Smartdock: App-based mooring is also set to be introduced for sailing yachts

Smartdock is currently of particular interest to motorboat owners. However, the technology could soon become much more appealing to sailors: according to information in the BOOTE test, Thitronik is planning an extension for sailing boats, and in the future even for older yachts with traditional cable-operated gear changes. This raises a question familiar to many solo sailors and small crews: can a smartphone help with manoeuvring in harbour when there isn’t a second person on hand?

App control: Why Smartdock is also of interest to sailors

With Smartdock Thitronik has developed a retrofit solution designed to make harbour manoeuvres easier using a smartphone. The system currently controls the engine and bow thruster on compatible motorboats. The technology is not yet widely available for sailing yachts, but it has been announced and could be of particular interest to owners who frequently sail alone or with a small crew.

On motorboats, Smartdock competes with permanently installed joystick systems, which are usually considerably more expensive and generally rely on modern propulsion technology. On sailing yachts, the appeal lies elsewhere: Here, it is less about spectacular sideways manoeuvres and more about controlled manoeuvring over the final few metres, a better view of lines, bollards and the jetty, as well as assistance at times when the helmsman is actually needed on deck. YACHT magazine provides an overview of how classic harbour manoeuvres work without electronic assistance in stress-free harbour manoeuvres.

This is where Smartdock comes in. The technology is kept as simple as possible for the end user and can be operated via a smartphone. “I wanted to go out on the water on my own, but without having to run around the boat like a headless chicken, throwing the lines over everywhere,” says Smartdock developer Mark Tietje, explaining the idea behind his product. We’re testing it on a Kiel Classic 44 in Eckernförde.

​Important information for YACHT readers: The practical test was carried out on a motorboat. Comments regarding operation, response time and safety therefore relate to this set-up. For sailing yachts, three key questions remain unanswered until the relevant version is launched: which propulsion systems and gearboxes are supported, how the technology can be combined with typical sailing yacht bow thrusters, and what installation requirements must be met on board.

Thitronik: Electronics expertise from Eckernförde

Founded in 1984, Thitronik initially focused on marine electronics. In 2010, there was a change of ownership, after which the company shifted its focus more towards electronics for motorhomes. Nine years later, the company moved from Kiel to Eckernförde; Smartdock was launched shortly afterwards. It is therefore not a traditional start-up: the company now employs more than eleven engineers, who also work on Smartdock.

At the port: What the app control system can already do

Docking and undocking In principle, anyone can manage without a Smartdock. The system isn’t automatic, but rather a technical aid. However, anyone who is on board alone or wants to move about more freely whilst manoeuvring will quickly realise its benefits: the skipper can stand exactly where the line, mooring post or jetty requires their attention at that moment.

This becomes apparent very quickly during testing. The system responds instantly: there is no perceptible delay between pressing a button on the smartphone and the boat’s response. According to Tietje, this is down to the fast connection between the control units and the app.

It’s also intuitive to use. After just a few minutes, you’ll have got the hang of the app and will be able to use the system as if it were second nature. Of the three views the app offers, we like the third one best – though that’s a matter of personal taste.

Steering and tackling at the same time

The biggest advantage of Smartdock is that it can be positioned anywhere on board. On a sailing yacht, this would be particularly useful in situations where the helmsman is actually needed at the bow, at the centre cleat or at the stern whilst manoeuvring. Instead of having to switch back and forth between the helm and the line, they could give short steering commands whilst keeping an eye on the situation on deck. This is no substitute for thorough preparation, but it can reduce stress in tight berths or in crosswinds.

The freedom to choose the location also often provides a better overview of the overall situation than many helm stations do. This made it possible to manoeuvre the bow of the Kiel Classic right up to within about five centimetres of the pier – something that would have been virtually impossible from the helm station due to the lack of visibility.

The system is particularly helpful when the wind comes into play. If the boat is pushed away from the jetty by a gust whilst mooring, you can adjust the line and countersteer at the same time, without having to run back to the helm first. The so-called ‘High Mode’ is designed for such moments, allowing all systems to be used simultaneously. This slightly increases the power output, making the boat significantly more agile.

​For sailing yachts, the difference compared to motorboats remains crucial: the keel, rudder, freeboard and propeller effect all have a significant influence on manoeuvring. Modern, wide yachts in particular, with a large wind-catching surface, still require careful planning, skilful handling of the lines and a feel for the boat’s movement. Anyone wishing to brush up on the basics will find a detailed explanation in YACHT on how to A bow thruster helps with harbour manoeuvres.

Even with an app, seafaring skills remain crucial

Smartdock does not moor or unmoor the boat automatically. Anyone who cannot assess the wind, current, wake or their own boat will not become a better skipper simply by using the app. It does not do the actual work for you, but makes it easier at a tricky stage: the final metres into the harbour. This could be of interest to solo sailors and small crews once the sailing yacht version becomes available. Until then, Smartdock remains, above all, a successful practical trial on motorboats and an exciting prospect for the sailing community.

Click here for Part 2: How Smartdock is technically retrofitted, which motors are supported, how much the system costs, and what security features safeguard the app-based control.

Would an app to control harbour manoeuvres on your sailing yacht be a useful aid, or would you prefer to keep your hands on the tiller, wheel or throttle? Share your thoughts in the comments.