I'm not really sure just how many of you knew this, but sailboats have autopilots too, the latest device of this type to arrive on the market pertaining to one of the best-known companies in this field, namely Garmin.

The navigation solution in question, the GHP 12 sailboat autopilot system, is designed to work with 20- to 70-foot sailboats equipped with linear-actuated steering systems and is available with two linear drive options: the Class A Drive unit for sailboats with up to 28,500 pounds of displacement, or the Class B Drive Unit for larger sailboats with up to 79,000 pounds of displacement.

For optimal performance, the GHP 12 features a built-in gyro that maintains precise turn response and control stability, while the integrated rudder feedback ensures ease of installation and exceptional reliability.

With a 3.5-inch full-color display, the GHC 10 is a dedicated autopilot control unit designed to engage and disengage the GHP 12 autopilot.

Three GHC 10 controllers can be interfaced to a single GHP 12, allowing autopilot functionality at a remote location on the boat.

When interfaced with Garmin’s GWS 10 or other compatible wind sensor, GPS and network electronics, the GHP 12 can support workload-saving features such as heading hold, wind hold, step turns, tack/jibe, MFD route following and more.

In addition, this new system features sailing-specific software and employs the industry-standard NMEA 2000 interface, ensuring ease of installation and network access to autopilot heading data.

“The GHP 12 is the evolution of the reputable GHP 10 autopilot system, building off of what users love, and introducing key benefits sailors have requested,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin’s vice president of worldwide sales.

“By adding two linear drive options and updated sailing-specific software, the GHP 12 will bring Garmin’s leading autopilot technology to the sailboat market, and will address the needs of our loyal sailing customers,” Mr. Bartel concluded.


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