Brunswick's CES Boats Boast Edge AI, Self-Docking, and Solar Power

Brunswick is making waves at CES 2026, and I’m not just talking about the kind that rock the boat. Their latest marine tech lineup isn't just about luxury; it's a serious upgrade in smart boating. Forget embarrassing docking fails—Brunswick's packing AI smarts to make even novice boaters look like seasoned captains.

AutoCaptain: Say Goodbye to Docking Anxiety

The star of the show is undoubtedly AutoCaptain, Brunswick’s self-docking technology. This isn't some half-baked automation; it’s a fully integrated system using cameras and AI to navigate tricky docking scenarios. "One of the things about AI for boats is you don't have connectivity, so there is some edge compute required," Brunswick CEO David M. Foulkes told Engadget. No more blaming the crosswinds – just tap a button on the touchscreen and let the boat handle the finesse. I can already see the TikTok shaming videos becoming a thing of the past, replaced by awe at the precision docking.

Edge AI and Misty: Smarter Boats, Smarter Boating

What sets Brunswick apart is their commitment to edge AI. Unlike car-based AI that relies on constant connectivity, Brunswick understands that out on the water, you're often on your own. Their solution? Powerful NVIDIA SoCs that enable offline AI capabilities. Meet Misty, the on-boat AI assistant. Sure, she might not be able to book you a dinner reservation when you’re miles offshore, but she can help with navigation and boat settings. Think of it as having a seasoned co-captain who knows the manual inside and out.

Connected boats also offer remote control features, allowing you to check on your vessel and pre-condition the cabin remotely. Because nobody wants to step onto a sweltering boat after a long day. Smart move, Brunswick.

Fathom: Solar Power and Smart Energy Management

Brunswick isn't just about AI; they're also embracing sustainability. Their Fathom integrated power system uses solar panels (disguised under a sleek black mesh) to recharge onboard batteries. Depending on the boat size, you can get upwards of 30 kWh of power. That's enough to run various onboard systems and even charge electric hydrofoils. The Sea Ray SLX 360 Outboard, showcased at CES, even boasts three 425-horsepower V10s that can recharge the battery. This is a serious step towards greener boating, even if the upfront cost remains a barrier.

Of course, all this tech comes at a price. The Sea Ray SLX 360 Outboard starts at a cool $586,000, while the Navan C30 is a “bargain” at $227,500. It’s a hefty investment, but for those who can afford it, Brunswick is offering a compelling value proposition: a smarter, safer, and more sustainable boating experience.

Brunswick's CES showing proves that the future of boating is here, and it's packed with AI, solar power, and self-docking capabilities. While the price tag might be prohibitive for many, the trickle-down effect of these technologies promises to revolutionize the industry, making boating more accessible and enjoyable for everyone in the years to come. Whether it's edge AI assistants, automated systems, or alternative energy sources, what was once considered a luxury is quickly becoming the standard.