Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a sailing vessel control device having a cleat means, a resistance means, a line having a first end located through the cleat means and a second end attached to the resistance means, and a sensor adapted to detect the extent to which the line is pulled through the cleat means and to output a line signal corresponding to the position of the line for use in controlling the sailing vessel. The line signal which can be used to control the sail(s) of the vessel can be generated in a traditional, manual manner (i.e. by pulling on the line). The present disclosure further relates to a sailing vessel control system having one or more of the sailing vessel control devices, one or more sail actuators, and a control unit.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a sailing vessel control device comprising: a cleat means, a resistance means, a line having a first end located through the cleat means and a second end attached to the resistance means, and a sensor adapted to detect the extent to which the line is pulled through the cleat means and to output a line signal corresponding to the position of the line for use in controlling the sailing vessel. The line signal which can be used to control the sail(s) of the vessel can be generated in a traditional, manual manner (i.e. by pulling on the line). This allows emulation of traditional sailing rigging to control a sailing vessel electronically and thus technological innovation can be incorporated into the sailing experience without detracting from the sailor's enjoyment.