We have all sailing instruments including the depth sounder as well as the auto pilot and a large GPS with track at the helm. I use the sailing instruments as well as the deph all the time. my depth gauge is probably the most valuable instrument I have and it's set for 0 at keel depth. The GPS is used to compare the paddle wheel to SOG and course to compare with compass heading making it easier to compensate for current and drift. I also use the track feature to retrace a tricky entrance if I need to leave at night.

Originally I added the extra cabeling and even purchased a second bale to hold the 12" C-series in the cockpit but never have done it. Again, I admit that it's a PITA at times but it keeps me on my toes looking around, using the binoculars to see distant nav aids and doing a 'educated guess' on the course and speed of approaching vessels. When I'm not sure I just go below and reference the AIS, radar and chotplotter leaving the Admiral at the helm.

When My instruments went out I felt lost and unsure of myself and that was in the beautiful clear waters of the San Blas Islands so it's a way to force me to keep my senses and experience tuned. (If that's possible.)