The Outremer catamarans yard fully believes in this innovation and is now offering it as an option to its clients who enjoy blue water sailing, whether close to home or circumnavigating the globe. As such, these two visionary companies are broadening the yachting horizon to offer its clients ever more comfort and safety.
The SEA.AI machine vision system is an innovative tool in the quest for detecting unidentified floating objects. Using thermal imaging cameras together with artificial intelligence capable of pinpointing, analysing and alerting its crew to any potential surface danger and avoiding it, this technology is essential for any sailor keen to have peace of mind.
So SEA.AI is the equivalent of another pair of eyes aboard, albeit one that has 360° vision, never tires and can detect objects with the same precision day or night. Designed to detect danger, this insightful tool has more enhanced vision than a human eye and is able to send instantaneous automatic alerts to the various on-board screens (multifunction screen, tablet, smartphone and/or computer).
Since the launch of the system in 2018, SEA.AI has been trialed by a series of renowned sailors in the Vendée Globe to collect data in extreme conditions prior to targeted development for cruising. Every SEA.AI detection system around the globe now feeds the company’s databases to ensure the continuous optimisation of the analysis and pertinence of this microcosm of technology.
The Outremer yard quickly understood the appeal of such a system for clients attracted by the delights of blue water cruising. Owners of these exemplary catamarans built in La Grande Motte share a real passion for cruising and oceanic passages. The enhanced safety provided by this tool is a ticket to more assured sea passages and enjoyable cruising!
Raphaël Biancale, founder and inventor of the SEA.AI system:
“The whole team is very proud to be able to rely on renowned yards like Outremer to roll out its SEA.AI machine vision systems. Enabling owners to make the most of their boat in complete safety is our priority. Thank you to the Outremer yard for your trust in us. We’re delighted to play a part in taking boating to a whole new level alongside them.”
Xavier Desmarest, CEO of Outremer – Grand Large Yachting:
“Our mission is to enable everyone, regardless of whether or not they’re an experienced sailor, to realise their voyaging dreams, whilst respecting the oceans and ensuring they feel safe, confident and supported at every stage of the project. Safety is of paramount importance to us, which is why we seek out innovations and systems able to satisfy the safety requirements aboard our catamarans. Limiting the risk of colliding with a UFO considerably enhances a crew’s peace of mind and safety.”
Maxime B, owner of an Outremer 5X equipped with SEA.AI:
“It was during the last Vendée Globe that we first heard about this new system which equipped many of the race boats, signaling the presence of obstacles you might encounter during a sea passage: other boats, buoys, sea creatures, containers. It immediately seemed to us to be an incredibly useful tool. […] We’re extremely happy with the system, which has proven to be really useful. We have absolutely no regrets about this investment.”
SEA.AI demonstrated its machine vision at the Congressional Boating Caucus briefing on April 11, 2024, in Washington, D.C..
Baltic Yachts, a Pioneering Shipyard, integrates SEA.AI Machine Vision Technology to its Range of Innovative Options
SEA.AI detects and classifies objects, including those that escape conventional systems such as Radar or AIS. The addition of SEA.AI systems enhance maritime situational awareness, acting as a formidable ally to the capabilities of these established technologies.
SEA.AI detects floating objects early, using thermal and optical cameras to catch even objects that escape conventional systems such as Radar or AIS: unsignalled craft, floating obstacles, containers, buoys, inflatables, kayaks and persons over board.
