Revolutionary Robots to Debut at Falmouth Sailing Week

Next month, Falmouth Sailing Week spectators will witness a cutting-edge innovation on the water—giant robotic floats serving as race markers. These futuristic devices, known as MarkSetBots, are set to make waves as they replace traditional buoys during the event scheduled from 9th-18th August.

Eco-Friendly Tech at the Forefront

Cornwall Council is sponsoring two of the seven GPS-controlled, battery-powered race markers, which are designed to be more environmentally friendly than their conventional counterparts. These robotic buoys are anchored not by traditional means that can disturb the seabed, but by an advanced system that uses satellite navigation to stay in place.

Powered by electric motors, the MarkSetBots require no carbon fuels. Instead, they are recharged using solar panels, making them a sustainable choice for marking race courses. This technological advancement not only helps protect marine habitats but also significantly reduces the workload for volunteers who traditionally manage the race markers.

Cornwall Council’s Role

The investment in these eco-friendly bots comes from Cornwall Council’s Fal and Helford Section 106 environmental fund. This fund, contributed by developers through planning applications in the area, is specifically aimed at reducing the recreational impacts on the Fal and Helford Special Area of Conservation.

Martyn Alvey, Cornwall’s cabinet member for environment and climate change, expressed excitement about the introduction of these innovative devices. “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,” Martyn said. He also highlighted the dual benefits of protecting marine environments while enhancing recreational activities on the estuaries and rivers.

A Unique Attraction

This year’s Falmouth Sailing Week will be only the second regatta in the UK to use these unique course-marking robots. The bright, doughnut-shaped floats are expected to be a highlight of the event, drawing attention not just for their functionality but also for their striking appearance as they glide autonomously across the water.

As Cornwall Council continues its efforts to balance environmental conservation with public enjoyment of its natural resources, the deployment of MarkSetBots at Falmouth Sailing Week represents a significant step forward.

For those interested in learning more about how the Fal and Helford Special Area of Conservation is used for recreation, Cornwall Council is conducting a survey and offering a chance to enter a prize draw. Further information can also be found on the Council’s Nature Recovery Hub.