“Where they stand out is the use of AI to calculate the best route; their AI companion can calculate and choose the best route given their vessel’s length and draft.”
“…. Ditch Navigation’s patent-pending technology takes full advantage of AI and AIS data while retaining the traditional use of NOAA charts and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers depth information.”
“Ditch is an AI-powered navigation aid that shows boaters the real tracks of previous boaters and color codes them by verified Local Knowledge paths to recommend the Smart Path.”
Why Ditch is Different
We believe in the power of real-time data to provide intelligent routes. That's why Ditch is built on a foundation of continuously updated information from verified sources like AIS, NOAA charts, and Army Corps of Engineers depth soundings, empowering you to make informed decisions on the water. We're not just giving you layers of information on a map. We're using that data to show you the optimal route with Smart Path.
Smart path™
Ditch is the only boat application to use statistical models to analyze historical route data and generate an optimal route based on travel data patterns. This technology is Patent Pending.
Depth Sounding
Our high-definition coloring enhances visibility, making it easier for boaters to interpret the charts and plan their routes. In addition to NOAA depth sounding contours, Ditch includes the U.S. Army Corps of engineers survey data (where available) at no extra cost.
Local Knowledge
Traditional plotters and apps all work the same way: They create a route based on the depth soundings charts. Ditch approaches navigation differently, by identifying the routes taken by captains with local knowledge.
Satellite View Mode
Boaters can utilize this mode to identify landmarks, coastal features, and navigational aids with unprecedented clarity.
customize your map
Routes created can be filtered based on boat size, age, and other factors that matter to you.
As Featured In
Power & Motortyacht “New Way to Navigate” and “The Ditch App” by Shane Scott.
Youtube video by BoatTEST Captain Trip Smith
How To Use Ditch
$30 Annual Subscription
Ditch isn't just another navigation tool — it's your data-driven guide to the safest, most efficient routes.
For only $30/year, enhance your existing setup with Smart Path™ technology.
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Ditch is available on both mobile and web platforms, so you can use it on any Android or Apple phone or tablet, and use it free on the web.
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Probably not. While boaters increasingly rely on phones and tablets for wind, weather, dockage, music, navigation and other features there are still proprietary protocols for sonar and radar. However, Ditch routes can be uploaded to a chart plotter in GPX format (and vice versa: routes created by other systems can be imported into Ditch).
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Ditch is designed for segments that have been frequented by boaters with AIS transmitters. If you're not getting results try creating a shorter route and then select one of the red waypoint targets and select 'Extend Route' to build a longer path.
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These depth areas represent U.S. Army Corps of Engineers survey data going back to 2020. You can view a key of depths by toggling ‘Show Legend’ under settings.