Ferretti Group has announced the exclusive adoption of Watchit Sense 360, a new generation of the anti-collision system developed by Aqua Marina Tech. The important addition is radar. The system is designed to combine digital charts, position, route, AIS and Simrad Halo radar data through the yacht’s multifunction displays.
This is a technical story with a very practical owner angle. AIS does not show everything. It will not show a vessel without a transponder, a drifting object, an unconnected buoy or a boat with AIS switched off. Ferretti describes Watchit Sense 360 as a third layer of protection, working in the background and generating alerts only when it detects a concrete hazard.
Safety Is A System, Not A Gadget
For an owner, the issue is how this technology fits into bridge responsibility. Radar, AI and AIS can reduce risk, but they do not replace watchkeeping, seamanship and port procedures. The buying questions therefore go beyond the equipment list: crew training, software updates, radar calibration and event logging all matter.
Ferretti says the system can adapt automatically to offshore passages, congested waters, harbour areas and anchoring. That is particularly relevant for family yachts operating around busy Mediterranean coastlines, but it has to be tested at handover. False alarms, risk presentation and the captain’s confidence after the first season will determine whether the system becomes useful or merely decorative.
What To Put Into Handover
On a new Ferretti Group yacht, or on a retrofit candidate, the buyer should ask for integration documents, software version, update process and warranty scope. It is also worth confirming whether the system depends on a specific Simrad package and who provides regional support where the yacht will operate.
Our guide to motor-yacht fuel consumption and range makes a related point: real ownership value sits in systems that crews can understand, document and maintain. Safety electronics are moving in the same direction. W Yachts can help make that discussion part of yacht selection rather than an afterthought after delivery.
