Hi, we’ve just fitted an electric windlass to our 30. Its a South Pacific VS1000 and we had it fitted by a company near to our base in brixham. They glassed in a ply shelf so that the anchor locker lid still closed etc and we also bought the option for a remote control (wired) which is well worth the extra £30 or so.
We have also recently bought a crusing chute, literally 4 weeks ago. I have only had the opportunity to try it once in light airs todate but it does make a tremendous difference and is well worth considering. We bought the chute and snuffer from Crusader Sails in Poole ( approx £1000) and it is easy to rig and they are very knowledgeable and friendly. I’m experimenting about how to set up a permanent tack line attachment on the bow as I just used the anchor roller when I set it up for the first time.
I must say I wouldn’t consider a bow thruster as she is so responsive manoeuvring around in our tightly packed marina even in strong cross winds that I dont think its worth the expense or trouble to fit one. My wife always takes the helm when we moor up so that I can control the approach with warps if we do get a little wayward due to the wind or tide, benefit of having a 30 footer I guess. We have a fixed prop fitted.
John
