Does Artificial Intelligence make Sailing Safer? | S09E05

Sailing Project Atticus: Does Artificial Intelligence Make Sailing Safer?

In this episode of Sailing Project Atticus, Ethan grapples with the question of whether artificial intelligence (AI) can truly revolutionize sailor safety and comfort. He dives into the world of cutting-edge technologies like weather routing and AI-powered boat polars, exploring how they can empower sailors to make informed decisions as they navigate the vast expanse of the seas.

Routine Maintenance and Minor Improvements

Before diving into the exciting world of AI, Ethan tackles some essential maintenance tasks on his boat. One critical project involves replacing the flimsy strap on his tool storage unit with a heavy-duty ratchet strap. This seemingly minor upgrade ensures the tools stay securely in place during rough seas. He explains the importance of such improvements, highlighting how loose tools can become dangerous projectiles in turbulent weather, potentially causing injury to crew members.

Ethan further beefs up safety measures by adding stainless steel eyebolts to the tool storage unit’s bulkhead. These eyebolts provide additional anchoring points for the ratchet strap, creating a near-unbreakable hold on the toolbox.

Tuning the Rig

With the tool situation under control, Ethan shifts his focus to the boat’s rig, the complex network of wires and masts that controls the sails. He emphasizes the importance of proper rig tuning, which ensures the mast is positioned correctly and the wires are under the appropriate tension. Optimal rig tuning is essential for achieving peak sailing performance and maintaining safety. Due to recent challenging weather conditions, the rig had become slightly out of tune. Ethan meticulously works his way through the process, using a tension gauge to precisely adjust each wire and ensure they’re all under the correct load.

Data Hub and Boat Polars

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to installing a data hub from PredictWind. This device collects data from the boat, such as wind speed, wind direction, and boat heel, and transmits it to the internet and a local network. This data can then be used for various purposes, including monitoring the boat remotely, creating anchor alarms, and tracking weather conditions while sailing.

Ethan explains how the data hub can be particularly useful for creating custom boat polars. Boat polars are models that predict how a boat will perform in different wind strengths and directions. By collecting real-time data from the boat, the data hub can create AI-powered boat polars that are more accurate than traditional models. This, in turn, allows sailors to make better decisions about weather routing and passage planning.

Connecting the Data Hub

Installing the data hub requires drilling holes to connect it to the boat’s NMEA system. Ethan acknowledges the mess this creates but emphasizes the importance of a proper connection for collecting accurate data.

Testing the Data Hub

Once the data hub is installed, Ethan tests it by turning on the navigation instruments and opening Navionics, a popular marine navigation app. He successfully receives AIS data (Automatic Identification System data that transmits information on nearby vessels), GPS data, and depth sounder information, confirming that the data hub is functioning correctly. This means all the data collected while sailing will be uploaded to PredictWind, where it will be used to create AI-powered boat polars.

Limitations of AI and Weather Forecasts

While Ethan is enthusiastic about the potential of AI in sailing, he acknowledges the limitations of weather forecasts and AI models. He emphasizes that forecasts become less reliable over time, especially for passages exceeding three days. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to sail in certain weather conditions depends on the sailor’s risk tolerance.

Additional Systems for Safety and Comfort

Ethan also discusses installing an Ethernet switch to enable him to control and view his radar from inside the boat using OpenCPN software. This system will be particularly helpful for single-handed sailing, allowing Ethan to monitor his surroundings from the comfort of the cabin.

Artificial Intelligence in Sailing

Ethan concludes the episode by expressing his excitement about the new systems he has installed on his boat. He believes these systems will make sailing safer and more comfortable for his family, especially as they embark on upcoming adventures in Turkey.