Sam wrote:

Tom,
I know about autopilots but I haven't yet heard of one that will do a
MOB navigation and return to pick you up if you get swept overboard.

Actually there is a French autopilot that detects if you fall overboard and
stops the boat dead into wind. Then it is up to you to swim to the boat...
Many solo ocean racers use this.


"The wireless NKE Radio Remote Control allows selection of both the channel
displayed, and the ability to change settings on every multifunction
display in the system, from anywhere in the cockpit! The remote control
unit is totally waterproof and can be conveniently worn either around your
neck or strapped to the wrist (lanyard and/or wrist straps are available).
The wireless remote control is also equipped with the unique NKE
Man-Over-Board System, which automatically detects if the holder of the
transmitter has fallen overboard. The system consists of the NKE Universal
Radio Receiver (also used for the NKE Gyropilot Remote Control), which is
installed on the boat, and a wireless remote control.

If someone falls overboard, the receiver's audible alarm warns the crew. The
Man-Over-Board channel automatically appears on all NKE multifunction
displays on the boat, displaying the indicated bearing and distance to the
MOB transmitter attached to the crewmember. The GPS, if connected to the
system (*), automatically records the man-over-board position and will also
display bearing and distance to the MOB transmitter.If the Gyropilot is
engaged and the system includes a masthead unit, the rudder is moved to
bring the boat head to wind. If the system does not include a masthead
unit, the rudder is pushed hard over to initiate a heave-to."

http://camdenboatstore.com/article_i.../articles_id/7