When fog sets in or the weather turns, it’s nice to have a second set of eyes on watch. Especially in high traffic areas. I had my first experience with Raymarine’s new ClearCruise AR (Augmented Reality) in all the above, racing through the inside passage on the western coast of Canada. I was shorthanded, as many of us are when cruising, and was glad to have assistance from the latest Raymarine technology.
ClearCruise AR is an overlay on the video feed of a Raymarine Axiom chartplotter. The software draws attention to marks, waypoints, and AIS targets with clear visual cues for easier navigation. Instead of scanning back and forth between the plotter and the horizon, trying to locate hazards, one glance at the plotter allows a clearer understanding of the surroundings ahead. I opt to split the chartplotter between the AR-enhanced video feed and the chart when running ClearCruise AR.
To prevent a cluttered screen in congested areas, Raymarine has included a variable ranging. They have also tied this technology into the MOB function, allowing for faster and safer rescues in tough conditions. Live AIS targets are color-coded to assist in risk assessment, with the CPA (closest point of approach) available without clicking on anything.
Three pieces of Raymarine technology are required to make this system work. First, an Axiom chartplotter: this is the latest generation of multifunction displays and provides the brainpower. Next, a Raymarine Cam 210 HD or Cam 300 marine camera, mounted with good visibility forward. And the final ingredient is the AR 200 sensor module, providing video stabilization as well as position, heading, pitch, and roll data to the Axiom chartplotter through a GPS receiver and an attitude and heading reference sensor.
This intuitive addition helps make faster and more educated decisions, even if it’s just picking up the buoys on an unfamiliar channel. ClearCruise AR raises awareness, and while it’s no replacement for keeping watch, it is a friendly and welcome companion to my cockpit anytime. Raymarine.com
October 2025
