Far from traditional paper logbooks, digital logbooks are gradually gaining ground in the nautical world. The system developed by Sailsense offers a connected solution that automates all on-board events. Navigation, technical alerts, emergency interventions â?" everything is recorded without any action on the part of the yachtsman.
Automated tracking of navigation and maintenance tasks
Every movement of the boat is automatically identified by motion detection. The log creates a detailed timeline showing position, average speed, time and distance traveled. Maintenance, incidents and tasks are automatically associated with the relevant trip, enabling complete tracking without manual entry.
The main benefit for yachtsmen lies in the automation of maintenance entries, generated from data reported by the system. This makes it possible to manage a predictive maintenance schedule based on actual boat usage.
Integration into the NMEA 2000 network via the Sailsense Hub
The system is based on the installation of the Sailsense Hub box, connected to the on-board NMEA 2000 network. Once continuously powered, this module centralizes technical information from all connected sensors and instruments (engine, batteries, GPS, gauges, etc.).
Installation is claimed to be quick, and requires no special skills in marine electronics. This ease of integration is aimed at semi-autonomous yachtsmen and professional fleet managers.
A logbook for on-board safety
The application enables real-time visualization of safety parameters: anchoring, intrusion monitoring, engine alerts, tank filling. The BoatGuard system, included in the Sailsense suite, records each alert with data for the previous and following ten minutes.
For each alert, a curve shows the evolution of the parameter concerned (engine temperature, battery voltage, fuel tank level, etc.), making the event easier to understand.
Minute-by-minute data replay
The "replay" mode offers synchronized playback of GPS track and telemetry data. By moving a cursor along the route, the user can view speed, depth, RPM, wind or fuel consumption at any moment.
This feature opens up useful perspectives for technical navigation, training or event analysis in coastal or offshore navigation.
Diaries, memoirs and documents
Users can add personal notes, photos, videos or digital documents (PDFs, invoices, certificates, etc.) to each diary entry. These additions are archived with the corresponding event.
This function keeps an organized record of life on board, useful for reselling the boat, insurance declarations or sharing information with a professional.
Questions around privacy and data exploitation
As with any onboard digital system, the question of ownership and use of the data collected by Sailsense arises. The complete history of trips, technical parameters and events is accessible via the mobile application. What remains to be seen are the storage, backup, remote access and sharing policies, which should be documented to avoid any ambiguity when using the system for fleet or rental purposes.
