Wireless retrofit solutions for autopilots are expensive and are usually tailored to a single autopilot. Nauti-Control, a small company from Northern Ireland, is taking a different approach and promises the perfect solution: The company offers two compact gateways designed to make existing autopilots accessible via Wi-Fi, complete with a free app and without the need for a complicated reinstallation. Depending on the model, a wireless controller costs between 170 and 196 euros in Germany.
Autopilot control from anywhere on board
The basic principle is simple. The system is connected to the existing NMEA-2000 or SeaTalk bus via a plug and uses this to set up its own Wi-Fi network. If the autopilot is also connected to the on-board network, the gateway transmits the information to the mobile device. According to the manufacturer, the autopilot can be operated from any position on board using an optional remote control or the free smartphone app.
It includes the most important functions for sailing: changing course by 1 or 10 degrees, engaging and disengaging the autopilot, or maintaining a course. Everything is designed to work at the touch of a button, without anyone having to take the helm. At the same time, instrument data such as heading, speed over ground, depth and wind are displayed in real time on the screen.
Two versions
Nauti-Control offers two models, each designed for a specific type of network. According to the manufacturer, the ‘ST Wireless Controller’, priced at around 184 euros, is designed for classic Raymarine and Autohelm autopilots with a SeaTalk-1 bus. The ST1000+ to ST8000+ series, the SmartPilot-S series and the SPX models are also said to be compatible. It connects directly to the SeaTalk bus via three cable wires.
The “N2K Wireless Controller” is available from around 173 euros. According to the manufacturer, the device is designed for the SeaTalk NG, NMEA 2000 and SimNet data networks. It is also compatible with Raymarine EV-100 to EV-400, Simrad NAC-1 to NAC-3, B&G Triton and Lowrance Drive Pilot autopilots. Connection is via a standard M12 5-pin connector. According to Nauti-Control, SimNet networks can also be connected via a suitable adapter.
What the system transmits
According to the manufacturer, both versions transmit compass heading, speed over water, depth and wind data directly to the end device via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The ‘N2K’ version also transmits AIS information on nearby vessels and forwards this to navigation software such as Navionics, OpenCPN or qtVlm. As things stand, there are currently no plans for AIS streaming on the ‘ST’ version.
Nauti-Control expressly points out that both gateways are merely supplementary control systems and not navigation instruments. The skipper remains responsible at all times for the safe navigation of the vessel.
Apps for smartphones and smartwatches included
Nauti-Control offers two free apps: Nauti-Control Mobile and Nauti-Control Wear. The mobile version runs on iOS and Android devices. It controls the autopilot status and displays the instrument readings. It should also be possible to configure individual devices and install firmware updates via the app.
Nauti-Control Wear is an app specialising in smartwatches. According to the manufacturer, it supports the Apple Watch, Wear OS devices and, since version 3.0, Garmin smartwatches as well. Heading, depth, speed and wind data are displayed directly on the watch. According to the manufacturer, the autopilot can also be controlled via the connected watch.
Prices and accessories
Each gateway comes with a 6-button remote control. If you want more flexibility on board, you can order additional remotes: a four-button model for 29 euros, an eight-button model for 35 euros, or a waterproof six-button version for around 41 euros. If you want to keep a remote control with you at all times and don’t own a smartwatch, you can also buy a small autopilot watch for 64 euros, which is stripped back to the essentials.
By way of comparison: The Raymarine RCU-1 Pack The Gateway and Remote package currently costs 650 euros. The Nauti-Control solution starts at around 173 euros, depending on the model, and comes with a remote control and a free app. Further information and the current price list are available at the Manufacturer's website.
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David Ingelfinger
Volontär