Electric Winches

From easier sail handling to more comfortable cruising, electric winches can transform life onboard. But are they worth the investment? Here we explore the benefits, costs and practical considerations of upgrading to electric winches.

Hoisting the mainsail, trimming a heavily loaded genoa or reefing in challenging conditions can all demand considerable physical effort, particularly when sailing short-handed. Electric winches take much of the strain out of these onboard tasks, making sailing easier, more comfortable and potentially safer.

Once largely the preserve of luxury superyachts and racing yachts, electric winches are now increasingly common on production cruising yachts. Plus, with retrofit kits and fully integrated options available, upgrading to electric winches is more accessible than ever.

We spoke with Paul Hardy, Refit & Service Manager at Ancasta Yacht Services, to explore the advantages of electric winches, the different installation options and what owners should consider before making the switch.

Why upgrade to electric winches?

The biggest advantage of electric winches is simple: they reduce the physical effort of sail handling. Whether you’re cruising with your family, sailing as a couple or competing in a regatta, they can significantly improve your experience on the water.

1. Easier short-handed sailing

For couples, older sailors or anyone managing a larger yacht with fewer crew, electric winches can be a game-changer.

Tasks such as hoisting the mainsail, trimming large headsails and managing a spinnaker become considerably easier, reducing the physical demands on those onboard.

This can be particularly valuable when sailing with less experienced crew, allowing more people to enjoy their time on the water without the strain of demanding sail-handling tasks.

2. Greater comfort and safety

Electric winches can also make sail handling more manageable in challenging conditions.

When reefing in heavy weather, for example, powered winches allow quicker, more controlled adjustments from the cockpit.

They can also reduce the physical effort of hoisting, tacking, gybing, and trimming, lowering the risk of injury.

3. More control

From tensioning halyards to fine-tuning reefing lines, electric winches can make it easier to trim the sails without relying on physical strength.

This is especially useful in gusty cruising conditions or when making frequent sail adjustments during a race.

4. Less fatigue, more enjoyment

Repeatedly winding a manual winch can be exhausting, especially during longer passages or races.

By reducing physical strain, electric winches can help minimise fatigue and make sailing more enjoyable for everyone onboard.

For some owners, this may increase confidence to embark on longer passages or take part in regattas. For others, it could simply mean enjoying more time on the water.

Retrofitting or replacing: What are your options?

If you’re considering electric winches, one of the first decisions is whether to convert your existing manual winches or install new, fully integrated electric models.

Both approaches have their advantages, depending on your yacht, existing equipment and budget.

Convert existing manual winches

If your current winches are in good condition, a motor conversion kit may be a cost-effective way to upgrade.

This lets you keep your existing winches while gaining powered operation, potentially reducing cost compared with a full replacement.

Install new electric winches

Alternatively, you can replace your manual winches with fully integrated electric models.

Although generally more expensive and potentially more complex to install, these offer a dedicated electric winch solution with smooth operation.

Motor configurations

Electric winches are available with different motor arrangements, each with its own installation considerations.

• Horizontal motors: Side-mounted configurations that can be useful where space is limited.
• Vertical motors: Positioned below deck, offering quieter operation but requiring sufficient clearance.
• Internal motors: Built into the winch drum itself, helping save valuable space and simplifying installation.

The most suitable arrangement will depend on the space available onboard and the practical requirements of the installation.

Electrical requirements

Before installing electric winches, it’s important to consider whether your yacht’s electrical system can support the additional demand.

Electric winches require significant power. Many 12V units draw between 50 and 100 amps, with peak demands potentially exceeding 150 amps when working under heavy loads.

Depending on your existing electrical setup, upgrading may involve improvements to your battery bank, alternator or charging system.

AGM and lithium batteries are common upgrade options thanks to their ability to deliver high currents and support faster recharging.

Cabling is equally important. Marine-grade wiring, correctly sized and installed with short, direct cable runs, helps minimise voltage drop and protect the winch motor.

Because of these electrical demands, installation should be carried out by qualified marine electricians to ensure safe operation and compliance with relevant insurance and survey requirements.

Electric Winch FAQs

How much do electric winches cost?

The cost of upgrading will depend on the type of electric winch, the brand and the complexity of the installation.

As a general guide, typical prices are:

• Manual winch conversion kit £1,500–£3,000
• Fully integrated electric winch £3,500–£7,000+
• Compact internal-motor winch £3,000–£5,000
• Installation and wiring £1,000–£2,500

Market pricing at time of publication. Prices are indicative and subject to change.

While the initial investment can be substantial, many owners see electric winches as a worthwhile improvement to comfort, safety and ease of sailing, with the potential to add value to their yacht.

Are there any downsides to electric winches?

Although electric winches offer considerable benefits, there are a few practical considerations to weigh up before committing.

The advantages

• Easier sail handling when sailing short-handed or solo
• Reduced physical effort and crew fatigue
• More manageable sail adjustments in challenging conditions
• Greater comfort for older or less physically able sailors
• Convenient trimming and adjustments when cruising or racing
• Retrofit and fully integrated installation options

The considerations

• Higher initial investment than manual winches
• Increased demand on batteries and charging systems
• Potentially complex installation and wiring requirements
• Less tactile feedback compared with manual winching
• Greater dependence on electrical systems, making manual backup options advisable
• Additional maintenance requirements

Balancing these factors against your sailing style and how frequently you use your yacht will help determine whether an upgrade makes sense.

Are electric winches right for your yacht?

Electric winches aren’t essential for every sailor.

For owners of smaller yachts, those who regularly sail with a strong crew or those who simply enjoy traditional manual sail handling, conventional winches may be perfectly adequate.

However, for sailors managing larger yachts, cruising with fewer hands or looking to reduce the physical demands of sailing, electric winches can make a significant difference.

They offer an appealing combination of practicality, comfort and convenience, particularly for owners who want to continue enjoying their time on the water without the strain of repeated manual winching.

For some, they’re a luxury that makes cruising more relaxing. For others, they may be the upgrade that helps extend their sailing years with greater confidence.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your yacht, your budget and your future sailing plans.

Plan your electric winch upgrade

Whether you’re looking to convert your existing manual winches or install a new electric system, understanding the options and your yacht’s electrical requirements is an important first step.

The team at Ancasta Yacht Services can help you explore the possibilities and consider the most suitable approach for your yacht.

Contact Ancasta Yacht Services to discuss your electric winch upgrade.

Talk to us about your electric winch upgrade