Assisted docking system

Docking a boat the easy way

How to dock a boat in windy and challenging conditions with the Volvo Penta Assisted Docking System. By removing the dynamics of wind and current, Assisted Docking simplifies docking and improves maneuvering control in tight spaces – turning challenging and windy conditions into a more effortless boat docking experience. Available on DPI and IPS drives.

How to make docking a boat easier?

Our assisted boat docking system enhances your control as captain. From moving in straight lines without manual compensation to rotating around a fixed point, the system makes docking smoother than before.

How to safely dock a boat in a marina?

In the hustle and bustle of a busy marina, the assisted boat docking system enhances your boat's responsiveness – allowing you to easily navigate tight spaces and turn a stressful situation into a more enjoyable experience.

Is docking a boat difficult?

Docking a boat can be difficult, but The Volvo Penta Assisted Docking system leaves more room for easier boating. As a hybrid between automated and manual boat docking, the semi-automated docking system lets more boaters feel like seasoned captains.

How it works

With the joystick, you control the boat’s path and speed, while the boat docking system compensates for wind, currents, and other challenging conditions. Push the joystick forward to follow a straight path, or release it to hold position. This precise control is ideal for navigating tight spaces and enabling smooth maneuvers.

When standing still, you can turn the joystick to rotate around a fixed position. By twisting the joystick, you can turn in small increments in any direction to improve your alignment without drifting off path.

Move your boat close to the dock by tapping the joystick in small increments. Then fix your position against the dock by pushing the joystick to the side and activate the “Side Push” feature on your display. This will assist you by keeping your boat’s position against the dock while it is being tied up, or you let a passenger on or off.

It makes docking so much easier. Everyone should experience this.

— Axel Krantz Vesterberg, Experienced Captain

Docking a boat in windy conditions?

Wind and current. Two temperamental, deceptive forces that can instantly change from gentle to strong – and create obstacles for easy boat docking. We've changed the docking game with our semi-automated Assisted Docking feature and Joystick control.

How to safely dock a boat in a tight slip?

Docking a boat in a tight slip or marina by yourself where there are physical obstacles can be stressful. We remove that stress, making docking easy, by offering you control at your fingertips.

Assisted Docking combines semi- automation with control, making boat docking easy for both beginners and seasoned boaters. While the captain must always be at the helm and in control of the boat, our assisted boat docking system helps you stay the course.

Assisted Docking is a semi-automated boat docking technology system as part of the features range of our Volvo Penta solutions – fully integrated from helm to propeller.

For a whole new level of control, we now offer Assisted Docking as a retrofittable feature. It can be fitted on yachts and powerboats powered by Volvo Penta IPS from 2012 and all Volvo Penta DPI drives. Owners of D4 DPI, D6 DPI, D6 IPS, D8 IPS, D11 IPS and D13 IPS engines are able to enjoy an easier docking experience. Ask your authorized Volvo Penta dealer for details.

Docking a boat in windy or strong current conditions can be challenging, but the right approach and tools can simplify the process. Use a boat docking system like Volvo Penta’s Assisted Docking, which compensates for wind and current dynamics to help keep your vessel steady. Start by aligning your approach against the wind or current and proceed slowly to maintain control. Ensure your fenders and lines are ready to secure the boat as soon as you reach the dock.

Docking a boat alone is easier with preparation and the right system. Before approaching the dock, have your fenders and lines within reach. With Volvo Penta’s Assisted Docking system, you can rely on advanced sensors and intuitive joystick control to maintain precision, even in tight spaces. The system automates adjustments for wind and current, allowing solo boaters to dock with ease and confidence. Read about when Maria docked her boat alone for the first time.

The most common mistakes when using a boat docking system or docking manually include approaching too quickly, misjudging wind or current, and failing to prepare lines and fenders in advance. Rushing can lead to accidents or damage. With Volvo Penta’s Assisted Docking system, these risks are minimized. The system ensures better control and precision, even in challenging docking conditions, and you can always stop and stand still to take a break.

For first-time boaters, boat docking can feel intimidating, but Assisted docking can make the process seamless. Begin by understanding your boat’s maneuverability and preparing your fenders and lines. Approach the dock slowly and at an angle for better control. With Volvo Penta’s Assisted Docking system, even beginners can dock confidently, as it automates adjustments for wind and current while allowing you to focus on accuracy.

Docking a boat at night requires careful preparation and a reliable boat docking system. Ensure your navigation lights are operational, and use a flashlight to illuminate the dock. Approach the dock slowly, and rely on Volvo Penta’s Assisted Docking system to maintain stability and precision. The system compensates for unseen challenges like wind and current, offering a safer and more controlled docking experience.

Volvo Penta marine joystick control, featuring ergonomic design and multiple buttons for precise maneuvering.

Volvo Penta marine navigation display showing detailed maps, speed, and instrumentation on a sleek black screen.

Close-up of a white Volvo Penta marine component, showcasing its sleek design and precise engineering.

What you need

Our Volvo Penta IPS improves power and performance, as well as offering total comfort on board. The individually steerable pods allow you to move the boat in any direction with complete control, and the steering angles and thrust are constantly recalculated to keep the boat in position.

Explore Volvo Penta IPS

The Volvo Penta Assisted Docking system is now available for DPI, allowing more boaters to enjoy their time on the water without the stress of docking. Combined with a variable-speed bow thruster (dealer consultation recommended for compatibility), it provides precise control, enabling seamless movement of the boat in any direction. The steering angles and thrust are constantly recalculated to keep the boat in position.

Explore Volvo Penta DPI

The joystick is the link between you and your vessel. It offers an easy way to maneuver with precision, both while driving and boat docking. Combined with Assisted Docking, the joystick offers you ease and control at your fingertips.

Explore Joystick

The Glass Cockpit System collects and displays all driver information in one place via a single interface. You can easily see when you are utilizing the Volvo Penta Assisted Docking system, with blue lines appearing forwards or sideways, or a circle that indicates what assistance you are getting. It also constantly shows the level of force used to keep you steady in the current conditions.

Explore Glass Cockpit System

Assisted Docking builds on the technology provided by our Dynamic Positioning System, which keeps the boat’s heading and position when preparing to dock, waiting to refuel or for a bridge to open. Upgrade your antenna to the latest model (which will fit on your current mount) for Assisted Docking to work.

Explore Dynamic Positioning System

Learn more in our Q&A with the Volvo Penta experts, answering all your questions about the Volvo Penta Assisted Docking retrofit upgrade. Explore how the Assisted Docking retrofit can empower you with superior control at the helm, transforming your docking experience.

What to consider when upgrading your yacht

The Assisted Docking system is compatible with all Volvo Penta DPI drives. It is also possible to retrofit eligible boats for upgrades. Consult an authorized dealer to assess individual compatibility, as this upgrade depends on the specific equipment and design of each boat.

What to consider when upgrading your powerboat

Garmin Surround View

As simple as parking your car

Combine the seamless control of Assisted Docking with the third-party Garmin Surround View Camera System when you navigate using the Glass Cockpit.

With a combination of 360-degree real-time views provided by the Surround View 6-camera array, you get a birds-eye view of your boat as you move. Making docking your boat as simple as parking a car.

Glass Cockpit System

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Expert advice

How to dock a boat – with and without Volvo Penta Assisted Docking

Docking a boat can be a challenging maneuver for any boater. In this video, we break down the essentials, whether docking manually or using our boat docking system.

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