DPS

Dirtythirty

Does anyone have any experience with DPS (Dynamic Positioning System), similar to the Zeus Skyhook ?   Is it more of a novelty or is it the wave of the future ?   I find that by boating in a river, sometimes while waiting for a slip at a restaurant or a spot at the fuel dock, the current is dragging me from north to south, the wind is pushing me from west to east all the while the tide is trying to bring me back north as it comes in... I'm all set up for it, and the dealer is telling me that now is the time to install it, but I can't justify spending the $$ if it's something that is more of a "HEY, look what gadget I have " !!!  Its seems like a nice thing to have if you are out alone and tying up at by yourself.  Hit the button and the boat stays EXACTLY (within a foot or two) where it is until you tie off and disable the system. Just looking for some different points of view.

Handymans342

All the cruise ships, big ships all have it. It would be great to have if you always have to wait for a slip for 20 min plus. Whats the cost? 

Dirtythirty

not 100% sure, but probably around 2500

Handymans342

Well that's petty cash considering what you paid for the boat.

Dream_Inn

I'm not so sure it'd be worth it. It is fairly easy to maintain position with our boats, especially since you also have the joystick.  I'd make sure to have autopilot first.

Dirtythirty

I think agree.....would be nice to have, but if you can't justify the cost, then it probably isn't worth it.

TonyWalker

On our 2010 loop trip, we got pretty good at holding in a desired area by hand while waiting for locks to open for us.  Pretty much of a sailor who likes to do it all himself.