Chat GPT for Sailing (AI Engine)

[BlowingOldBoots]

If you do not know what Chat GPT is Google is your friend. Basically it is a form of Artificial Intelligence that translates text requests into a code and then compares the request against a global database. The AI then works out what it thinks is the best answer and translates that back into text and presents it to the requester. The process is iterative. After reviewing the Chat GPT answer, you ask Chat GPT to review again and it should inmprove quality and accuracy. It works incredibly fast and is not guaranteed to be correct, user discretion advised.

So, I asked Chat GPT "What is the best time to sail through the Cuan Sound?"

Chat GPT responded in text with: -

The best time to sail through the Cuan Sound would depend on several factors such as the tidal conditions, weather, and your personal preferences. The Cuan Sound is a narrow stretch of water between the Isle of Luing and Seil Island in Scotland, and it is known for its strong tidal currents, which can make sailing through it challenging.
To sail through the Cuan Sound safely and with ease, you should plan your trip during slack water, which is the period between tides when the water is relatively calm and there is little or no current. The exact timing of slack water will depend on the tidal conditions on the day of your trip, which can vary from day to day.
It is recommended that you consult tide tables and weather forecasts before planning your trip and that you seek advice from local experts, such as harbor masters or experienced sailors, to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information on the best time to sail through the Cuan Sound.

An innocuous answer on the face of it, except if you start at the beginning of slack water before the current turns against you. However, that could be a safety feature as well, which used to be the recommendation for transiting the Gulf of Corryvrecken (this was stated in the CCC pilot if I remember correctly).

A more refined request, and the second iteration gave the quote below. I did a 3rd iteration and it told me that "as a language model" it does not have access to tide tables and to consult a local expert. It did not mention Claymore.

To determine the best time to transit the Cuan Sound on April 24th, 2023, you need to consider the tidal predictions for that location on that day. The optimal time for transit would be when the tide current is flowing in the same direction as you want to travel, as this will reduce the effort required to make progress.
You can obtain tidal predictions for the Cuan Sound by consulting local tide tables or using online resources such as the UK Hydrographic Office's easyTide website. Once you have obtained the tidal predictions, you will need to identify the times of high and low tides at the Cuan Sound on April 24th, 2023.
The optimal time to transit the Cuan Sound will depend on the direction you want to travel. If you want to travel from the east to the west, the best time to transit would be shortly after low tide. If you want to travel from the west to the east, the best time to transit would be shortly before high tide.
It's important to note that the tidal currents in the Cuan Sound can be very strong and unpredictable, so it's always advisable to exercise caution and plan your transit carefully. It's also a good idea to check the weather forecast and sea conditions before setting out.

Better but no mention of Tidal Atlases.

This is a technology that has a long way to go, but will probably develop rapidly. For example, in Microsoft Word, it predicts how a sentence could be finished, a grammar module can detect styles such as formal, technical, informal, conversational and suggest edits.

In the sailing world, it could generate recommended pilotage plans and destinations based on various input criteria such as boat size, crew strengths, desired weather, shore side facilities, desired passage duration, as examples.

For me, the dichotomy will always be between the need to get away from it all and the challenge of a more basic experience. The convenience of AI might even be an enabler for both. Fascinating stuff.

[BlowingOldBoots]

And for that common question, AI, is quite useless: -

The best anchor for a yacht depends on a variety of factors, including the size and weight of the yacht, the type of bottom surface where the anchor will be used, the weather and sea conditions in the area, and the specific intended use of the yacht (e.g., cruising, racing, or fishing).
Some of the most commonly used types of anchors for yachts include:
Plow anchors: These are popular for their holding power in a variety of bottom surfaces, including sand, mud, and grass.
Claw anchors: These are similar to plow anchors, but they have a different shape that allows them to set more quickly.
Fluke anchors: These are lightweight and easy to handle, making them a good choice for smaller yachts.
Danforth anchors: These are known for their ability to hold in soft or muddy bottoms.
Delta anchors: These are a newer type of anchor that is designed to set quickly and hold well in a variety of conditions.
Ultimately, the best anchor for a yacht depends on the individual needs and circumstances of the yacht owner. It is recommended to consult with a marine expert or professional to determine the most appropriate anchor for your specific yacht and usage.

More iterations produced less detailed responses, which suggests that even AI can work out what is the best anchor. Where have we seen that before ...

[Gardenshed]

and what does it say about:
1. how to look after a teak deck
2. how to varnish floorboards
3. what to do if you see someone flying an ensign with a saltire in the top quadrant?

[BlowingOldBoots]

and what does it say about:
1. how to look after a teak deck
2. how to varnish floorboards
3. what to do if you see someone flying an ensign with a saltire in the top quadrant?

In less than a minute, all three answers, not sure I would oil a teak deck: -

Teak is a popular material for boat decking due to its durability, water-resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure that your teak deck lasts for years and retains its beauty. Here are some tips for looking after a teak deck:
Clean regularly: Regular cleaning is essential to remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants from the teak deck's surface. Use a soft-bristled brush and a teak-specific cleaner to scrub the deck. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners that can damage the teak wood or strip away its natural oils. Stick to teak-specific cleaners or a mild soap solution.
Sand the deck: Over time, teak wood can become gray and weathered. Sanding the deck with fine-grit sandpaper can restore the wood's natural color and smooth surface. Be careful not to sand too aggressively or too often, as this can damage the wood.
Apply teak oil: Teak oil can help protect the wood from the elements and keep it looking its best. Apply the oil with a clean cloth or brush, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Be sure to apply the oil in a well-ventilated area and avoid applying too much.
Cover the deck: If possible, cover the teak deck with a canvas or other protective material when not in use. This can help protect the wood from the elements and prolong its lifespan.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your teak deck remains in good condition for years to come.

Varnishing a cabin sole is a relatively straightforward process. Here are the steps you can follow:
Clean the surface: First, make sure that the surface is clean and free of any dust, dirt, or debris. Use a vacuum or a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose dirt or debris.
Sand the surface: Next, sand the surface lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any old varnish or stains. Make sure to sand with the grain of the wood and remove any sanding dust with a tack cloth.
Apply the first coat of varnish: Use a good quality marine varnish and apply the first coat with a foam brush or a bristle brush. Make sure to apply the varnish in long, even strokes and work with the grain of the wood. Allow the varnish to dry completely before applying the next coat.
Sand between coats: Once the first coat has dried, lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper. Remove any sanding dust with a tack cloth and apply the next coat of varnish.
Apply additional coats: Repeat the process of sanding and applying varnish until you achieve the desired level of gloss and protection. Most cabin soles will require 3-5 coats of varnish for a durable and glossy finish.
Allow to cure: Allow the final coat of varnish to cure for at least 24 hours before walking on the surface or placing any objects on it.
Remember, varnishing a cabin sole requires patience and attention to detail. Take your time and follow these steps carefully to achieve a beautiful and durable finish.

If you see someone flying an ensign with a saltire in the top quadrant, it is likely the flag of Scotland. This flag is also known as the Saint Andrew's Cross or the Saltire.
There is generally no need to take any action if you see someone flying the Scottish flag. It is a recognized national flag and can be flown by individuals or organizations in Scotland or abroad.
However, if you are in a location where it is not appropriate to fly any flag or if the flag is being flown improperly or disrespectfully, you may want to consider reporting the issue to the relevant authorities. In such cases, you can contact the local authorities, such as the police or local council, to inform them of the situation.

[BlowingOldBoots]

It is free to register for the free version. There is a subscriber version that allows access to custom databases. I would not trust it yet but the stock markets were worked for profit by a young lad who knew how to manipulate AI data.

[Gardenshed]

"Remember, varnishing a cabin sole requires patience and attention to detail"
bollo**s: those are not my strong points!!