and doing so in much more challenging conditions. Sure, being larger, they have larger pumps or drive units, but the electronics and control are the same. Why is this not a valid comparison when cruisers are using the same pilots with an appropriately sized drive?

We are well aware of the challenges and distances involved with south pacific cruising. I used the term "milk run" because that is a common term. It certainly isn't like cruising in the southern ocean or other more challenging places. Although there are challenges in these passages, they are easily met by AP steered boats every day and every year.

I'm starting to understand Ed better now. We have met others of his type - there is only one dogmatic way and there is resentment toward those who are doing it differently or have more resources. They won't let facts get in the way, and will find evidence everywhere to support their belief system. As their world closes down on them, all others become "not normal, not real people, not real cruisers and insane". Small mind.

However, one comment stood out - "the vast majority are multihulls"? I did not expect that.

Mark