[CapnRon47]

These recent posts are helping me decide to go ahead and order the S-1, thanks for asking the question. My issue is time. We plan to start moving the boat south from MD to NC right after labor day. That is just enough time for me to order and receive an S-1, but probably not enough time to do the custom install necessary for the rudder sensor. I am sure if I ask Raymarine if it is necessary they will say yes, but on their website they indicate it is only needed for optimum performance. I am thinking I could do a short install without the rudder sensor and at least have some autopilot assistance during the trip and then deal with the rudder sensor once we get to NC. Does this seem reasonable, anyone have experience using the S-1 w/o the rudder sensor? On the Defender website they imply that delivery captains carry one for just this purpose and I doubt they install the rudder sensor. So I am thinking this should be ok. Besides our boat has only 1 head, so we cannot both be 'busy' down below at the same time anyway. Thanks in advance for any feedback or advice. Forgot to mention that we will be sailing (motoring if this weather keeps up) down the bay and the ICW.