Volvo Penta's Assisted Docking system set to confirm Azimut Yachts rule the waves

Azimut Atlantis 45 © Volvo Penta

The Assisted Docking system gives the captain better control when docking a boat by automating his or her intentions, compensating for some dynamic variables, such as wind and current, and helping the vessel stay on its intended course. Azimut Yachts, one of its first adopters, gives its in-depth insight into this innovative technology.

Azimut Yachts was the first of Volvo Penta's European customers to test the new Volvo Penta Assisted technology. Innovation technology is a focal point for Azimut Yachts: the company has a specific and constantly evolving innovation program that aims to make the customer experience the best possible. Volvo Penta's Assisted Docking fits perfectly within this framework - enabling Azimut Yachts to provide its owners an enhanced cruising experience, making life easier on board and much more intuitive. The two companies have worked together to install the new Assisted Docking technology into an Azimut Atlantis 45 and the system was tested by the Azimut team in Florida.

"I was blown away by the Assisted Docking system," says Federico Ferrante, President Azimut | Benetti Americas. "Azimut Yachts is a company that's extremely receptive to innovation. We're always aiming to change the status quo, to think out of the box. For us Volvo Penta's Assisted Docking was a no-brainer, it's a game-changer for easy docking. Assisted Docking is just another step towards a better product, a better experience for our customer."

The system

Volvo Penta's Assisted Docking system integrates a software layer developed in-house with the company's GPS-based Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) and proprietary Inboard Performance Systems (IPS) for a complete package including HMI (human-machine interface) at the helm, electronics via the engine, propulsion systems, and sensors, and advanced navigation processing power for a much easier boating experience, even in rough conditions.

"When we tested the boat, we were surprised by the side-push feature; that was so unexpected," says Alessandro Rossi, Chief Technical Officer, and R&D director for Azimut | Benetti group. "And I think that will be appreciated by our customers and thus destined to roll out on all models fitted with IPS. This easy docking system is a huge step forward in the maneuverability of the yacht. I predict it will be very well received by the market because it will reduce the stress associated with docking a boat."

Continuous improvements

"At Volvo Penta, we are all about the Easy Boating philosophy," says Johan Inden, President Region Europe, Volvo Penta. "Our aim has long been to make boating easier, safer, and cost-effective for our existing customers, whilst, at the same time, making boating attractive and accessible to new customers. We are continuously working on innovations to achieve these goals and ultimately enhance the boating experience - Assisted Docking is our latest technological success in this field."

"Innovation has always been in our DNA, and Volvo Penta Assisted Docking is another major step towards a better product," says Federico Ferrante. "At Azimut Yachts, we always want to understand customer's needs and project that into the future to deliver it ahead of time. Once again, Azimut Yachts is proud to be an early adopter of new technologies that truly make a difference for our customers. It takes courage to be pioneers, and this is part of our - and Volvo Penta's - culture."

The Assisted Docking system will gradually be introduced - in a step-by-step process - starting in Spring 2021. It will be available for installation on new boat models, as an upgradeable option for Volvo Penta IPS-equipped motor yachts sized 35ft to 120ft long. The Assisted Docking system will be sold directly to Original Equipment Manufacturers.

Learn more at Volvo Penta's Assisted Docking webinar, where Marco Valle, CEO of the Azimut Benetti Group also appeared: www.volvopenta.com/webcast/assisteddocking