Brunswick Making Parking Boats Easier - Inside Look of CES 2025

Brunswick has set sail into the future of boating with its innovative autonomous docking system. Visit Brunswick to explore how their cutting-edge technology is transforming the boating experience for newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

The Innovation Journey

At the heart of Brunswick's showcase at CES 2025 was the Boston Whaler 405 Conquest, equipped with the first-ever autonomous docking system. Imagine effortlessly docking your boat with a simple tap on a screen—no stress, no guesswork. This groundbreaking system is designed to make boating accessible, especially for those new to the water. With six expertly integrated stereo cameras, the boat can map its surroundings, identify objects such as docks, swimmers, and other vessels, and safely navigate to its destination.

The process is intuitive: select your docking slip and desired orientation, press “go,” and let the system take over. It even works in reverse, guiding the boat out of a tricky docking situation into open water so you can focus on the fun.

Impact & Vision

Brunswick’s unique position in the boating world amplifies this innovation. By seamlessly integrating Mercury engines, Navico Group electronics, and Simrad touchscreens, they’ve created a system that’s entirely in-house. This end-to-end approach ensures unparalleled reliability and performance.

The vision? To make boating accessible to a broader audience by removing some of its most intimidating challenges. As Brandon Fairman, Brunswick’s leader of autonomy programs, noted, “These technologies make hard things easier, bringing more people into the boating experience.”

Real-world scenarios, like navigating a crowded marina or docking at a sandbar party, become effortless. The system even offers features like Skyhook, which uses GPS to hold the boat in position until you’re ready to secure it manually.

Behind the Technology

The autonomous docking system combines advanced stereo cameras with artificial intelligence, creating a detailed map of the environment. Brunswick’s proprietary software classifies objects and executes precise maneuvers, making docking and undocking smooth and safe.

The technology is also aesthetically integrated into the boat’s design. The cameras are packaged discreetly, maintaining the vessel’s sleek profile. Additionally, the virtual helm simulator at the Brunswick booth demonstrated the system’s capabilities in a controlled environment, providing attendees with a hands-on experience of the future of boating.

Our Perspective

We were thoroughly impressed by Brunswick’s ability to integrate autonomy with elegance. The system isn’t just functional; it’s thoughtfully designed to enhance the overall boating experience. The intuitive user interface and seamless operation reflect Brunswick’s deep understanding of its audience.

One area for potential growth lies in expanding this technology to smaller vessels, making it accessible to even more boaters. However, the current offering is a game-changer for larger boats navigating busy or challenging waterways.

Future Outlook & Final Thoughts

With the autonomous docking system set to launch commercially this year, Brunswick is steering the boating industry toward an exciting future. We predict this innovation will not only attract new boaters but also redefine what’s possible on the water. Their commitment to making boating more accessible and enjoyable aligns perfectly with the industry’s push toward inclusivity and advanced technology.

As boating evolves, Brunswick is clearly at the helm, charting a course toward smarter, more intuitive experiences.