On Wed, 27 Apr 2005 07:18:20 -0400, Jeff wrote:

I know that some singlehander will heave to make lunch, or do some
other chore, but with modern autopilots it isn't really a necessity.

On a nice day with a moderate breeze I can heave to and park the boat
so it drifts sideways at very low speed, whereas with the auto-pilot
it will continue on at 6 knots plus. Putting it in park feels better
unless there's absolutely nothing near by.

Ryk