I have read everything I can find on the web about the Hydrovane self-steering gear, including lots of discussions about what its shortcomings should be: primarily not enough power to steer large/heavy vessels, especially boats with long keels. That said, I 've read a number of accounts of the Hydrovane working fairly effectively for such boats, and I 've found almost none that report that the Hydrovane actually failed heavy vessels.

We are considering buying a Hydrovane for our 20-ton 45 ' wooden ketch (traditional hull design with a full keel). If you have experience with a Hydrovane on an equivalent boat, and especially if there were serious shortcomings, we 'd love to hear from you.

Thank you in advance for taking the time to tell us your experience!

Caitlin
(Debonair)

I would endorse everything Daria has said about the Monitor. For a big heavy boat a servo system is essential to develop the power necessary to steer the boat, particularly in heavy weather. If you really want to delve into OCC experience with Monitors you should contact Vice Commodore Tony Gooch who sailed his 42 ft boat solo around the world non-stop with a Monitor steering practically all the way.