Raymarine ST1000+ Tiller Autopilot

The Raymarine ST1000+ is a classic tiller autopilot designed for small sailboats and yachts. It is a completely self-contained unit that installs easily between the tiller and a fixed point on the boat, providing reliable automatic course-keeping while you handle the sailing. Inside its durable housing are a powerful electric linear drive and a precision fluxgate compass, and it’s operated via a simple six-button backlit control panel.

This autopilot is ideal for coastal cruising and day sailing. Note: it is intended for coastal use and is not recommended for long offshore passages. The convenient AutoTack mode allows single-handed sailors to tack the boat automatically – the ST1000+ will turn the helm through the wind while you manage the sheets. An intelligent AutoSeastate feature keeps the vessel on course while minimizing unnecessary rudder activity to conserve power in rougher seas. With built-in SeaTalk networking, the ST1000+ can communicate with your other instruments – wind vanes, GPS, and chartplotter – enabling functionalities like tracking to GPS waypoints and wind-angle steering.

Use Cases & Recommendations: The ST1000+ is recommended for tiller-steered sailing vessels up to 3,000 kg fully laden displacement (typically sailboats in the ~20–30 ft range). It’s perfect for coastal cruisers and trailer-sailers that require an easy-to-fit autopilot. Installation is straightforward, with a quick-release mounting system that lets you engage or disengage the pilot in seconds. Recommendation: Always account for your vessel’s fully loaded weight (gear, crew, supplies) when determining if this pilot is suitable. The ST1000+ delivers accurate steering, allowing you to focus on trimming sails and enjoying the journey while it handles the helm.