From: Hartmut Ludwig
Sent: June 14, 2023
To: Richard Minielly
Subject: Aw: RE: Re: Hydrovane installation

[Editor’s Note: Sections of this email have been edited for clarity]

Hi Richard,

Thank you for your prompt response. Yes we have an electrical autopilot and can continue as planned [following a part failure]. Regarding the trade-in I will need to figure out the logistics, but it will be either Azores or Germany. As soon as I know better I will let you know. The tip with sport equipment [to avoid extra baggage charges] is good.

We are a big fan of our Hydrovane. It performs under most circumstances better than our autopilot. Just light wind is not good <8kts.

When we came up from the Bahamas to US east coast, the main steering failed, due to a broken rod. We were right in the middle of the Gulf Stream and had to bail out to Beaufort, NC. We rigged the emergency tiller, lashed it with two control lines and exclusively used the Hydrovane. Even motor sailing worked well.

The inlet to Beaufort was very choppy so we called US Tow, but just to escort us in case something happened. My wife did all the steering with emergency tiller of the Hydrovane into the inlet to the marina. Just the final turn into the slip we need the emergency tiller. So it really proved to be a backup for the main steering system to us.

Will come back to you soon.

Best

Hartmut