Robots to get to work at Falmouth Sailing Week

Spectators at Falmouth Sailing Week will see some unusual race markers on the water next month – giant robotic floats which appear to move around by themselves. 

Cornwall Council is sponsoring two of the seven GPS controlled, battery-powered race markers at this year’s event from August 9-18. 

It is investing in the eco-friendly MarkSetBots from its Fal and Helford Section 106 environmental fund paid for by developers for planning applications in the area. 

The technologically advanced buoys are better for protecting marine habitats than standard race markers as they do not need an anchor that can impact the seabed. 

Falmouth Sailing Week will be only the second regatta in the country where these unique course-marking bots will be used. 

A member of the committee boat team can control the brightly coloured, doughnut-shaped floats remotely through satellite navigation.  

The bot engines remain in place using a battery-driven electric motor, so no carbon fuels are necessary and solar panels are used to top up the batteries during use.  

As well as being better for the environment they will reduce the workload of volunteers in the bay who would normally need to tow race marks out to the race area and tow them back again after the competition. 

The Fal and Helford Section 106 fund is a developer levy specifically earmarked for measures to reduce recreational impacts on the Fal and Helford Special Area of Conservation and its numerous important habitats and species.  

Cllr Martyn Alvey, Cornwall’s cabinet member for environment and climate change, said:

“We’re happy to be supporting the MarkSetBots which will not only show the competitors where to race but be a spectacle themselves as they move around on the water. 

“As a keen sailor I’m looking forward to seeing these technological marvels at work and they’re a great example of how we’re protecting our marine habitats while supporting recreation on our beautiful estuaries and rivers.” 

Story posted July 31, 2024