When you’re cruising shorthanded, you can’t always be at the helm, nor would you want to be. A windvand self-steering system is the most reliable means of steering your vessel on long ocean passages—and doesn’t use one amp of your precious electrical power. This is the definitive guide to every aspect of sailing and working with the long-distance sailor’s best friend. Morris points out the mechanical and navigational advantages of vane steering systems; provides an overview of available products,looking specifically at ten commercially available systems (complete with sizes, prices, and contact information); and shows you how to install, maintain, repair, and modify vane gears for best performance. You’ll find an easy-to-implement explanation of how to match a vane design with your boat, instructions for customizing vane gears for optimum performance, and diagrams and instructions for a homebuilt unit.