See, the thing is, NMEA 2000 is is a very specific protocol, and one of the features is its ability to add to the network. For example, a three way connector can be added, and boom, you can add a GPS, or maybe an echo sounder, or whatever. The connectors I showed are IP-67 water resistant, and ensure the correct connection is always made. It's a trunk/drop line system that is plug and play. Sure, you could just splice the wires, or use a bus, or just twist them, whichever. But one of those male plugs, and one female plug, and you're all set, with the correct ability to move forward.
Oh, one other question: to what does the wind instrument connect? Is it a multi-function display? Gauges? How do you view the data?
As an example, on my boat, there is a wind instrument at the top of the mast which collects windspeed, direction, and a few other weather factors, as well as a GPS antenna. It also serves as the required end resistor. This trunk line travels down the mast, where it connects with a male end connector. This trunk connector plugs into a T connector, where it picks up the paddle wheel for boat speed. A bit farther along the trunk is another connector for the echo sounder. Because I wanted to listen to music when I sail, I added a sound hub, which also connects via NMEA. This all ends at my MFD, with various screens to view data. If I want to add to the mix (maybe an autopilot some day? Also considering digital inputs from the engine to record RPM, temp, oil, etc. All just plug into the trunk, and the MFD displays it all. Even if you're not using that all right now, or have no future plans, the shield wire is doing a bit of work for the network. It's important to use the correct connectors.
Amazon does carry the correct connectors. This is the male:
Amazon.com: Regatta Processing NMEA 2000 (N2k) Male Field Installable Connector for Garmin Lowrance Simrad B&G & Navico Networks : Electronics
www.amazon.com
The photos better show the connectors. Strip the wire, loosen the crimp screw, feed the wires, tighten the screws. When finished, the "back of the terminal screws in, pulling tight the strain relief/water proofing seal. There is a little card showing which wire (color) goes where. The female is similar, and then the two connectors screw together. If you add to the trunk, there is a three way connector, the additional line goes in the "T", the male into one end, the female into the other and then on down the line. Here's the female:
But I work on boats and understand this particular issue. Get a pair of drugstore magnifying/reading glasses and a headlamp to aid the process. It won't be any easier to install a plug and socket.