Collision avoidance for boats?

Question

I hear that in Florida some powerboaters are using IR cameras for collision avoidance, especially for nigth sailing. Does anybody have more information on that? What other gadgets are there for collision avoidance for boats under 50 ft?

Answer 1

The best way to avoid a collision is with lights to see where you are going, common sense to tell you not to go to fast,  that is with any motorized transportation. With a boat THEY WONT STEER UNLESS YOU ARE APPLYING SOME POWER if you see something in your way in a boat and you panic and throttle down---- you will probably hit it !!!!

Answer 2

You can get autopilot and a radar spinny thing on the roof.

I think it will follow RF beacons on bouys, or you can plot a course in advance.

Answer 3

keep using your common sense it is a shame it can't be taught

Answer 4

IR and FLIR are expensive but worth it if you can afford it. If memory serves me correct the lowest priced FLIR is about $6000.

You may want to just consider get a generation 2 nightscope. Works like a charm and at a fraction of the cost of complete dash mounted systems. Probably pick one up for $300 or less. Don't know if gen 3 has hit the market yet but gone will be the yellow view. Price though will be up there when it debuts.

Answer 5

Look into FLIR Systems, they make night vision systems for boats. I would love to get one on my boat but they seem fairly expensive. Phone [phone] Other gadgets, a good radar system and a good lookout with reduced speed!

Answer 6

VA Boatin is right.  There are a number of monocular night vision scopes and even some Marine Night vision binoculars.

my kid came home with a monocular NV scope (of course) and it works great.

Cadillac introduced one on thier cars about 5 years ago.  maybe an after market setup.

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