PRESS RELEASE
Saxdor Yachts introduces Simrad® AutoCaptain™ autonomous docking technology at Genoa Boat Show
01 October 2026
Saxdor announces the introduction of the Simrad® AutoCaptain™ technology to its range of boats, once again reaffirming its pioneering role in technological innovation applied to the marine industry.
Saxdor Yachts, which has long placed marine technology innovation at the heart of its DNA, has announced the introduction of the revolutionary Simrad® AutoCaptain™ Autonomous Boating System, integrating the advanced auto-docking technology into its range and presenting the system to the industry and market in the context of the Genoa International Boat Show, in collaboration with Navico Group.
AutoCaptain represents a new generation of technology designed to simplify docking, undocking, and short distance maneuvering, some of the most challenging aspects of boat handling. With real-time 360-degree situational awareness, the system helps reduce stress at the helm by providing greater confidence, control and precision when maneuvering in tight spaces, crowded marinas and changing wind or current conditions, all under the watchful eye and control of the captain. Engineered from the ground up as a fully integrated system, AutoCaptain exclusively integrates with Mercury Marine’s advanced propulsion and features a dedicated Simrad® display app for a seamless user experience. Built directly into the vessel’s design, the system brings advanced technology together with intuitive operation. Saxdor is the first boatbuilder outside the United States to integrate this innovative system on its boats, marking another significant step in the company’s continued focus on bringing cutting-edge solutions and innovation to the boating experience.
Simrad® AutoCaptain™ perfectly aligns with how we think about technology on board Saxdor: not simply automating a task but making the entire experience more intuitive and giving the captain greater confidence. Its real-time 360-degree awareness allows the system to continuously respond to wind, current and obstacles, rather than relying on a previously mapped environment. This means our customers can approach a new marina or unfamiliar berth and still benefit from intelligent assistance that adapts to the situation around them. For us, that combination of advanced technology, freedom and ease of use is exactly what marine innovation should deliver.
“AutoCaptain marks an important milestone in the evolution of recreational boating,” said Yasser Nafei, President, Electronic Solutions, Navico Group. “As vessels become increasingly intelligent and connected, technologies like AutoCaptain help make advanced capabilities more intuitive and accessible for everyday boaters. We’re excited to work with innovative builders like Saxdor to bring this revolutionary autonomous boating technology to more customers around the world.”
Through a dedicated on-water presentation ahead of the Genoa boat show, one of the key events in the international marine calendar, media had the opportunity to experience the system in action and discover how the Finnish brand is incorporating this new solution into its boats. AutoCaptain further expands Saxdor’s technology ecosystem, an area the company has been developing for several years to enhance the boating experience both on board and beyond.
As part of its wider technology ecosystem, Saxdor is also enhancing the ownership experience through Boat IQ, an AI companion built into the boat itself. Boat IQ runs directly on the boat’s multifunction displays and is connected in real time to Saxdor AI, the knowledge platform developed in collaboration with Cadentia. At the helm, owners can have requests handled for their specific boat, without switching to a separate app.
Saxdor AI connects customer, dealer and boatbuilder throughout the boat’s life, from first enquiry and quote through production and delivery to ownership and service,””Every boat gets its own digital product record, keeping owners, dealers and the brand connected. Bringing this directly onto the helm together with Saxdor and Navico is a groundbreaking step for the industry, and we’re proud of what this partnership has achieved.
Saxdor AI is already live and part of daily work across Saxdor’s sales, production, delivery and dealer network. Since its launch earlier in 2026, the platform has handled more than 10,000 customer enquiries, supported hundreds of boat owners and been adopted by over 40 dealers in 30 countries. It is helping dealers respond faster and close more deals, while raising satisfaction among owners. At the same time, the platform gives Saxdor direct insight into how its boats are used and where they can be improved further.
From the MySaxdor App and Saxdor AI to its Digital Showroom and Boat IQ, the brand has progressively integrated digital and connected solutions across the customer journey — with AutoCaptain now adding a new dimension of advanced technology directly to the experience.
To learn more about AutoCaptain and review important system and safety-related information, please visit www.simrad-yachting.com/autocaptain/
Press contact
Camilla Melinossa
Sculati & Partners
+39 3493399554
[email protected]