergency rudder
• Almost maintenance free, no rust or corrosion
• Simple install, unobtrusive

• Requires a light touch to get everything balanced and staying on course, but extremely reliable once it's 'dialed in'.
• Cost $4500
• Finicky on a beam reach
• Cannot pull rudder up easily, have to pull a pin and remove it from the base of the shaft (unlike other types which can swing the rudder up out of the water)

We had to handsteer on only one passage, to the Va'vau Group, Tonga, when it was 35-40 knots from astern with 25 foot following seas. The boat would surf down the waves and spin out at the bottom in the windshadow of the wave if the helmsman didn't take corrective action. So we had probably 20 hours of hand steering over the course of a year. Not bad.

Our passage from Hawaii to San Francisco included a heavy gale in the last 600 nm with winds up to 50kts true (according to B&G). "Irene" stayed on the same point of sail, with a triple-reefed main and a storm stays'l, while we stayed below, only popping up every 15 minutes to scan the horizon and marvel at the size of the waves.

KP44s are well known for weather helm - in San Francisco bay we often sail with too much canvas up in 'the slot' and end up having to wrestle the wheel to leeward to maintain course. Reefing and trimming properly eliminates this problem, and saves the arm muscles. A servo-pendulum rig will turn the wheel against a large force in a strong wind so you may get away with an over-powered rig for longer than you will with the Hydrovane. In that same wind the Hydrovane will be overpowered by the weather helm. The vane will go all the way over and turn the Hydrovane rudder until it is stalled and the boat will head up anyways. Once you reef and trim, the Hydrovane does fine in pretty much any wind.

I think having the Hydrovane made me much more aware of helm trim and sailplan balance simply because it was essential to the proper operation of the device. In fact, we had a crew member on for our passage through Mexico to the Galapagos and he never did get the hang of adjusting the Hydrovane.

Hydrovane is now producing the bigger rudder (six inches longer with the same profile). If I start another refit to go cruising again the bigger rudder will be on my 'buy' list ($625 ugh). Also on my list would be the new 'stubby' vane (12 inches shorter and 8 inches wider) because the standard vane collides with my wind generator mast/outboard crane on certain points of sail.

One important thing that I really like about the Hydrovane is the simplicity of the system and its heavy-duty, bullet proof constuction. It's just really well built and not a lot can go wrong with it. It requires no maintenance other than to wash it with fresh water and detergent, let dry, and spray with WD40 - ONCE A YEAR. Nice.

Kelly Perterson 44 - Wheatstrong

EMAIL RECEIVED Feb. 8/06 - Contessa 32

"Still the best bit of boating kit I have ever bought!"

".......single-handed in storms up to Force 12 was not fun and I would have betrothed myself to my 'Harry' Hydrovane once I got back to land safely!"

Thanks John,

I'd be more than happy to endorse the hydrovane and I can lend some little authority to an endorsement. I sailed single handed from Southampton to the Indian Ocean in 1999 in a Contessa 32 but unfortunately had to beat back into Cape Town after breaking my hand. Believe me, single-handedly, single-handed in storms up to Force 12 was not fun and I would have betrothed myself to my "Harry" Hydrovane once I got back to land safely!

Regards Graham

UNSOLICITED EMAIL RECEIVED Dec. 10/05 - Amazon 37

"........all with our Hydrovane and only very, very rarely using an electric autopilot. We simply coudn't imagine setting off with out"

"(which we dearly love and it's name is "Merlin" because he is magical)"

From: bud carney [
Sent: Saturday, December 10, 2005 10:17 AM
To: hydrovane@mailasail.com
Subject: RE: Merlin

Dear John: We have an Amazon 37 foot steel sailboat built 18 years ago in Vancouver in that time we have sail the west coast of US and made the curcuit of the Caribbean and central America , several trips to Bermuda, crossed to Europe thru to Turkey and now back in the Caribbean and presently on our way to Panama - all with our Hydrovane and only very, vey rarely using an electric autopilot. We simply coudn't imagine setting off with out. "Merlin". Bud and Kathy Carney - Invictus IV

From: "John Curry"
To:
Subject: Merlin
Date: Tue, 23 Aug 2005 08:40:34 -0700
Hi Bud and Kathy

I could not help but to notice your enthusiasm for 'Merlin'. Surprisingly, the Hydrovane is so often christened with a new name - and hardly ever the same one - I do like 'Merlin the Magician'. What kind of boat do you have? I would like to add you to our reference book. Best regards John

>Hi Sherry - we are in need of a vane cover for our hydrovane (which we >dearly love and it's name is "Merlin" because he is magical) - we would >like a blue one if possible.

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED NOV. 22, 2005 FROM SEATTLE - BAJA HAHA

"I was impressed at how comfortable the crew on the other boat was. They knew their Hydrovane was up to the task."

From: denny flannigan [mailto:kokomodenny@yahoo.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 22, 2005 11:22 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: self steering

John, I was recently racing a boat in the 2005 baja ha ha. We were under spinnaker in 20 to 25 kts of wind with mixed seas and I was hand steering a 47 ft boat. Next to us was a 44 ft boat that had a Hydrovane driving. The wind and seas were such that our auto pilot was of little use. I was impressed at how comfortable the crew on the other boat was. They knew their Hydrovane was up to the task. Soon I will be embarking on my own voyage and self steering is something I want on my boat. Will you be at the Seattle boat show this January? If not when is the next time you plan to do the Seattle show?

Impressed,

Denny Flannigan

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED AUGUST 24, 2005 FROM AMERICAN SAMOA - Pearson 35

"I am extremely pleased; if the unit had not functioned well my marriage would be on the rocks."

From: Daniel Paull [mailto:Daniel.Paull@vmmc.org
Sent: Wednesday, August 24, 2005 4:00 PM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: My Hydrovane

I purchased a Hydrovane about one year ago. My boat, which is a Pearson 35 sloop has been out of the water in Raiatea, French Polynesia. I recently went there from Seattle, carrying the Hydrovane as airplane luggage and installed the unit. The components you provided were definitely the correct size and combination for my boat. As soon as the installation was complete, we sailed 1200 miles to American Samoa without any "trials". The moment we left the breakwater and had the sails up, I engaged the unit and it sailed a good course. There was no drama or learning curve. On that passage we hand steered for a total of about 3 hours, during which the boat was very unbalanced by an unfavorable sail combination. We mostly had light following winds. We did not jibe once! I guess I should be ashamed, but when we were well away from any land in the tradewind, we just slept all night. I am extremely pleased; if the unit had not functioned well my marriage would be on the rocks.

I did have one problem about which I would like your comments. On two occasions I either hove to briefly or backed the boat up to set an anchor without putting in the rudder lock pin and I discovered that the whole control unit had shifted in position on the rudder tube. I presume it was twised out of position by the tiller. This occurred even though the bolts were all quite tight. I guess the bottom line is that the system will not tolerate any backward movement of the boat at all without the rudder locked? Any comments or suggestions? (EDITOR'S NOTE - The answer is yes to locking the rudder when hoved to)

I had one observation which might be of value to other owners: We had about 12 hours of strong wind during which we sailed downwind with only a small "spitfire" jib. I started out with the jib trimmed far out but the boat kept rounding up and the unit could not hold a good course. I then sheeted the jib in tight, even though we were running, and that kept the bow from rounding up and allowed the Hydrovane to steer a good course with us travelling about 5 knots.

It is obvious that a great deal of thought has gone into the design and manufacture of this extraordinary device. The lack of lines running through the cockpit to the wheel is a big plus. Thanks very much. You may quote me however you see fit.

Dan Paull

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED JUNE 21, 2005 - RORC 39

"Having no previous experience (with self-steering) we set out to sea, balanced the sails, set the vane and watched in awe as the Hydrovane steered the boat on all points of sail."

From: Terry Wilson - yacht 'MOONSTONE'
Sent: Tuesday, June 21, 2005 12:58 PM
To: sherry@hydrovane.com
Subject: Thanks
Sherry,

Just a quick thank you for your super service. I collected the spares,vane cover & ball race & after overhauling the hydrovane, fitted it to my RORC 39. Having no previous experience (with self-steering) we set out to sea, balanced the sails, set the vane and watched in awe as the hydrovane steered the boat on all points of sail. The only problem was the total disgust from our best helmsman that Harriet, as we fondly now call her, can steer a better course than him!!

Many thanks
Terry Wilson
P.S. The ships chocolate supply lasts longer as well!

UNSOLICTED EMAIL RECEIVED AUGUST 26, 2004 - Tradewind 35

"As I left harbour I engaged the Hydrovane expecting to experiment and learn how to get it working properly. In fact no experimenting was required - I could not believe how it immediately went into action and has required no fiddling of any sort - first setting was the only setting required over 540 miles. It performed superbly in all conditions."

From: Robin Anderson [mailto:robertlanderson@btinternet.com]
Sent: Thursday, August 26, 2004 10:30 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: Tradewind 35 report

Report herewith on my experience with the new Hydrovane which I recently fitted to my Tradewind 35, "Pleiades of Birdham".

The unit was very well packaged thanks, and fitting instructions excellent.

Fitting was easy - I fitted it with the boat in the water, assisted by a friend. It was a particular pleasure to dismantle all the blocks and lines from the previous ________ servo pendulum.

I did not get a chance to test the Hydrovane until I set out on my annual cruise. I have just returned after 540 miles cruising to the Isles of Scilly and return to Chichester. Rotten weather including several gales - a good trial.

As I left harbour I engaged the Hydrovane expecting to experiment and learn how to get it working properly. In fact no experimenting was required - I could not believe how it immediately went into action and has required no fiddling of any sort - first setting was the only setting required over 540 miles. It performed superbly in all conditions.

I have to say that the Hydrovane is the best piece of marine engineering that I have used in 35 years of owning boats. In retrospect there is no comparison with the________. The ________ is in my opinion a state of the art servo pendulum but the choice is a matter of whether one wishes to drag a plank through the water attached to your helm or have another rudder. The Hydrovane proved to be so far superior on all points of sailing that it was as if it had been made specifically for the Tradewind 35. It simply never lost the plot - the ________ would often not let me brew a cup of tea before going off course.

So, many thanks to all the Hydrovane people.

Please feel free to use my comments as a testimonial and I enclose herewith a photo which you may make use of as you wish.

Robin Anderson's Tradewind 35 - 'Pleiades of Birdham'

Unsolicited Email Received February 7, 2005 From New Zealand - Hartley 39

"We are absolutely delighted."

From: E & M Campbell [mailto:ratanui@xtra.co.nz]
Sent: Monday, February 07, 2005 10:27 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: Look Ma No Hands

Hi John

The installation pics you asked for and a couple of others. Hope it didn't jam your computer for too long.

Installation a breeze with no problems at all. The pads were made at home and required only minor adjustments to the concave of the stern, with a sanding disc on an angle grinder for perfect fit. All in all it took 2 of us about 6 hours. The hardest part stretching the cover onto the vane. As a matter of interest I had no contact with any other owners of a Hydrovane prior to order but as we were taking the vane off the pier and back home for the cover fitting, we were stopped by a couple who recognised the vane. They had sailed out from England in a steel ketch 15 years ago. They sang the praises of Hydrovane having sailed 12,000 miles and only steering 200 miles. Of course they wanted a look at a brand new one straight out of the box. He asked if Derek Daniels had sold it to me.

Last weekend we had the delight of the test sail when 3 blokes had 3 days in Queen Charlotte Sound. The cross over Cook Strait was 10-12 kts on the nose so no problems there. The return trip 28kts reach with some slightly on the beam. Again no problems. With careful reefing and trimming we averaged 7.2kts for the 28 miles home.

We are absolutely delighted. It is now only a month to our departure for the circumnavigation of the South Island, Pacific islands next winter!!

A couple of small points. In the instructions perhaps you could include torque settings for the bolts. I made a guess and took them all down to an even 55 ftlbs.

John if I can be of help as a testimonial or even a demonstrator here in mid NZ I am only too willing.

Regards

Ed Campbell (owner of a Hartley 39 RORC Sloop in New Zealand)

Ed Campbell on his Hartley 39

EMAIL SENT TO FELLOW SAILORS ON MAY 19, 2004 ENROUTE TO MARQUESAS - Shearwater 39

"We had the drogue ready to go but never deployed it. During all this our Hydrovane self-steering kept us on course and pointed correctly to the seas for 2 days without needing any adjustment."

From: ve0hxm@winlink.org [mailto:ve0hxm@winlink.org]
Sent: Wednesday, May 19, 2004 4:39 PM
To: cmclean@telus.net
Subject: progress report from the Huxhams...

"We are about 700 n miles off the coast of Mexico headed for the equator. The winds are fair from the East and we have the fishing gear out. The fleeces are being stowed. We know many of you are close to leaving and will give you our experience which may help. Best and most necessary piece of equipment we have found is the mechanical self steering. We were in a gale off Oregon. The 30-35 knot winds were not as much of a problem as the 8-14 foot seas. After heaving to for about five hours to wait for dawn, we shortened sail and ran at 6-7 knots under just staysail. We had the drogue ready to go but never deployed it. During all this our Hydrovane self-steering kept us on course and pointed correctly to the seas for 2 days without needing any adjustment. It has performed well in light conditions as well- well worth the money we spent. The crew was able to get needed rest. In my opinion very few electric driven pilots could have held us on course in that kind of sea. We have a solar panel but did not see the sun for about 2 weeks so don't count on it entirely. During the bad weather wind generator did well. Our water and fuel conservation is going well. Fortunately during the gale we were already 200 miles offshore so we did not need engine; don't think we could have motored in the heavy seas. We are certainly happy we took the offshore route. Freyja has performed well and apart from a shredded reefing block and line we have not had a major failure of equipment. For us the ham radio has become essential not only for email and weather but also for keeping in contact. Ron Kolody has been a great help and has organized phone patches with loved ones in Vancouver. We have also signed on to Pacific seafarers net."

Shearwater 39 enroute from Vancouver to Marquesas

Basil and Angela

Shearwater 39 - Custom extensions to upper 'H' bracket

A Reference Email Sent By Christopher to a 3rd Party........

and later forward to us - An Owner of a 20 ton Swan 46 with a Hydrovane Advising an Owner of a Hinckley 49

"I'd have to say that it is one of the best pieces of equipment I have on the boat."

From: Christopher Johnson
Reply-To: Christopher Johnson
To: Charles __________
Subject: Re: Hydrovane Self-steering
Date: Fri, 6 Aug 2004 14:52:46 -0700 (PDT)

Dear Charles,

In and of itself, the Hydrovane is a wonderful machine. It's a, fundamentally simple design that is well engineered and well built, with numerous mounting options. If you can inspect one up close, you'll see what I mean.

As for my experience with the Hydrovane - I'd have to say that it is one of the best pieces of equipment I have on the boat. I have an '84 Swan 46 that I have sailed perhaps 25k nm on, from the Carribean to the Chesapeake, and from California to NZ. In these past ten years the Hydrovane has required almost no maitenance, yet has provided countless hours of dependable service. I have often sailed short-handed because of my confidence in this "third crew member".

I believe that at 49' you are at the upper limit of the machine's capability. However, to really get optimal performance - no matter what size boat you are on - you have to be able to balance your boat out well. The Hydrovane merely tips the scale this way or that, so to speak. If the boat is over canvassed, or the sails not trimmed properly, then the Hydrovane will have a hard time compensating, especially in a larger boat. A key control factor seems to be the offset of the main rudder to steer the boat a bit leeward to compensate for the boat's tendancy to head up as it hits small bursts of speed.

IF THE BOAT IS WELL BALANCED, the Hydrovane will work in practically all points of sail, and all wind speeds. I have used it in light air with a spinnaker, and fully reefed in 40 kts of wind in the Southern Ocean. The conditions that challenge it occur when the wind velocity is changing frequently, or when there are signifigant and sudden wind shifts. But this is probably true with all wind vane steering units. Dead down wind in light air can be tricky as the apparent wind is so low, and provides little energy to turn the rudder.

That said, the other features I like about the Hydrovane is that it can immediatly function as an emegency rudder, and it is also easy to add a small tiller autopilot for motoring in calms, and to have as a backup to another mechanical unit you may have.

If you have any more specific questions, let me know. I have no complaints whatsoever with this product. It is a great thing that John Curry and family have become involved making access to information and parts more easily available than ever.

All the best, and good luck with your planning - it's all well worth it.

Christopher Johnson
Owner of a Swan 46 (20 tons)
Sausilito, CA
(currently in New Zealand)

Unsolicited Email Received March 21, 2006 - Van de Stadt 35 - see following three emails

"It's simplicity of design was nothing short of a miracle and it worked! It did exactly what it I wanted it to do, day after day, month after month with barely a glance as maintenance."

From: Dr. Will Cave [mailto:will.cave@onetel.net]
Sent: Tuesday, March 21, 2006 1:39 PM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: Searching for a yacht

Dear Hydrovane,

I owned an old steel Van der Stadt in the early 90's and she took me round the world. Without the hydrovane welded onto the stern it would not have been possible. On my return I sold her to a Scot who was on the run from a spell at her majesty's pleasure and when he was nicked and banged up she was bought again, by another Scot. I think the boat now owned by David de Moray who has written on your testimonials page is the same Romalo. Do you have his e-mail? I would love to contact him. (editor's note - see David de Moray's email below)

If it is the same yacht the hydrovane gear must be over 25 years old and done countless thousands of miles. It's simplicity of design was nothing short of a miracle and it worked! It did exactly what it I wanted it to do, day after day, month after month with barely a glance as maintenance. Belated thanks for this. Sincerely,

Dr Will Cave, Stranded GP in Dorset, UK.

Unsolicited Email Received March 18, 2005 From Scotland - Van de Stadt 35

"It is quite fun to watch other blue water sailors pouring over their more flimsily-built units which have not survived the savage conditions of the atlantic! Of course, I don't laugh - no, not at all!!"

From: David Moray [mailto:romalo@hotmail.co.uk]
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2005 4:05 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: Hydrovane Company

I am currently 'on leave' back in the UK having left my yacht (a van de Stadt 35) in Rota, Spain. I have completed three years of single-handed sailing in the Med and on the west coast of Africa with most of the work being done by an aged but still fully-functional Hydrovane unit. When I was about to embark I visited the famous "production unit" in Nottingham (to get a replacement rudder) and was a little concerned to find that the company's future was in some doubt.

Today I came across your web-site and the excellent news that you have bought the Hydrovane company, thus ensuring the continued supply of parts.

I cannot tell you how relieved I am ... not that I expect any serious trouble from 'the old lady at the stern' you understand, but more from the point of view that you have saved a premier product from the scrapyard. I would swear by my Hydrovane unit and have on many occasions been grateful for its simple robustness. It is quite fun to watch other blue water sailors pouring over their more flimsily-built units which have not survived the savage conditions of the atlantic! Of course, I don't laugh - no, not at all!!

As a Scotsman I have to confess that I am only a little disturbed by the company being acquired by a Canadian cousin - I'm sure that whisky must flow in your veins for otherwise I doubt if you would have been prompted to take the action you have!

This is just a wee note of thanks - simple as that. I applaud your actions, sir!

Slainte mhar,
David de Moray
SV "Romalo"

Response (see above) Received March 22, 2005

"Many people say that such units are like having an extra hand on-board .. I would put it more strongly since I am sure we have all had experiences of extra hands who were not much use! The Hydrovane unit is an utterly reliable extra hand ... I trust my life to it without fear and without hesitation."

From: David Moray [mailto:romalo@hotmail.co.uk]
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2005 4:03 AM
To: john@hydrovane.com
Subject: RE: Hydrovane Company

Firstly, "Slainte Mhar" means "good health to you". It is Gaelic, as you probably guessed, and is the sort of thing one would say when parting from a friend. It is also what you might say when "raising a glass" as a sort of toast.

I am sorry to hear of your 'disability' (preference for Irish beer) but I have many very good friends who are Irish and they hide the affliction well - in fact it does not seem to inhibit their abilities at all! I have spent many happy days sailing on the west coast of Eire and it is certainly here, in these somewhat rumbustuous waters, that the Hydrovane unit earned its spurs as far as I was concerned. When I first picked up my boat from Silvers Marine on the Clyde my maiden voyage with her was a fairly slow, single-handed, trip down to Valentia Island and Cahersiveen to work out all her 'blemishes'. I had never used a Hydrovane unit before and was thrilled by the ease with which it operated and how quickly I could put my absolute trust in it. Many people say that such units are like having an extra hand on-board .. I would put it more strongly since I am sure we have all had experiences of extra hands who were not much use! The Hydrovane unit is an utterly reliable extra hand ... I trust my life to it without fear and without hesitation.

My unit is old ... as is my boat ... and as am I, if the truth ever comes out! It does not have the fancy new multicoloured PVC (or whatever) wind-vane but a simply piece of carefully shaped marine-ply. This is eminently replacable wherever in the world I am, although I have only ever broken one, and I carry a spare as you might expect. Low tech is certainly best on African shores in my experience, plus you can happily paint it ridiculous colours at a whim!

I am glad to see you have 'modernized' the pin which secures the rudder onto the shaft - I also have a lanyard binding the handle of the rudder-blade to the hull just in case. My rudder-blade did once fall off - much to my embarassment and everyone else's hilarity - but my safety measure prevented its loss and my consequent bankruptcy!

Yes of course you may use any of the nonsense I have written. It is the least I can to re-pay you a) for saving the company and b) for continuing to produce such a wonderful product.

In lowland Scots dialect they sometimes say "lang may yer lum reek". Well, I don't know about that but I do wish you all the best and also your son when he joins in the venture. If ever you see a Hydrovane unit perched on the stern of a scruffy, vaguely white-hulled, Van de Stadt 35, unashamedly displaying the most gaudy and colourful of designs on the vane, give a shout .. aye, it'll be me, nae doot!!

Slainte mhar,
David de Moray BSc(Eng) MEd FSA(Scot)
Currently on shore-leave but soon to return to W Africa with "Romalo".