I'm struggling with mixed feelings right now.

On the plus side:
- first sail of the year: check
- pain free: check

On the minus side:
- the ageing Autohelm (which had been throwing the occasional wobbly lately) now appears totally inoperative - apart from the occasional beeping sound. And I fear it might be FUBAR. To be investigated further next week.

Having just committed to (and paid a non refundable deposit for) the fitting of an electric windlass, having to replace the autopilot now would be a financial burden I could do well without.

I do have Carly to steer the boat when under sail, but an electronic AP does come in handy when motoring or hoisting/dropping sails.

Will take it as it comes.
Better it happens now rather than mid-season.