The Future of Confident Boating: Boston Whaler Debuts AutoCaptain™

For decades, Boston Whaler has pioneered innovations that give captains greater confidence on the water. Today, we're proud to announce our latest breakthrough—one that transforms the most challenging moments of boat ownership into effortless maneuvers.

Boston Whaler is the first marine manufacturer to partner with Simrad® Yachting in bringing AutoCaptain™ to market: a revolutionary autonomous boating system that redefines precision docking and close-quarters control. Debuting aboard the 405 Conquest at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, AutoCaptain™ represents the next evolution of the Whaler promise—unsinkable confidence, now extended to every approach to the dock.

Experience AutoCaptain™ at Fishermans Boat Group

Fishermans Boat Group, South Florida's premier Boston Whaler dealer since 1958, is proud to showcase this groundbreaking technology at our Miami showroom. As a Boston Whaler Master Dealer recognized among Boating Industry Magazine's "Top 100 Dealers," we're committed to bringing you the latest innovations that enhance your time on the water.

True Autonomy, Not Just Assistance

AutoCaptain™ isn't a docking assist system. It's genuine autonomous technology that takes command of the entire docking process. Using six depth-perceiving cameras positioned around your vessel, the system creates complete 360-degree awareness of your surroundings, detecting docks, pilings, other vessels, and floating obstacles in real time.

The difference is profound. While GPS-based systems require you to return to pre-mapped locations, AutoCaptain™ adapts dynamically to any environment. Pulling into a new marina for the first time? An unfamiliar fuel dock? A tight slip with challenging current? AutoCaptain™ reads the situation as it unfolds and executes precise maneuvers accordingly—giving you the freedom to explore without constraints.

Seamless Integration with Mercury Marine®

Developed exclusively for boats powered by Mercury® Marine engines, AutoCaptain™ leverages the advanced propulsion system you already trust. Through seamless integration with Mercury's joystick controls and Simrad's intuitive display interface, the system delivers a unified control experience that feels natural from the first use.

This isn't an aftermarket add-on. AutoCaptain™ is factory-integrated into the vessel's design, preserving the clean aesthetics and performance Boston Whaler is known for while delivering unmatched precision and situational awareness.

How AutoCaptain™ Works

Complete Environmental Awareness: Six advanced cameras provide depth perception and a full 360-degree view, continuously monitoring your surroundings above the waterline.

Intelligent Maneuvering: The system autonomously executes docking and undocking sequences, even in tight quarters. It makes smooth, deliberate adjustments to counteract wind, current, and obstacles in real time.

Works Anywhere: Unlike systems that rely on saved waypoints, AutoCaptain™ adapts to new environments instantly. Every marina is approachable with confidence.

Dock Hold Feature: Once positioned, AutoCaptain™ can firmly hold your vessel against the dock, maintaining position while you secure lines and fenders—perfect for single-handed operation.

Captain Always in Command: You maintain complete oversight throughout every maneuver and can intervene at any moment. AutoCaptain™ handles the execution while you stay in control.

Dedicated Display App: Access all autonomous features through a purpose-built app on your Simrad® display with intuitive, straightforward controls.

Built for Every Captain

Whether you're a seasoned boater looking for support during challenging docking situations, a new captain building confidence in marinas, or operating short-handed, AutoCaptain™ delivers dependable assistance exactly when you need it most.

The system is designed for boaters at every experience level. It reduces the stress of close-quarters maneuvering without diminishing your role as captain. You focus on the overall situation—passengers, lines, fenders—while AutoCaptain™ handles the intricate throttle and steering inputs that enable perfect approaches.

A Platform That Evolves

AutoCaptain™ is built as a scalable, future-ready platform. The same hardware foundation that powers today's docking features will support an expanding suite of autonomous capabilities delivered through software updates. As the technology develops, your system grows with it—enhancing safety, convenience, and control for years to come.

The 405 Conquest: The Perfect Platform

The 405 Conquest is the ideal vessel to debut this revolutionary technology. Often called "the SUV of the sea," this 41-foot dual-console cabin cruiser combines formidable offshore capability with luxurious comfort and entertaining amenities that surpass all expectations. With power options up to 1,800 horsepower and AutoCaptain™ precision control, the 405 Conquest never compromises on performance, comfort, or fishability.

Whether you're enjoying long-distance cruises with overnight stays, chasing gamefish far offshore, or hosting gatherings with friends and family, the 405 Conquest equipped with AutoCaptain™ gives you confidence to explore anywhere—and the precision to dock with ease when you arrive.

Your Partner in Innovation

At Fishermans Boat Group, we're more than just a dealership—we're your boating partners. Our passionate team of professionals is ready to guide you through every feature of AutoCaptain™ and help you discover how this technology can enhance your boating experience. From personalized demonstrations to comprehensive service and support, we're committed to ensuring your time on the water is exceptional.

We also offer flexible financing options, expert maintenance and repairs at our state-of-the-art service center, and an extensive inventory of genuine Boston Whaler parts and accessories to keep your vessel in peak condition.

Experience It Today

The future of autonomous boating is here, and it begins with Boston Whaler and Fisherman's Boat Group. Visit our Miami showroom to see the AutoCaptain™-equipped 405 Conquest, explore our full selection of 2025 Boston Whaler models, and discover how this groundbreaking technology can transform your time on the water.

This is Boston Whaler innovation at its finest: taking the challenges that create stress and hesitation, and engineering them into moments of precision and control. AutoCaptain™ doesn't just make docking easier—it expands your horizons, giving you the confidence to explore new waters and visit marinas you might have once avoided.

Proudly serving Miami and our neighbors in Hialeah, Coral Way, Coral Gables, Aventura, and Kendall since 1958.

For more information about AutoCaptain™ technology, visit www.simrad-yachting.com/autocaptain.