Build a central marine computer with Raspberry Pi + ESP32 and open-source tools (Home Assistant, Signal K). Connect NMEA 2000/0183, create dashboards & alerts, and add remote access via 4G/Starlink. Projects include full engine monitoring (temperature, oil pressure, tachometer), bilge/leak/fire alarms, battery SOC & solar, tank levels, GPS/anchor watch, and automations that protect your boat. Step-by-step guides with parts lists, wiring, and code—budget-friendly (~$400). Clear enough for non-technical owners, with plenty of depth for tinkerers. Works on older and modern boats; no lock-in or subscriptions. OTA updates and reliability tips. Wiring diagrams and tested configs.
I’m Rob — sailor (20+ years offshore) with a Computer Science degree and 25 years in IT as a programmer, systems designer, UNIX specialist, and infrastructure architect. I evaluate platforms through a technical & operational lens—not just whether they can work, but how they hold up long-term for real-world use.