You’ve heard about it at the dock, read an article in a magazine, or seen a video of someone docking alone, calmly, without running from one end of the boat to the other. And a question keeps nagging at you: is a boat remote control really for you?
We’ll answer simply. No jargon, no indigestible technical specifications. Just what you need to know before getting started: what it’s for, how it works, and how to tell if your boat can be equipped with one.
In this article
What exactly is a boat remote control?
Imagine controlling your helm stationāengines, thrusters, windlassāall grouped into a small device you wear around your neck. That’s what a boat remote control is.
Specifically, you control your boat wirelessly. Forward, reverse, bow thruster, anchor winch: everything is there, at your fingertips. The big difference from your helm station? You’re no longer confined behind the wheel. You maneuver from where you have the best view.
That’s the whole principle of remote boat control: maintaining control of the boat while gaining freedom of movement.
What is it really for?
That’s the real question. Here’s what changes once you’re on board.
Docking without stress
This is the crux of the matter. When docking, the best vantage point is almost never behind the helm. It’s at the bow to aim for the quay, at the stern to monitor your neighbor, or on the side to pass the mooring line. With a remote control, you are where you need to be, when you need to be. Maneuvering becomes precise.
Maneuvering without relying on crew
No more shouting instructions between bow and stern. You hold the controls and handle your mooring lines yourself. With two people, it changes everything. And if you often sail as a couple, you know what we’re talking about. With this, you can dock alone.
Protecting your boat
A controlled docking means fewer bumps against the pontoon, fewer scratches, less stress on the hull. Your boat will thank youāand so will your insurance.
The main types of remote controls
Not all remote controls are alike. To keep it simple, there are two main approaches.
On one hand, there are button-based remote controls, which operate engines and thrusters separately. Intuitive, precise, perfect for most boats with conventional controls.
On the other hand, wireless joysticks move the boat in all directions with a single gesture. We delve deeper into this topic in our dedicated article on wireless joysticks for boats, if you want to explore further.
The right choice depends on your boat, your propulsion system, and your sailing style. Don’t panic: there’s a solution for every configuration.
How much does it cost, and is it worth it?
Let’s be direct: it’s an investment. But weigh it against what it prevents. A botched maneuver in a crowded port, a scratch on the hull, a bump against a finger pierā¦ these costs add up quickly, both in money and stress.
A boat remote control offers peace of mind with every docking, for years to come. And the price range is wider than you might think, depending on the model and configuration. We detail all of this on our page dedicated to Dockmate prices.
What about a yacht?
If you have a unit over 15 meters, the logic is the same, but the stakes are higher. The larger the boat, the more valuable it becomes to maneuver from the right angleāand the less you want to rely on crew for precise measurements. We’ve written a specific guide for this: the yacht remote control.
The real question: Is your boat compatible?
This is THE point that stops most people. And it’s legitimate. A boat remote control needs electronic controls to communicate with your engines and thrusters.
The good news? This applies to a large number of recent boats. The bad news? We can’t guess for you. Each configuration is unique.
So, rather than speculating, check. In a few clicks, you’ll know if your boat can be equipped.
š Take the boat compatibility test. It’s free, it’s fast, and a specialist can answer you afterwards.
To discover the brand, you can also view the Dockmate France page.
FAQ: Boat Remote Controls
Can a boat remote control be installed on any boat?
No, not quite. Electronic controls (analog or digital) are required to operate the engines and thrusters. Boats with mechanical cable controls cannot be equipped. The safest way is to take the compatibility test.
Can you really dock alone with it?
Yes, that’s the whole point. You keep the controls with you and move freely on board to maneuver and handle your mooring lines. No more need for a perfectly synchronized crew member.
Is a boat remote control reliable?
Serious systems use a secure wireless connection that changes channels in case of interference, ensuring you never lose control. With Dockmate, the unit is waterproof, it floats, and the entire system comes with a 3-year warranty.
How long does it take to install?
Allow approximately one day, without taking the boat out of the water: half a day for installation, half a day for setup. The work is performed by a professional.