Marine technology company Savvy Navvy has launched an innovative interactive chart annotation tool, marking a significant shift for boating instructors who traditionally rely on paper-based plotting. This new feature allows instructors to create, customize, save, and share digital charts directly within the Savvy Navvy app. Positioned as the “Google Maps for boats,” the app aims to enhance navigation through smart routing solutions.
David Cusworth, head of partnerships and innovation at Savvy Navvy, highlights that the tool enables instructors to visualize scenarios, pinpoint hazards, and quickly adjust lessons. As the industry moves towards a digital-first approach, Savvy Navvy is committed to providing technology that enhances safety and accessibility in boating education. He notes that electronic chart annotations create a more engaging teaching experience, making lessons clearer and more memorable for students.
The introduction of this feature is part of a broader initiative to support instructors, following the Royal Yachting Association’s digital-first campaign launched in 2023. Currently, about 25% of RYA instructors are utilizing the Savvy Navvy app in their training, with the company offering specialized webinars across the UK, USA, Australia, and New Zealand.
David Killpack, principal at Sunshine Sailing Australia, emphasizes the practical benefits of the tool. He shares how using chart annotations transforms theoretical lessons into practical experiences, allowing students to leave with personalized charts filled with their notes and insights. The chart annotations tool is set to be available to Savvy Navvy users starting September 22, 2025, with qualified instructors encouraged to register for a professional edition account.
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