Simrad AP70 Mk2 Autopilot - Control Head Only
Best professional autopilot controller for commercial mariners requiring SOLAS compliance.
The Simrad AP70 Mk2 is a dedicated autopilot controller built for professional mariners on commercial vessels. It replaces older models with a brilliant new display and modernized software, offering enhanced responsiveness and ease of use. Featuring a precision rotary dial and dedicated buttons, it provides instant access to steering modes. This unit is Wheelmarked for SOLAS vessels, ensuring compliance with stringent maritime safety standards. It supports advanced tuning, multiple rudder/thruster integration, and maintains precise course against wind and tide with its No Drift steering mode.
$1676.95
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Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
2
/ 330
#2 in Marine Electronics
Price vs Category Average
+113%
Above average
Weight
5
/ lbs
Who it's for
- Vessel operators prioritizing fuel efficiency and precise steering performance
- Professional mariners needing mission-critical durability for continuous operation
- Captains navigating rough seas requiring quick, tactile course adjustments
Who should skip it
- Recreational boaters on smaller vessels seeking a budget-friendly autopilot
- DIY installers lacking advanced marine electronics integration experience
- Skippers with limited dash space on modern, compact helm stations
Performance breakdown
Regulatory Compliance
Wheelmarked certification ensures full adherence to rigorous SOLAS maritime safety standards.
Steering Precision
No Drift mode maintains an exceptionally accurate track against wind and tide.
Interface Responsiveness
The precision rotary dial offers immediate, tactile control for demanding professional environments.
System Versatility
Broad compatibility supports up to six rudders or complex thruster configurations.
Display Clarity
The modernized, brilliant screen ensures high visibility in challenging marine lighting conditions.
Integration Capability
Seamlessly interfaces with diverse drive types from water jets to Azi-pods.
Key Specs
Weight
5 lbs
Box Dimensions
5"H x 9"W x 12"L
Rudder/Thruster Integration
Up to 6
Compatibility
All common rudder/drive types (Water jet, Azi-pods, Voith-Schneider, Rudder, outboard)
Control Signals
Hydraulic pumps, solenoids, analog current/voltage, control/handshake signals
Certifications
IMO, MED-B, Wheelmarked (SOLAS vessels)
Features
- Dedicated autopilot controller for commercial vessels
- Wheelmarked for IMO/SOLAS compliance
- Modernized interface with brilliant new display
- Precision rotary dial for instant steering control
- Supports up to 6 rudders/thrusters
- Configurable work and speed modes
- No Drift steering for precise track maintenance
- Compatible with all common rudder/drive types
What customers say
This autopilot control head earns high praise primarily for its exceptional reliability and commercial grade quality. Users consistently report robust construction that withstands harsh marine conditions perfectly. The steering accuracy and responsiveness are frequently described as outstanding, making it a trusted tool for long voyages. While the large, clear display and intuitive rotary controls are appreciated, the primary focus remains on its dependable performance. The main drawbacks noted are the significant investment required and the complex initial setup process, which often necessitates professional assistance. Overall, it is viewed as a high performance unit perfectly suited for demanding users who prioritize unwavering dependability.
Know before you buy
Yes, the AP70 Mk2 is Wheelmarked and fully compliant with IMO and SOLAS standards, making it appropriate for professional commercial maritime use.
The AP70 Mk2 is highly versatile and compatible with all common rudder and drive types, including water jets, Azi-pods, Voith-Schneider systems, and standard rudders.
The controller is designed for complex vessel configurations and supports the integration of up to six rudders or thrusters simultaneously.
The No Drift mode automatically compensates for external forces like wind and tide, allowing the vessel to maintain a precise track without manual course corrections.
No, this product is the control head only. It is designed to interface with your existing autopilot computer and steering hardware.
The Mk2 features a modernized, high-brightness display and an updated software interface that improves responsiveness and simplifies navigation compared to legacy models.
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