LCD problem, v.2

[Gennady]

Did you enable spi in raspi-config?

Did you enable the pypilot_hat service?    If the screen isnt working the remote control probably wont either.

Thank you Sean, the screen is working now, for the first time! This video shows that.

https://youtu.be/hh2qBACQP0w

I think the trick was turning on the hat service, as you suggested. Also, spi was not enabled before. 

The question now becomes: how does one control the autopilot on a boat? I mean: how to set the course using the compass? How to turn the autopilot on and off? I mean there should be a stand-by mode...

Also: what are other alternatives to windshield motor to drive the boat? 

Thanks for your answers,

Gennady