On 17 Feb 2006 09:15:30 -0800, in message
.com
"Andy" wrote:

With regard to wind speed, it is what it is, and having a number for
the wind you are experiencing will not help you manage the boat one
bit.

However, if you have experience with how your boat handles X knots and
you have a forecast of X knots, then you can be better prepared,
provided you have instruments on board to put a solid figure on X.

On top of that, unless you are way different from me, watching the
digits climb on the instrument will reinforce your inclination to
respond sooner rather than later. Or save you the trouble by showing
clearly that the wind speed has peaked and is falling, despite the
occasional gusts.

At current prices, I think it would be silly not to have wind data
directly available.

Ryk