Saxdor brings AutoCaptain into its production boats
Saxdor Yachts has announced the integration of Simrad AutoCaptain into its range, becoming the first boatbuilder outside the United States to adopt the autonomous docking system. The technology was demonstrated around the Genoa International Boat Show in collaboration with Navico Group.
AutoCaptain is designed to assist with docking, undocking and short-distance manoeuvring. The system uses real-time 360-degree situational awareness and continuously responds to wind, current and surrounding obstacles while remaining under the captain’s supervision.
System is integrated with Mercury propulsion and Simrad displays
The technology is engineered as a complete system rather than a separate aftermarket add-on. It integrates with Mercury Marine propulsion and uses a dedicated Simrad display application to combine sensing, control and helm interaction within one operating environment.
Saxdor says the system does not depend on a marina being previously mapped. That allows the software to assist in unfamiliar berths, where changing traffic, wind and currents may make close-quarters handling more difficult for the operator.
Connected ownership tools are expanding alongside helm automation
Saxdor is also developing Boat IQ, an onboard AI companion linked with the company’s wider Saxdor AI platform. That system connects customer, dealer and builder information across sales, production, delivery, ownership and service and can be accessed directly from multifunction displays.
Together, AutoCaptain and Boat IQ show two directions in connected boating: automation of physical manoeuvring and software support across the ownership lifecycle. The important measure will be whether these systems reduce workload without encouraging operators to disengage from the situational awareness and judgement still required at the helm.