Brunswick Unveils Next-Gen Boats at CES 2026

A New Era in Boating with Cutting-Edge Technology

Docking a boat can be a daunting task filled with anxiety, particularly for inexperienced sailors. Popular TikTok accounts often highlight the blunders of those who misjudge their approach or dock their vessels awkwardly in challenging winds, choppy waters, or amidst mocking observers.

Brunswick's Solution: AutoCaptain

Brunswick, with a portfolio of over 50 marine brands such as Sea Ray, Bayliner, and Mercury Marine, presents a solution to these docking challenges. At CES 2026, the company is showcasing AutoCaptain, a self-docking technology designed to simplify the docking process. Alongside, they’re debuting several other innovations that, in many ways, surpass the advancements seen in the automotive sector.

The Role of Edge AI in Modern Boating

One of the standout features is the incorporation of edge AI, contrasting with the common in-car AI systems that depend heavily on remote servers via cellular networks to execute complex tasks. Unfortunately, such dependence is not feasible on a boat.

"For marine applications, where connectivity can be intermittent, edge computing is crucial," explains David M. Foulkes, Brunswick's CEO. Boats often venture beyond cellular coverage, necessitating a reliable on-board computing solution.

Offline Operation with Misty, the AI Assistant

To address connectivity issues, Brunswick equips its boats with advanced system-on-chips (SoCs) from NVIDIA and others to ensure basic AI functionalities can operate offline. Misty, the on-board AI assistant, may not handle complex tasks like making reservations but excels in assisting with navigational queries and boat adjustments.

"It’s there to provide help with questions that might otherwise require manual consultation, making the boating experience smoother," states Foulkes.

Connected Smart Boats: Remote Control and Convenience

When the boat is within cellular range, functionalities expand to include limited remote control features. Although you can't maneuver the boat from a distance, you can ensure security by monitoring the vessel's status and preparing it for comfort, like cooling the cabin preboarding.

Harnessing Solar Power with Fathom

Brunswick's innovative power system, Fathom, draws parallels with modern smart home technology. Solar panels, discreetly integrated into the boat's design, supply power to an onboard battery system, which varies in capacity according to the boat's dimensions. These batteries, which can also be charged via the boat’s engines, power various systems, including electric hydrofoils, as seen on the Navan C30 model.

Automated Docking: The AutoCaptain Experience

Equipped with an array of fisheye cameras, Brunswick's boats utilize the AutoCaptain system to autonomously dock the boat. Upon approaching a dock, the system offers assistance via a touchscreen interface, enabling a relaxed docking experience as Misty takes control.

High-Tech at a High Price

The advanced technology found in Brunswick’s boats comes at a premium. The Sea Ray SLX 360 Outboard, for instance, starts at $586,000, while the more attainable Navan C30 is priced at $227,500. Despite the hefty price tags, these innovations might still be more economical than hiring a professional captain.