Product comparison
B&G NAC-3 system vs Raymarine EV-400 Sail
B&G NAC-3 vs Raymarine EV-400 Sail for larger yacht installations: compare drive requirements, structural work, controls and ownership support.
- Option 1
- B&G NAC-3 system
- Option 2
- Raymarine EV-400 Sail
A larger yacht installation demands more than choosing a high-capacity computer. The actuator, structure, rudder connection and electrical supply must work together. This comparison puts a specified NAC-3 sailing system alongside an EV-400 Sail configuration, with the mechanical installation at the centre of the decision.
Side by side
B&G NAC-3 system vs Raymarine EV-400 Sail: specifications and installation
| Criterion | B&G NAC-3 system | Raymarine EV-400 Sail |
|---|---|---|
| System approach | NAC-3 computer with a specified compatible drive | EV-400 Sail configuration with a specified drive |
| Mechanical assessment | Actuator, mounting and steering geometry | Actuator, mounting and steering geometry |
| Control integration | Supported B&G sources and controllers | Supported Evolution sources and controllers |
| Ownership question | Who supports the complete combined installation? | Who supports the complete combined installation? |
Specifications and installation scope from manufacturer documentation. Any AUD prices shown are indicative; confirm current package contents and installed costs with a dealer.
Which should you choose?
Choose if
Which autopilot configuration suits your boat?
Choose B&G NAC-3 system if…
- A supported NAC-3 drive and B&G instrument configuration meet the surveyed yacht’s requirements.
Choose Raymarine EV-400 Sail if…
- A supported EV-400 Sail configuration meets the same survey and the intended Evolution controls suit the crew.
Include structural work in the first survey
Ask the installer to identify the load path, mounting structure and access required for the proposed actuator. Record any fabrication or joinery work separately from the equipment cost. If an existing mount will remain, request its assessment rather than assuming a previous installation proves suitability for the new drive.
Plan service access before the boat is reassembled
Discuss how the actuator, feedback and connections can be inspected and removed later. Ask who handles a problem involving retained mechanical parts and new electronics. For extended cruising, keep the equipment list, configuration, support contacts and commissioning record together. These practical details can outweigh a small difference in the initial hardware quote.
Questions
B&G NAC-3 system vs Raymarine EV-400 Sail: frequently asked questions
Is EV-400 always appropriate for a larger yacht?
No. Confirm the exact drive and installation limits against the loaded boat and steering geometry.
Does NAC-3 require B&G-branded mechanical hardware?
Use a manufacturer-supported combination confirmed by the supplier. Brand alone is not a compatibility assessment.
Can either system be selected without a boat survey?
A product shortlist is possible, but the final drive and installation specification need the relevant boat measurements and assessment.
Manufacturer sources for this comparison
Source-based comparison checked 2 October 2026. No comparative sea trial is claimed.
Autopilot training after installation
The best pack badly understood is a worse autopilot than a modest one used well. A half-day handover covers modes, override, alarms and a failure drill.