The association's previous app went to the boot Düsseldorf 2024 live. Their technical support will now expire at the end of March. Instead of focusing on further development, an internal working group made up of members, experts from various levels of the association, representatives of the Sport Boat Association (SBV) and the association council decided on a completely new start. The Leipzig-based Appsfactory was brought in as a technical partner. After intensive workshops, development began at the end of 2025, with DMYV President Frank Dettmering leading the Modernisation course of his predecessor Winfried Röcker, who had already emphasised the need for digital transformation in his farewell speech.
Launch in April: functions of the first version
The first expansion stage will appear in April 2026 and offers access to the latest association news. In the Quicklinks section, boaters can compile their personal link library for quick, important information on their cruise with direct access. As a media partner, the boote-Magazin website is permanently stored there.
An overview of dates shows events organised by the association. Trainers and instructors in the youth and sports sector can register for courses directly via the app. Further functions for boaters and boat owners will follow in summer 2026, with an extension for clubs and members planned for the end of 2026.
Previous digitisation steps at the DMYV
The DMYV has implemented several digital projects in recent years. A new customer relationship management system (CRM) was introduced, which manages customer data centrally. The website was relaunched with a revised structure. Applications, forms and information material have been digitised and are now available online. The newsletter is automated. The association developed its own evaluation app for youth sports competitions. A concept for recognising online boot schools was also developed.
Two years ago, a function was introduced on the DMYV website that simplifies the search for training centres for recreational boating licences, radio certificates and more:
Digital strategy of the DMYV
According to Dettmering, the new app will become the mobile tool for applications and processes within the DMYV. It is an important component of the association's modern data management. The President explains that the old app will be discontinued on 31 March 2026 due to changes in the general conditions that require a new direction. The digital strategy aims to future-proof the DMYV as a representative of the interests of motorised boating in Germany and to support members in an efficient, transparent and service-oriented manner.
The German Motor Yacht Association based in Duisburg, represents the interests of motorised water sports in Germany as a federal association. The association is responsible for sports boat licences, boat registration and the organisation of competitions in competitive, youth and popular sports. Its tasks include the training of trainers and instructors as well as the representation of interests vis-à-vis politicians and authorities.
Jill Grigoleit
Editor Travel
