![]() ![]() A masthead wind vane will turn a switching device, which will display the wind direction below, but these instruments typically require a power source. Wind speed sensors (cup or propeller types can be used) typically spin a generator, and the electric current produced drives the display, so no external power is needed for an analog display. Sensors for wind speed and direction can be installed on the top of the mast with a display in the cockpit or at the nav station. Users need to face into the wind while holding these devices at eye level to read the output. Handheld anemometers to measure wind speed are also available, ranging in price from very inexpensive to moderate levels. In other words, they factor in both the actual wind speed and direction and the air motion across the deck generated by the motion of the vessel. It is important to realize that these simple devices show apparent wind, not true wind. These can be as simple as strands of yarn tied onto shrouds. Moving up a bit to a device other than one’s eyes, the old fashioned tell-tale also gives information about the wind speed and direction. Also, by examining the local ripples or wavelets on the water, the wind direction can be discerned, and it will be perpendicular to the waves. Wind speed can be observed without instruments by using the Beaufort Scale, which allows the appearance of the sea state to be converted into wind speed. Of course, for sailboats, the wind is the primary method of propulsion, so it takes on an added importance. Wind speed and direction affect all boats in that these parameters help drive the local wind wave field. ![]() ![]() I will not recommend specific brands or models of instruments for this article, but rather will provide a general overview of the types of instruments and ranges of options available, and will comment on which instruments are truly necessary and will deliver the most useful and critical information. But there are some very reasonably priced options available that will meet the most basic needs. On the other hand, a full complement of high-quality weather instruments can be very expensive and is not possible on many vessels due to space considerations. Indeed, the safety and well-being of those who commit to an ocean voyage hang in the balance. Of course, for ocean voyagers, there is a more significant need to know many of these parameters since the weather conditions, and possible changes in the weather conditions, have a direct impact on the activity. Weather instruments are cool! There is something about quantifying different weather parameters that sparks an interest in many of us. ![]()
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