Saxdor Yachts from Finland leads the Simrad AutoCaptain Autonomous Boating System into its model range. The company presented the technology alongside the Navico Group at the Genoa International Boat Show. Saxdor is the first boatbuilder outside the US to fit this system. AutoCaptain assists skippers with mooring, casting off and manoeuvring at close quarters. The technology utilises a real-time 360-degree panoramic view and reacts to wind, currents and obstacles.
How the Simrad AutoCaptain works
The system continuously monitors the surroundings and adapts its manoeuvres to current conditions. Unlike systems that rely on pre-stored environmental data, AutoCaptain operates on a situational basis. The skipper can steer the boat in an unfamiliar harbour or to a new mooring whilst the system assists with the manoeuvres. It is operated via a dedicated app on the Simrad display. AutoCaptain is compatible exclusively with Mercury Marine propulsion systems and is integrated directly into the boat’s design. The skipper retains control at all times and can intervene if necessary.
The technology ecosystem at Saxdor
Ludvig Liljequist, Chief Technology Officer at Saxdor Yachts, explains the integration: ‘The system not only automates tasks, but also makes the entire operation more intuitive.’ Real-time data collection makes it possible to respond to changing conditions without the need to know the harbour in advance. Yasser Nafei, President of Electronic Solutions at Navico Group, describes the Simrad AutoCaptain as an important step in the development of recreational boatbuilding. The technology makes advanced functions accessible to everyday users.
Boat IQ as a digital companion
Saxdor is expanding its digital offering with Boat IQ, an AI-powered assistant. The system runs directly on the on-board multifunction displays and is connected to Saxdor AI, a knowledge platform developed by Saxdor in collaboration with Cadentia. Boat owners can make enquiries about their specific model without having to open a separate app. The platform connects customers, dealers and manufacturers throughout the boat’s entire lifecycle.
Saxdor AI in practice
Tatu Heikkilä, Chief Executive Officer of Cadentia, describes the approach: each boat is assigned its own digital product file. This connects owners, dealers and the brand, from the initial enquiry through to production and delivery, right through to service and maintenance. Integration directly into the cockpit is an important step for the industry. Saxdor AI has been operational since early 2026 and is used daily by sales, production, delivery and the dealer network. According to the manufacturer, the platform has processed more than 10,000 customer enquiries, supported hundreds of boat owners and is used by over 40 dealers in 30 countries. This is intended to enable dealers to respond more quickly and close more sales, whilst boosting customer satisfaction. At the same time, Saxdor gains direct insights into how the boats are being used.
Digital tools for customers
As well as AutoCaptain and Boat IQ, Saxdor offers further digital solutions. The MySaxdor app and the Digital Showroom enable prospective customers to explore and configure boats virtually. These technologies are interconnected throughout the entire customer journey. AutoCaptain now adds another layer to this chain, which directly intervenes in the boat’s controls.
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology
