Self-driving boats are emerging as a significant innovation in the marine industry, particularly in assisting with docking and short-distance maneuvers. While the concept may seem unusual to traditional boaters who cherish the autonomy of piloting, industry leaders are optimistic about the potential of this technology to enhance participation and stimulate sales.
Over the past six years, I have observed various prototypes showcasing robotic behaviors, although some have encountered malfunctions during demonstrations, indicating they are not yet fully ready for the market. However, recent developments at the IBEX boatbuilder trade show in Tampa, Florida, suggest that autonomous boats are nearing consumer availability.
One notable example is the Simrad AutoCaptain system, which utilizes six depth-perceiving cameras to navigate its environment. This system, integrated into a Boston Whaler 405 Conquest powered by triple Mercury 600 hp outboards, allows for full auto-docking capabilities.
The user interface is managed through a Simrad touchscreen display, which connects to an electronic brain that interprets sensor data to control propulsion and steering. Users can simply drag the boat icon to their desired location on the display and initiate the docking or departure sequence, with the system adjusting to counteract wind, current, and obstacles.
Importantly, any manual input from the user, such as steering or throttle adjustments, will disable the AutoCaptain feature. As the technology continues to develop, it may reshape the boating experience, offering a blend of automation and user control that could attract a new generation of boaters.