On modern boats, information from the AIS, depth sounder, engine, battery monitor and anchor alarm comes from various sources. Galvanic Voice is designed to consolidate this data into a single warning system.
A voice message instead of a beep
Galvanic Voice connects directly to the NMEA-2000 network. When a relevant event occurs, the system issues a voice alert. For example, an approaching AIS target should be announced with its bearing, distance, CPA and the estimated time to closest approach. Alerts regarding water depth, battery status, engine data or a slipping anchor are also provided.
The information is supplemented by a 360-degree LED ring, which is designed to indicate the direction of the reported incident. For the voice output, Galvanic Works uses a 20 W exciter that utilises the Gorilla Glass 3 windscreen as a vibrating surface. According to the manufacturer, the device achieves a sound pressure level of more than 90 decibels at a distance of one metre.
The alarm messages are categorised into four severity levels. According to the company, Galvanic Works bases its approach on the alarm syntax set out in IMO Resolution MSC.302(87) and the IEC 62923 standard. An alarm is to be acknowledged with a contactless gesture. Unacknowledged messages can automatically trigger more severe alarms.
Monitoring of the vessel and crew
As well as the on-board electronics, Galvanic Voice also monitors the crew. Galvanic Pulse wristbands are used for this purpose. According to the manufacturer, a prolonged absence of a signal can trigger a man-overboard alarm. The voice announcement is then designed to provide, amongst other things, the direction and distance to the person. In systems with multiple Voice units, the devices can cross-check the alarm message with one another.
The wristbands are also designed to assist with watch arrangements and the recording of rest periods. These functions are particularly useful for longer voyages and night-time sailing. A An overview of various systems for locating and raising the alarm in the event of a man overboard provides a safety overview of BOATS.
The display unit is fitted flush into a dashboard. According to Galvanic Works, this requires a cut-out of 121 millimetres made using a hole saw. The unit is designed for a 12-volt power supply and, according to the manufacturer, is protected against temporary submersion in accordance with IP67.
App without a subscription
A free app for iOS and Android is designed to complement these features. Among other things, it displays charts, AIS traffic, weather, anchor watch, on-board data and an alarm log. Remote access to the boat should also be possible provided there is an internet connection. There are no plans for a subscription or in-app purchases.
Galvanic Voice is currently available for pre-order. The price is around 1,130 euros. Delivery of pre-orders is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026. During the pre-order period, four additional wristbands will be included at no extra cost, in addition to the two standard Galvanic Pulse wristbands. Further technical details on the integration of the engine, instruments and on-board electronics can be found in the BOOTE Guide to NMEA Networking Technology.
Further information is available from the Galvanic Voice product page.
Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
