1. Set up

    Charge phones, fit waterproof cases, and mount them securely.

  2. Start recording

    Each boat starts a session on the Android app before launching (or as soon as practical).

  3. Sail the session

    Coach as normal. Keep the session focused on one or two objectives.

  4. Finish and get ashore

    Stop recording once back in or once the session ends.

  5. Debrief

    Open the debrief tool on a computer or tablet and review key moments together.

Equipment

Boat kit

  • Android phone (second-hand handsets are often sufficient)
  • Waterproof case
  • Secure mounting or lanyard
  • Optional: Bluetooth speaker for push-to-talk coaching

Coach kit

  • Tablet or laptop for the debrief
  • Optional: portable Wi-Fi hotspot (useful if phones don’t have data)
  • Charging power bank(s)
  • A simple session plan (objectives + drills)

Common questions

  • Do sailors need mobile data on the water?

    No. Sessions can be recorded offline. Uploading can happen later when a connection is available.

  • Can we run this with a club hotspot?

    Yes. A portable Wi-Fi hotspot can work well on shore, and sometimes on the water depending on range.

  • Do I need one phone per boat?

    For best results, yes. Some groups share phones between boats across sessions, but one per boat is simpler.

  • Will this work for club racing as well as training?

    Yes. The same flow applies: record the race, then debrief afterwards. Comparison is often more useful with more boats.

  • How do we mount the phone safely?

    Use a waterproof case and a secure attachment. Avoid anything that can snag sheets or trap a sailor.

  • What about battery life?

    Charge before the session. For long days, use a power bank between sails.

  • What if the phone gets wet or a session ends abruptly?

    That happens. The aim is robust “good enough” recording, not perfection.

  • How do we keep the debrief calm and useful?

    Pick 1–2 moments to focus on, and agree one takeaway for the next session.

Keep it simple: record, review, decide what to change next time.

Next steps

Want to pilot Dinghy Coach, or just follow along? Join the waitlist for updates.

Questions about running it at your club or training centre? Contact us at hello@dinghy.coach.