Yacht and super yacht owners increasingly want to secure their maritime state, but the appropriate security equipment and installers aren’t always readily available.
It is not just the bigger vessels that need a viable solution. Owners of any size vessel have to decide whether to invest over £5,000-6,000 into a specialised alarm system or to adapt a car/motorcycle alarm system. The latter option is quite a hassle as navigation, key vessel indicators, controls, and security are expected to be accessible on a digital dashboard and smartphone — anywhere, anytime.
This is when companies such as UK-based Marine Energy Systems (MES) can offer their expertise. MES works with big players and customers in this sector, including Sunseeker, a well-known luxury super yacht manufacturer, and many others.
MES had a request to supply boats with a security system which is compatible with the yachts’ onboard software.
Ideally, the system needed to support cellular connectivity; have a mobile app to report alerts; be straightforward to install; and of course, it must look slick to fit luxury interiors.
The answer was found using Ajax security systems. Ajax Systems are integrated via a proprietary API with wireless detectors that fit both luxury yachts interiors and smaller boats.
Once tested Ajax devices, Marine Energy Systems’ engineers appreciated a hassle-free approach to system installation. All detectors are equipped with SmartBracket panels — there is no need to disassemble the enclosure. To connect a detector to the system, an engineer just scans a QR code with the Ajax app, and the device is ready for configuring. The system parameters and detector configuration can be done from a desktop or mobile app. This system feature helps Marine Energy Systems in providing remote technical support throughout the entire vessel lifecycle.
Lee Smith, Operations Manager at Marine Energy Systems said, “I see a huge opportunity here. We work with various shipyards building leisure, commercial, and service vessels — and all of them need some security solution. Having 25 years of experience in the boating industry, I think Ajax is a big leap forward, allowing us to build complex systems that will serve our customers all over the world.”
Battery power became another practical aspect to bear in mind. Wireless devices do not require a power supply from a vessel at all. In turn, Ajax control panel hubs can be connected to the onboard electricity via the 6 V power supply unit. Backup batteries and low power consumption ensure long-lasting protection with no additional maintenance.
Depending on the model, hubs support 2G/3G/4G SIM cards and Wi-Fi providing stable connectivity. There is no need to purchase and install extra communication modules.
To integrate security system management with vessel software, Ajax provides engineers with the Enterprise API.