Marine technology powerhouse Brunswick Corporation, a TechNexus Venture Collaborative corporate partner, unveiled its new self-driving boating technology recently at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), representing a major advancement in boating innovation.
The AutoCaptain autonomous boating system, developed by Brunswick’s Simrad team, delivers precise control that is ideal for tricky maneuvers in the marina—including docking and undocking—all without human assistance. The system also makes real-time adjustments to water and wind conditions, allowing it to adapt to environments that have not been pre-mapped. It takes the stress away from navigating tight spaces in crowded marinas so boaters can enjoy the fun of being on the water.
The same AutoCaptain hardware supports additional autonomous features in future upgrades, allowing the system’s capabilities to easily evolve over time. The culmination of 10 years of development, this technology signals a new age of truly self-intelligent autonomous boating.
Brunswick showed off AutoCaptain on two boats at CES, including a brand-new Sea Ray SLX. In the rest of their comprehensive exhibit, the company launched the FLITE RACE, a high-performance electric surfboard built with Mercury Racing that can reach speeds of 34 mph. Also on display was its Lund fish-and-ski boat combining a gas engine with an electric motor. To bring it all together, immersive AI simulators allowed people to experience these innovations firsthand.
“CES stands as the global epicenter for unveiling transformative innovation, and Brunswick is poised to exemplify the revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence and next-generation marine technologies,” Brunswick Corporation CEO Dave Foulkes said in a news release.
As a close corporate partner, TechNexus works with Brunswick’s to identify and invest in high-potential marine technology startups. TechNexus leverages its venture ecosystem to source innovations that align with Brunswick’s needs and strategic goals. This relationship allows Brunswick to rapidly integrate emerging technologies into its product lines while providing startups with capital, industry expertise, and a pathway to commercial scale.
While AutoCaptain made its debut on the Boston Whaler 405 Conquest, the technology is set to roll out to additional major brands in 2026.