Enhancing the Boating Experience with AI Chatbots

What Is a Chatbot?

A Chatbot is an AI application that engages in human-like conversations. Think of it as a virtual first mate. This mate never gets seasick, doesn’t drink all your beer, and instantly responds to questions about boats and maintenance—all without human intervention. Unlike static FAQs, chatbots provide dynamic, personalized responses based on your inquiries.

How It Was Created

We used natural language processing technology, allowing it to comprehend human interactions from both written and visual sources. This includes language full of nuances and occasionally colorful sailor vocabulary.

The creation process involved feeding the system targeted Explorer Yacht-related materials. In the training phase, we forced the AI to binge-read more boating content than a cabin full of "Yachting Monthly." We then refined this knowledge base as questions were asked. Each new query led to additional meanings and categories. Our goal is to ensure it doesn't suggest patching a hull breach with duct tape—though that’s still a possibility.

How This AI Develops

The AI learns and improves over time. It’s becoming the marine equivalent of that friend who started as a landlubber but won’t stop talking about jibing techniques.

Users interact with the system, allowing it to analyze conversations for patterns and information gaps. With each interaction, it aims to provide more comprehensive answers. Gradually, it transforms into that knowledgeable dock neighbor who always has a useful solution—without the unsolicited advice about your docking technique.

Well, at least that’s the theory. Here are some example questions and answers from our testing. I noted its accuracy at about 80%. Some answers either missed the point or failed completely.

• It excelled with information it had been trained on, such as the Operations Manual for Vanguard. Additionally, it provided further reading and source links, which was a plus.

• However, it struggled to perform functionalities typically associated with a larger AI model, like preparing a comparative performance table.

• Furthermore, it identified some incorrect older data (for example, it showed a range of 7000 miles, when in reality, it is between 2500 and 3000 at an acceptable speed). We can intervene here to retrain it based on real-world experience with performance and range data.

  
  

The Future of AI in Boating

As AI continues to evolve, our system will become more user-friendly and efficient. We plan to keep updating our chatbot with new data. This will not only improve its accuracy but also enhance the overall user experience. We want our users to feel connected, informed, and empowered.

Why Chatbots Matter

Chatbots are particularly beneficial in the marine industry. They can rapidly answer common queries about boat maintenance, safety features, and navigation tips. Imagine embarking on a journey where you have instant access to all the information you need. The chatbot can guide you, ensuring you’re well-prepared for any adventure.

Chatbots are also capable of learning from user feedback. If many users ask the same question, the AI will recognize this and adjust its responses accordingly. This capability is invaluable in a sector where knowledge can evolve quickly, and staying informed is crucial.

Interactivity and User Feedback

One vital feature of these chatbots is that they can continuously learn. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask questions and engage with the system! As we gather user data to analyze, we will provide updates on how it improves over time. User feedback is essential for fine-tuning accuracy and enriching the experience.

Upcoming Developments

We are returning to Vanguard tomorrow. We are excited to host a week-long visit from Praxis Automation. They will assist us in completing the commissioning of our control systems and iron out some evident bugs. More updates will follow next Saturday as we start our journey up the US East Coast to points further north.

Until then—have a wonderful weekend!

Chris Leigh-Jones

Explore more about AI Chatbots here.