Simrad Marine Electronics, part of Brunswick Corporation, has launched the Simrad AutoCaptain autonomous boating system at IBEX in Tampa, Florida.
Simrad says the technology features automated docking, undocking, and short-distance manoeuvring, with integration into Mercury Marine propulsion and a dedicated Simrad display app. In a statement, the firm claims that, “unlike assistance-based systems currently on the market, AutoCaptain delivers true autonomous manoeuvring.”
“With the introduction of AutoCaptain, we are rounding out Brunswick’s ACES strategy by delivering true autonomy, starting with one of the most challenging aspects of boating – docking,” says Aine Denari, president of Navico Group, and Brunswick chief technology officer.
“As the first solution to be commercialised under the ‘Autonomy’ pillar of ACES, AutoCaptain marks a major milestone in our innovation journey. This system takes the stress out of close-quarters manoeuvring, allowing boaters to focus on enjoying their time on the water. And this is just the beginning. The same hardware platform will support an expanding suite of autonomous features that will be rolled out via software updates, enhancing the boating experience by making it more accessible and intuitive for everyone.”
Simrad says the AutoCaptain system operates with real-time 360-degree situational awareness, allowing autonomous docking and undocking in confined or complex environments. It compensates for wind, current, and obstacles detected by its sensors. Unlike GPS-based systems that rely on pre-mapped locations, AutoCaptain adapts dynamically to new environments, enabling docking in unfamiliar marinas. It can also maintain position against a dock while users prepare lines and fenders.
Developed with Mercury Marine, AutoCaptain is designed as a fully integrated solution using Mercury propulsion systems and joystick controls. It combines a network of cameras and propulsion management through a Simrad display to provide a unified control interface. This factory-installed approach integrates the system into the vessel’s design for precision handling and operational awareness.
The system is built as a scalable platform, allowing software updates to introduce additional features over time. Its design supports both novice and experienced users, offering assistance for tasks such as docking or navigating marinas.
“AutoCaptain shows the strengths of Brunswick synergies, becoming a powerful future-ready platform for OEMs and their customers,” says Jeremiah Clark, VP of product management, electronic solutions for Navico Group. “This system is designed for every level of experience – whether a short-handed captain, new boaters looking for added confidence, or a seasoned captain navigating tight spaces – the system delivers dependable support when it’s needed most. It’s a smart, intuitive solution that enhances the boating experience today and evolves with the needs of tomorrow.”
AutoCaptain will debut on Boston Whaler 405 Conquest models at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, with on-water demonstrations and availability for purchase. It will expand to other boatbuilder partners in the future.
The system will also appear at CES 2026 in Las Vegas from 6 to 9 January, marking its first showing at CES as a commercially available product following its development phase.
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