Which Furuno Autopilot Suits Your Boat? Comparing the NavPilot 300, 711C, and 1000
An autopilot is not just a luxury, it is a game changer for comfort, safety and efficiency on board. Whether you are cruising solo, fishing hands free or navigating longer passages, the right autopilot allows you to enjoy the journey without constantly steering.
But not every boat or situation is the same. In this guide, we compare Furuno’s three leading autopilot systems: the NavPilot 300, NavPilot 711C and the NavPilot 1000. We also explain how to choose the right hydraulic pump or linear drive for your vessel.
What Does a NavPilot Autopilot Do
A NavPilot autopilot keeps your vessel on course automatically by adjusting your steering system. It uses heading and GPS data from onboard instruments and translates this into steering commands.
For motorboats, this means controlling a hydraulic pump. For sailboats, it operates a linear drive connected to the rudder.
The result is less fatigue, more precise navigation and the freedom to focus on other tasks such as fishing, route planning or simply enjoying the water.
Do You Need a Pump or Drive Unit
Yes. Every autopilot system requires a steering interface.
Motorboats use a hydraulic pump, selected based on cylinder volume and vessel size. Sailboats use a linear drive, matched to rudder load and boat length.
Choosing a high quality pump or drive unit is important, as it ensures long term reliability and avoids costly replacements later.
NavPilot 300 for Small to Mid Sized Boats
The NavPilot 300 is designed for outboard powered boats and smaller vessels up to approximately 12 meters. It is compact, intuitive and surprisingly powerful for its size.
Key features include gesture control for wireless steering, Fantum Feedback which removes the need for a rudder reference unit, and SABIKI mode which is particularly useful for drift fishing.
It integrates seamlessly with Furuno TZtouch systems, making it an excellent entry level autopilot for modern boats.
Perfect for powerboats with hydraulic outboard steering.
Hydraulic pump pairing:
- RV1 for cylinders up to 216 cc
- RV2 for cylinders up to 432 cc
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NavPilot 711C for Sailboats and Motorboats
The NavPilot 711C is the most versatile and widely used system in the Furuno range. It is suitable for both sailboats and motorboats and offers advanced steering performance with a highly intuitive interface.
It features Safe Helm for temporary manual override, Power Assist for smoother steering and fuel savings, and multiple FishHunter modes such as orbit, zig zag and MOB patterns.
The system continuously adapts to your vessel using a self learning algorithm, ensuring optimal performance over time. Precision Mode allows extremely accurate course keeping, ideal for demanding navigation.
Perfect for a wide range of vessels, from cruising yachts to motorboats.
Pump pairing for motorboats:
- RV2 up to 432 cc
- RV3 up to 650 cc
- EV2 or EV3 for multi station setups
Linear drives for sailboats:
- 32ST16 up to 33 ft
- 40ST16 up to 44 ft
- 50ST20 up to 60 ft
- 50ST203 up to 70 ft
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NavPilot 1000 for Large and Commercial Vessels
The NavPilot 1000 is designed for larger vessels and professional applications. It is a type approved heading control system suitable for both analog and solenoid steering systems.
It features a rugged industrial design, automatic tuning and multiple customizable work profiles. The system integrates fully with NavNet TZtouchXL and Ethernet networks.
Perfect for vessels up to 100 meters, including commercial ships and large yachts.
Pump pairing:
High capacity hydraulic pumps such as HF 1.9 series
Supports cylinder volumes up to 2300 cc and beyond
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Hydraulic Pump Comparison
Choosing the right pump is essential for proper steering performance.
| Pump | Cylinder Volume | Flow Rate | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|
| RV1 | up to 216 cc | 1 L per minute | 12V / 24V |
| RV2 | up to 432 cc | 2 L per minute | 12V / 24V |
| RV3 | up to 650 cc | 3 L per minute | 12V / 24V |
| EV2 and EV3 | similar range | continuous flow | 12V / 24V |
RV pumps reverse direction to steer, making them ideal for single station setups. EV pumps run continuously and use valves, making them better for multi station or complex systems.
Linear Drive Comparison for Sailboats
For sailboats with mechanical steering, a hydraulic linear drive offers smooth and precise rudder control.
| Model | Boat Size | Thrust | Flow | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32ST16 | up to 33 ft | 280 kg | 1.2 L per minute | 12V / 24V |
| 40ST16 | up to 44 ft | 450 kg | 1.2 L per minute | 12V / 24V |
| 50ST20 | up to 60 ft | 700 kg | 2.0 L per minute | 12V / 24V |
| 50ST203 | up to 70 ft | 700 kg | 3.0 L per minute | 12V / 24V |
The 50ST203 offers the same thrust as the 50ST20, but with higher flow, resulting in faster and more responsive steering for larger or heavier vessels.
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Which Autopilot Should You Choose
Choosing the right system depends on your vessel, steering system and usage.
NavPilot 300 is ideal for smaller boats and outboard setups.
NavPilot 711C is the best all round solution for most boats.
NavPilot 1000 is designed for large vessels and professional use.
Also consider your onboard voltage, whether you need multi station control and the type of steering system installed.
Conclusion
A Furuno autopilot is not just about convenience, it is about control, safety and confidence on the water.
By combining the right autopilot with a properly matched pump or drive unit, you create a reliable system that performs in all conditions.
Whether you are a recreational sailor or a professional operator, Sail360 can help you build the ideal autopilot system for your vessel.
