Automatic pilots are designed to be a navigational aid. As an automatic steering aid, an autopilot can alleviate the boredom of hand steering.
This allows the operator of the vessel time to attend to other duties, keep a more accurate check of navigation duties or just relax and enjoy the trip.
HOWEVER, THE AUTOPILOT SHOULD NOT BE LEFT SOLELY IN CHARGE OF THE VESSEL AND AN ADEQUATE WATCH SHOULD BE MAINTAINED AT ALL TIMES.
IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED THAT THE AUTOPILOT BE USED WHILE NAVIGATING IN RESTRICTED WATERWAYS AS WATER CURRENTS, WIND CHARGES OR RADIO TRANSMITTER INTERFERENCE MAY AFFCT VESSEL COURSE SUFFICIENTLY TO ENDANGER YOUR OWN OR OTHER VESSELS.