Tennessee-based AquaSport Boats is using AI technology from South Korean start-up Avikus to create autonomously equipped recreational sport boats.

Avikus specialises in artificial intelligence (AI), advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous boat technology.

The collaboration aims to deliver a line of centre and dual console recreational sport boats under the Twin Vee brand, each craft designed, developed and manufactured to provide a boating experience that incorporates navigation assist and autonomous functionality. The first models will make their debut this summer, with additional models being introduced in late 2024 under the Twin Vee, Forza and AquaSport brands.

“This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to innovation, technology and the pursuit of excellence in the recreational boating industry,” said Lim Dohyeong, CEO of Avikus. “Together with AquaSport Boats, we are not just introducing a new product, we are unleashing a new era of AI assisted navigation on the open water.”

The collaboration aims to advance the recreational sport boating market by harnessing the power of AI, sensor fusion and machine learning to provide safety, convenience and confidence to new and experienced boaters.

Avikus’ NeuBoat technology should bring the innovations seen in the automotive sector to the recreational marine market, such as 360-degree situational awareness, 3D cluster views, route planning, smart autopilot navigation that can identify objects and avoid potential collisions, and autonomous self-docking. These could help attract boaters to the market, and aid existing boaters with navigation and docking.

The NeuBoat (avikus.ai/eng/product/neuboat) autonomous level-two navigation system for recreational boats was also recognised this month for innovation at CES in Las Vegas. This is the second consecutive year Avikus was recognised by the show in the vehicle tech and advanced mobility category.

“As pioneers in monohull design, AquaSport Boats is thrilled to partner with Avikus to bring autonomous technology to the heart of recreational boating,” said Joseph Visconti, president of AquaSport Boats (aquasportboat.com). “This collaboration is not just about creating boats; it’s about creating unforgettable experiences for our customers.”

Avikus (avikus.ai) is a start-up specialised in autonomous navigation. It was established in 2020 by shipbuilder HD Hyundai.