On modern yachts, chartplotters, AIS, echo sounders, battery monitors and engine gauges provide a wealth of data. What is often missing is a unified warning system that distinguishes important information from trivial details. This is precisely where Galvanic Voice comes in: the system connects to the on-board electrical system and issues warnings not only visually or via an audible signal, but also as a voice announcement. A prerequisite is a correctly configured NMEA-2000 network with connected sensors and displays.
A voice message instead of a beep
According to the manufacturer, when an AIS target approaches, Galvanic Voice is designed to provide, amongst other things, the bearing, distance, CPA and the time until the closest approach. CPA stands for ‘Closest Point of Approach’, i.e. the expected minimum distance between two vessels. In addition, a 360-degree LED ring indicates the direction of the event. The device is also designed to issue warnings in the event of shallow water, a critical battery status, abnormal engine data or a slipping anchor. Whilst the concept is not new, particularly when it comes to anchor watches, Galvanic Works aims to display the information not just on a screen or smartphone. Comparable functions are offered, for example, by Anchor Watch apps, However, Galvanic Voice is intended to merge them with the rest of the on-board data.
For voice output, the device uses a 20-watt exciter which causes the Gorilla Glass 3 front panel to vibrate. According to the manufacturer, the system achieves a sound pressure level of more than 90 decibels at a distance of one metre. The flush-mounted glass panel serves simultaneously as a speaker surface, an LED display and a gesture sensor.
Alerting according to a fixed procedure
Galvanic Works categorises the alerts into four levels of severity: Caution, Warning, Alarm and Emergency. According to the manufacturer, the logic is based on IMO Resolution MSC.302(87) on Bridge Alert Management and on IEC 62923. A simple, contactless hand gesture is sufficient to acknowledge an alert. If an alarm is ignored, the system can automatically escalate it.
MOB alarm with wristband
The Galvanic Pulse wristbands form part of the crew monitoring system. If a wristband’s radio signal is lost for an extended period, Galvanic Voice is designed to trigger a MOB alarm and announce the direction and distance to the person in distress. Multiple Voice units on board can synchronise their alerts with one another. Such a system is no substitute for a life jacket, a lifeline or well-rehearsed MOB procedures. However, it can speed up the alert process if a crew member goes overboard unnoticed. What are the different systems for MOB location tracking and alerting YACHT has already compiled a list of what is available.
The wristbands are also designed to take into account periods of wakefulness, rest and fatigue. These functions are intended for longer journeys, but are based entirely on the manufacturer’s specifications.
App and installation
The free app for iOS and Android is designed to display charts, AIS traffic, weather, anchor watch, alarm log and on-board data. If the yacht is connected to the internet, remote access should also be possible. Similar solutions offer Instrument and AIS data already on your tablet, Galvanic Works intends to do this without any subscriptions or in-app purchases.
A 121-millimetre cut-out is required for installation. The unit is clamped into place and, according to the manufacturer, requires no screws or sealant. It is rated for 12 volts and is protected against temporary submersion in accordance with IP67.
Galvanic Voice costs at Galvanic Works: 950 euros net, which is equivalent to around 1,130 euros including VAT in Germany. The pre-order includes two Pulse wristbands, whilst four further ones are to be included at no extra cost during the pre-order period. Delivery is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. Galvanic Voice — Man-overboard alarm on board | Galvanic Works
Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor