Simrad Launches AutoCaptain – A New Era of Autonomous Boating

Simrad Marine Electronics, part of Brunswick Corporation, has unveiled the Simrad® AutoCaptain™ Autonomous Boating System – a breakthrough in marine automation that introduces full autonomous docking, undocking, and short-distance manoeuvring. Unlike assistance-based systems, AutoCaptain delivers true autonomy, integrating seamlessly with Mercury Marine® propulsion and a dedicated Simrad® display app.

Announced at IBEX in Tampa, Florida, this launch marks a key milestone in Brunswick’s ACES (Autonomy, Connectivity, Electrification, Shared Access) strategy.

AutoCaptain employs real-time 360-degree situational awareness, enabling vessels to dock or undock autonomously, even in tight marinas or under difficult conditions. It automatically compensates for wind, current, and obstacles while the captain oversees the process. Unlike GPS-dependent systems that require pre-mapped routes, AutoCaptain adapts dynamically to new locations and can securely hold a vessel alongside while lines and fenders are prepared.

Developed in collaboration with Mercury Marine®, AutoCaptain is fully integrated into the vessel’s propulsion, joystick controls, and Simrad® display interface. This purpose-built approach ensures smooth operation, clean aesthetics, and precision performance unmatched by aftermarket solutions.

Built as a scalable platform, AutoCaptain will evolve through software updates, adding new autonomous features over time.