Raymarine Tiller Autopilot, For Sailboats, 12V, SeaTalk, NMEA 0183

Overview

The Raymarine ST1000+ and ST2000+ is a family of self-contained cockpit tiller autopilots for tiller-steered sailboats, with configurations rated for vessels up to 3,000 kg or 4,500 kg maximum displacement. Each unit combines the drive, heading sensor, and control interface in one removable tiller pilot, so it can be fitted for a passage or day sail and removed when hand steering is preferred.

These pilots run on 12 V DC systems and support SeaTalk and NMEA 0183 connections, allowing integration with compatible instruments, wind data, and GPS information. They can also be used as stand-alone pilots when a simple cockpit steering aid is all that is needed.

The range is intended for coastal cruising on tiller-steered sailing boats. Fully laden displacement matters when selecting the right model, since fuel, water, gear, crew, and cruising stores can add meaningful weight compared with a boat’s lightship figure.

Key features

• Self-contained tiller autopilot with an electric linear drive, fluxgate compass, and control panel inside one removable cockpit unit.
• Two displacement ratings cover common tiller-steered sailboats: 3,000 kg for ST1000+ and 4,500 kg for ST2000+.
• Works with 12 V DC electrical systems used on many sailboats in this size range.
• SeaTalk and NMEA 0183 connectivity allow the pilot to work with compatible marine instruments, wind data, GPS, and chartplotter information.
• Quick mounting and connect or disconnect setup helps the boat move between hand steering and autopilot control without a permanent below-deck drive installation.
• AutoTack mode helps manage tacking from the cockpit while the pilot moves the tiller through the maneuver.
• AutoSeastate helps maintain course while managing power use in changing sea conditions.
• Backlit LCD and 6-button keypad keep control straightforward in the cockpit during day sailing, evening returns, and coastal passages.

Variants

This tiller autopilot range is offered in two configurations, with the main difference being the recommended maximum vessel displacement.

Both variants share the same core product role as removable cockpit tiller pilots for 12 V DC systems with SeaTalk and NMEA 0183 connectivity. The higher-rated model is selected for heavier boats within the stated range.

• A12004: Maximum displacement 3,000 kg. This is the ST1000+ configuration for lighter tiller-steered sailboats where the fully loaded displacement stays within the 3,000 kg rating.
• A12005: Maximum displacement 4,500 kg. This is the ST2000+ configuration for heavier tiller-steered sailboats where the fully loaded displacement calls for the higher rating.

Installation and setup

The pilot mounts between a fixed point on the cockpit, such as the coaming or seat area, and the boat’s tiller. The removable layout is useful on smaller sailboats because the cockpit can stay clear when the pilot is not in use, while the tiller pilot can still be connected quickly before motoring, sailing under main alone, or holding a course during short-handed maneuvers.

Because the unit is installed in the cockpit, placement should allow a clean push and pull line to the tiller, enough clearance through the steering arc, and a protected cable route to the 12 V supply and any data connections. Proper geometry is important for smooth steering response and for avoiding strain on the drive arm.

Compatibility and fit

This range is for tiller-steered sailboats, not wheel steering systems or below-deck hydraulic steering. The displacement rating should be checked against the boat in cruising condition, not only the published design displacement, because loaded cruising weight can be noticeably higher.

It is a good match for sailors who want a cockpit autopilot for coastal cruising, short-handed sailing, trimming sails, checking navigation, or reducing fatigue on longer coastal legs. For offshore passage making or boats above the stated displacement range, a different autopilot system should be considered.

Electrical and network integration

The pilot connects to a 12 V DC supply and can operate independently when network data is not required. With compatible SeaTalk or NMEA 0183 data available, the unit can receive navigation information from other onboard electronics, which is useful when steering to a route or working with instrument data.