IHK Schleswig-Holstein
Sailing 4.0: Digitalisation in sailing

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Modern sailboats and yachts are increasingly equipped with digital systems that support sailors in navigation, trimming, and safety:

• GPS tracking and performance measurement: Systems such as Sailmon, Tacktick, and RaceQs record speed, course, wind angle, forces on the rig, and more. The data can be displayed in real time and analysed afterwards.

• Apps for weather, routing, and tactics: Programs such as Windy, PredictWind, and iRegatta help with regatta preparation and tactics on the water.

• Digital logbooks and electronic charts (ENCs) are increasingly replacing paper and improving safety.

• Remote maintenance and networked systems: Smart boat technologies allow batteries, pumps, tank levels, and alarm systems to be controlled via smartphone.

These technologies are also being used more and more by recreational sailors and are no longer reserved for professionals or yacht owners.

In regatta sailing in particular, digitalization has created new opportunities for optimizing training. Schleswig-Holstein's Olympic training centre, state performance centres, and universities use state-of-the-art technology to analyse sailing manoeuvres and performance data:

• Video analysis: Drones and on-board cameras film training sessions, which are then evaluated together.

• Tracking and position data: Live tracking allows position comparisons between boats and tactical evaluations.

• Simulators and VR: In Kiel and Lübeck, initial concepts for virtual training environments are being tested, e.g., for sailing theory, manoeuvre training, or behaviour in difficult weather situations.

Several sailing clubs and educational institutions in Schleswig-Holstein rely on digital media to promote young talent. These include:

• Digital regatta formats such as “Virtual Regatta” as part of school programs or as an introduction to sailing tactics

• Online learning platforms to prepare for sailing licenses or knot courses

• Workshops with tablets and sensors in youth groups to teach technical basics in a playful way

The digitization of sailing is also playing a growing role at the university level. Examples from Schleswig-Holstein:

• Kiel University of Applied Sciences: In the “Maritime Technologies” degree program, sailboats are equipped with sensors and measurement data is used to analyse forces, wind loads, and material behaviour.

• Ocean School Kiel: In educational projects, sailing is combined with environmental education and digital recording (e.g., of microplastic data).

• SMEs and start-ups: Companies such as Jan Brügge's WOY project and smaller boat builders are developing digital concepts for intelligent control systems and low-maintenance components.

Digitization is also taking place in the sailing environment:

• Digital berth booking systems make planning easier for guests and operators.

• Smart marina concepts: The first ports are testing networked systems for energy supply, access control, and weather warnings.

• Online club communication: Many sailing clubs rely on member portals, digital regatta registration, virtual club meetings, and social media to foster club loyalty.

• Online payment system on the Kiel Canal: Enables payment for passage via app.

Despite many opportunities, digitalization also brings challenges:

• Costs: Many systems are (still) expensive or require special knowledge.

• Access and acceptance: Older sailors in particular are sometimes sceptical about new technologies.

• Data security and standardization: There is a lack of uniform interfaces and data protection guidelines for networked boat systems.