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Neco Marine Ltd, based in Havant, UK was a pioneer in commercial and yacht autopilots. The company gained international recognition in the 1960s to 1980s for its heavily engineered systems. The Neco 892 autopilot is a sophisticated navigation system designed primarily for small commercial vessels such as fishing trawlers and pilot boats. Many of these units were fitted to Nelson boats, particularly those with mechanical steering systems. Five individual components make up a typical...

A senior and well loved Club member once remarked that flag etiquette observed by Nelson boat owners was amongst the worst he had ever seen. It’s true to say that many people misunderstand what they are supposed to do and when. We hope this brief article is helpful in this respect. Ensign The ensign indicates the nationality of a vessel and is “worn” as close to the stern of the vessel as possible. This is a mandatory legal requirement under the Merchant Shipping Act. The Red Ensign is the...

Autopilots on boats with hydraulic steering use an electric pump driven by a central control unit to move hydraulic fluid through existing steering lines, bypassing the helm to turn the rudder. A sensor (heading/gyro) tracks the boat's direction, allowing the control unit to make precise, constant steering corrections. Flow and direction of hydraulic oil is controlled by valves operated by solenoids. These take very little electrical switching current since they merely open/close ports within...