Raymarine and Maretron Partner to Enhance Vessel Monitoring

Raymarine, a global leader in marine electronics, has announced a strategic collaboration with Maretron, a leading innovator in marine technology. The partnership will bring Maretron’s MConnect® technology to Raymarine’s Axiom chartplotter displays, marking a significant advancement in vessel monitoring for boat owners and OEMs worldwide.

Maretron’s MConnect is a client-server technology that provides access to real-time data across hundreds of vessel data points. By integrating MConnect with Raymarine’s Axiom multifunction chartplotters, users can monitor and control critical vessel components directly from Raymarine’s LightHouse interface. This integration provides a powerful and customizable view of essential vessel data, enhancing safety, efficiency, and onboard enjoyment.

The partnership makes MConnect’s advanced data visualization and customization tools fully compatible with Raymarine’s MFDs. This allows users to create personalized interfaces and control vessel systems with ease. Combining MConnect’s graphics editor with Raymarine’s high-definition displays enables the creation of visually stunning dashboards that consolidate vital information into a single, easily accessible view. This integration also makes it easier for OEMs to embed brand-specific aesthetics and designs, creating a cohesive branded user experience across all vessel systems.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Raymarine, a global leader in marine displays,” said Jim Catterall, Business Development Manager at Maretron. “By integrating MConnect with Raymarine’s Axiom line, we are creating an experience that is powerful, intuitive and fully customizable. This collaboration exemplifies our shared commitment to enhancing the boating experience by delivering innovation and connectivity for our users.”

“Bringing the Maretron MConnect into our digital ecosystem gives boat builders and dealers the flexibility to create a seamless user experience for our mutual customers,” said Michelle Hildyard Vice President of Operations at Raymarine. “Our collaboration with Mareton aligns with our goal to give our customers maximum flexibility and choice when building a Raymarine navigation system.”

MConnect is available now through selected Maretron dealers and distributors and is fully compatible with Raymarine’s Axiom chartplotters, ready to deliver advanced vessel monitoring and control out of the box. Additional configuration support is available through Maretron’s dealer network.

Auckland Launches World-First Electric Hydrofoil Ferry

Auckland has welcomed a groundbreaking addition to its ferry network: the Vessev VS-9, a 10-passenger, electric hydrofoiling boat. This “world-first” certified electric hydrofoil has been launched by Fullers, offering both scenic tours and charter opportunities.

While Auckland awaits larger electric ferries and necessary wharf charging infrastructure, the VS-9 provides a glimpse into the future of maritime transport. Starting January 29, passengers can purchase tickets for $195 each for a 45-minute “hydrofoil experience,” with twice-daily departures. The vessel is also available for charter around the Hauraki Gulf for $2000.

Vessev and Fullers are also developing a larger, 100-passenger, 19-meter version with commuter service potential. However, unlike the smaller VS-9, which can charge from a standard marine power outlet, the larger model will require specialized charging infrastructure.

Vessev chief executive Eric Laakmann emphasized the significance of this launch, stating that this is "the first time ever that a vessel of this type – certified electric hydrofoiling – has been delivered to a private operator for private service applications. That’s an enormous endorsement of the commercial potential of this technology.” He distinguished this launch from other electric ferry projects, noting that those involved public transport authorities, whereas this is a private commercial venture.

The VS-9, designed and built in Auckland by Vessev, adapts hydrofoiling technology from America’s Cup yachts. During testing, the vessel handled waves up to 1 meter, exceeding expectations.

Powered by a 55kW (70HP) electric motor, the VS-9 cruises at 25 knots. Laakmann asserts this is unprecedented for a 9-meter vessel with standing headroom. In trials, a return trip between Auckland CBD and Waiheke Island cost just $8 in electricity, compared to $140 in petrol for a comparable, lighter chase boat.

Vessev's diverse backing includes Icehouse Ventures, Sir Stephen Tindall’s K1W1, Blackbird Ventures, Shasta Ventures, founder Max Olson, and Laakmann himself, a former Apple Watch development lead who settled in Auckland after being stranded by Covid border closures.

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