The TillerBuddy™ Experience

The TillerBuddy™ system is the ultimate upgrade for the modern narrow boat helm, bringing ultimate canal navigation convenience and multi-function control directly to the palm of your hand.

We designed the TillerBuddy™ Strap-toTiller Remote under popular demand to ensure your vital commands live where your hand already rests. By integrating a command center directly onto your canal boat tiller handle, we eliminate the need to reach for a dashboard or take your eyes off the canal. It’s about making every maneuver—from blind bends to tunnel navigation—feel smooth, sophisticated, and entirely effortless.

The beauty of the system is its flexibility. You can choose our Wireless LED Spot Lights (Tillerbuddy Beam) and Wireless Horn for a true "no-wire, no-installation" setup, or use our 4-Relay Command Hub to take control of your boat's existing 12v horn, light and other circuits.

Security is at the heart of the system. Our dedicated Panic Button feature allows you to instantly raise an alert; when paired with our Beam and Horn, it triggers a red flash and audible blast to deter intruders and draw attention when you need it most on the canal.

Whether you choose: The pre-configured Option 1 The Deckhand Bundle, or Option 2 the custom Build-a-Buddy V3, with the original V1 DIY Kit, TillerBuddy™ ensures you are always in command of your vessel’s auxiliary 12v systems without ever letting go of the helm.

Email: info@tillerbuddy.co.uk

The "No-Wire, No-Tools" Professional Solution.

The TillerBuddy™ Deckhand is a premium, 100% Wireless command system designed specifically for the demands of the Canal waterways. It allows you to add professional-grade LED Spot Lights, security, and Horn control to your vessel in seconds—without touching a single 12v wire or drilling a single hole.

Why Choose the Deckhand?

• Zero Installation: High-strength magnetic mounting and integrated Wireless micro-receivers mean the system is ready to use the moment it’s unboxed.

• Safety & Communication: Instant, thumb-activated Boat Horn control on the canal for blind bends, Tunnel Navigation, and bridge holes.

• 360° Illumination: Dual high-intensity LED Lights (TillerBuddy Beam) provide unparalleled visibility in deep Tunnels or can be magnetically mounted to the side of the Boat to light up the towpath as you approach your mooring.

• The Shield (Panic Mode): Instant peace of mind. One touch triggers a synchronized alert and Bright Red LED Lighting to deter intruders or signal for help.

• Dual-Purpose Remote: The V3 Remote Control features a heavy-duty, rubber-backed strap that securely fits any Tiller Handle, or fits in your pocket for Wireless Lighting control from the towpath.

The Command Layout:

1. Button 1 (Top): The Shield / Panic Mode – Triggers a synchronized alert of sound and Red LED Lighting.

2. Buttons 2 & 3: Dual Spot Light Beams – Independent control of your high-intensity Navigation Lighting.

3. Button 4 (Bottom): Instant Horn – Rapid access to the powerful 125dB Wireless signaling system.

• USB-C Charging Cables included.

Every TillerBuddy™ is meticulously built and tested on my Narrowboat to ensure maximum reliability for the Canal environment. Continuous Cruisers: Select 'Click & Collect' at checkout to have your order delivered to one of 3,500+ UK lockers or shops near your current Canal mooring.

Technical Specifications:

TillerBuddy™ LED Spot Lights (x2 Beams)

• Brightness: 2,000 Lumens per unit with high-intensity LED (including Warm White mode) for Canal Tunnel Navigation.

• Durability: IP54-rated anti-corrosive housing; 360° rotatable magnetic base—a rugged 12v Alternative for the Narrowboat exterior.

• Battery: Built-in 4400mAh USB-C Rechargeable Lithium-ion (3–8 hours runtime); no Traditional 12v wiring required.

TillerBuddy™ Wireless Boat Horn

• Output: High-performance 125dB electric signal (Black Aluminum Alloy) for instant Navigation alerts.

• Mounting: Integrated high-strength magnetic base for any steel Boat surface or Tiller setup.

• Battery: 1300mAh USB-C Rechargeable Lithium-ion (Multi-month standby life).

TillerBuddy™ V3 Wireless Remote Control

• Mounting: Heavy-duty, adjustable rubber-backed strap (fits any Narrowboat Tiller Handle).

• Design: Ergonomic layout with high-contrast, tactile symbols for eyes-free Remote Control of your Lights and Horn.

TillerBuddy™ Remote Control Series

The Ergonomic Heart of the System.

Our remote range is the result of years of evolution, designed to bridge the gap between high-tech control and the rugged reality of life on the tiller. Each model is a universal, non-invasive command center that puts the power exactly where your hand naturally rests.

The V3 Standard: The Original Heavy-Duty Powerhouse

The flagship of the TillerBuddy™ range. Built for maximum presence and tactile feedback, the V3 is the high-performance core for those who want a solid, substantial interface.

• Tactile Feedback: Each of the four buttons is designed for "blind" operation. Once you know your layout, you can trigger your horn or lights by feel, keeping your eyes fixed on the canal ahead.

• Universal Fit: Features a heavy-duty, high-grip rubber back-strap that securely wraps around any tiller handle. No screws, no glue, and no permanent modifications to your boat.

The Mini: Streamlined & Discreet

All the power of the TillerBuddy™ system in a compact, low-profile form factor. The Mini is engineered for boaters who prefer a minimalist helm without sacrificing durability.

• Less Invasive Design: A smaller footprint on the tiller handle that stays out of the way while remaining perfectly accessible.

• Pocket-Sized Portability: When you moor up, the Mini unstraps in seconds. Slip it into your pocket to use as a remote for your Beam lights, illuminating the towpath or your gangplank as you return to the boat at night.

The Wearable: Maximum Security & Integrated Access

Our most adaptable remote yet, designed to follow you from the tiller to the gunwales. The Wearable is the ultimate choice for peace of mind, single-handed boating, and high-tech security.

• Integrated NFC Technology: The Wearable is the only remote in our range equipped with a built-in NFC chip, acting as your digital master key for The Sentry™ Padlock. A simple tap of your wrist unlocks your cabin, gas locker, or bike.

• The Secure Choice: For those who worry about a remote slipping overboard, the Wearable stays firmly attached to your wrist. It’s also the perfect "pathfinder"—use it to trigger your Beams and light up the towpath as you return to your boat in the dark.

• Dual-Mount Engineering: Specifically designed to be either strapped securely to the tiller or worn on the wrist, keeping your commands within reach however you move.

Key Features Across the Range:

• Bespoke UVDTF Branding: Every remote is finished with high-durability, weather-resistant UVDTF symbols, ensuring your command icons remain crisp and clear through seasons of sun and rain.

• Ruggedized Build: Encased in a water-resistant, anti-corrosive housing built specifically for the damp, demanding environment of the British canal network.

• Universal. Effortless. Essential. Designed to fit your life, your boat, and your handle—without the compromise.

Technical Specifications: TillerBuddy™ V3 Remote

Housing Model: Alutech AT-4N Enclosure Rating: IP54 (Dust protected and splash resistant—ideal for marine use) Core Electronics: Custom-swapped 4-Channel 433MHz Learning Code Board Frequency: 433.92 MHz Modulation: ASK (Amplitude Shift Keying) Encoding Type: EV1527 Learning Code Operating Range: 50m – 100m (Open space) Power Source: 6V High-Output System (Dual CR2016 Lithium Button Cells) Power Upgrade: Factory 3V board upgraded to 6V for enhanced signal range and reliability Physical Dimensions: 70mm x 38mm x 13mm Buttons: 4 Tactile Buttons with Custom UVDTF Branding

Included in the Box:

• 1x TillerBuddy™ V3 Strap-to-Tiller Remote (Pre-configured and branded)

• 1x Heavy-Duty Rubber Back-Strap (For universal mounting)

• 1x Free Keyfob Zip Case (Color and design may vary)

The 6V Advantage: Most generic remotes struggle with signal strength around steel narrowboat hulls. By upgrading the power source from 3V to 6V, the TillerBuddy™ V3 provides a significantly stronger signal, ensuring your horn or lights trigger reliably whether you are at the helm, the bow, or on the towpath.

For Horn Function Only – Works with All TillerBuddy Control Systems.

We are thrilled to offer this upgraded Zero-Wiring option for the TillerBuddy™ system, making instant Boat Horn control more accessible than ever before. Have you ever wished for a modern 12v Horn Replacement but been put off by complex wiring? Is your original Canal Boat Horn not working? Are you unsure about tackling your Narrowboat electrics? Or maybe your Boat doesn't even have a Traditional 12v Horn installed?

We heard you! This revolutionary Wireless unit is designed for complete peace of mind, eliminating all wiring worries. Simply magnetically position the rugged, aluminum 125dB Horn unit anywhere on your steel Boat. Job done!

The unit wirelessly pairs with any Buddy Control Units and is fully USB-C Rechargeable.

Experience instant, thumb-activated Horn control that feels completely natural, without touching a single 12v wire. It’s the perfect New Replacement for those with broken systems, ensuring safe Navigation through blind bends, locks, and Tunnels.

Why it works: The TillerBuddy™ Horn comes with its own powerful, integrated 125dB signal and Wireless receiver. Just charge it up, attach it Magnetically, and your chosen Remote Control on the Tiller Handle wirelessly activates it. No fuss, no electricians, and no more missing essential safety. Navigate with comfort, control, and unmatched simplicity.

Casing: Durable Black Aluminum Alloy Dimensions: Compact 70mm x 70mm x 46mm Wireless Type: Integrated receiver paired exclusively with Buddy v1, v2, and v3 controls

TillerBuddy LED Spot Lights (The TillerBuddy Beam)

Beam The TillerBuddy Beam is the ultimate Wireless Tunnel Light, specifically engineered for the unique challenges of the UK Canal Network. Designed to blend seamlessly with your setup, it features a rugged, impact-resistant housing and a high-strength, 360° rotatable Magnetic base for effortless mounting on any steel Narrowboat roof.

Whether you are navigating the 5,000 yards of Standedge or tight local bridge holes, these LED Spot Lights provide unparalleled visibility without the need for Traditional 12v wiring or drilling.

• Versatile Positioning: Featuring a heavy-duty, protective Magnetic base that secures the unit to your Boat roof in seconds for Navigation, or to the hull to illuminate the towpath when approaching your mooring at night.

• 2000LM Multi-Mode LED Lighting: High-intensity output with 6 modes, including Warm White for reduced glare and stepless dimming (5%–100%) to suit any Canal environment.

• All-Weather Durability: A rugged 12v Replacement built with a sturdy, anti-corrosive housing rated to IP54 to reliably withstand the damp environments of deep Canal Tunnels and water splashes.

Ultra-Bright 2000LM LED: Delivering up to 2000 lumens of high-intensity light to illuminate the entire tunnel path ahead. Features 6 lighting modes, including cool white (up to 6500K) for maximum visibility and warm white options to reduce glare during long passages.

TillerBuddy™ NFC Command Lock

Keyless Security. Integrated Control.

Expand the capabilities of your TillerBuddy™ system beyond vessel control and secure your boat's most critical access points. This NFC-enabled padlock merges heavy-duty physical security with advanced digital access control, creating the ultimate keyless locking solution for the canal network.

How It Works: The TillerBuddy™ Integration

Important Note: This padlock is specifically designed to work exclusively with the TillerBuddy™ Wearable Remote.

As the only remote in our series with a built-in NFC chip, the Wearable acts as your digital "master key." A simple tap of your wrist or the remote against the lock face triggers the mechanism. No apps to open, no codes to remember, and no searching for keys in the dark.

Perfect For securing:

• Cabin Companionways: For seamless, integrated access control to your main living space.

• Gas Lockers: Eliminate specialized locker keys and keep fuel storage secure.

• Cruising Bikes: Secure your shore-side transport with the convenience of wrist-worn access.

• Onboard Storage: Ideal for lockers containing valuable tools or equipment.

Features & Construction:

• Triple-Layer Access: While optimized for NFC, this lock offers flexible redundant access methods for total reliability:

  1. NFC Tap: For your Wearable remote (primary method).

  2. Combination Touchpad: A backlit digital keypad (like the one shown above in image_0.png) allows entry via a custom code.

  3. Physical Backup Key: For complete fail-safe peace of mind.

• Heavy-Duty Shackle: Crafted from hardened steel (marked "SUS-304" for superior corrosion resistance) to withstand physical attacks.

• Rechargeable CR2 Power: Powered by a rechargeable CR2 battery for long life and reliable operation in all seasons. The battery is easily maintained and ensures years of service.

• Rugged Canal-Network Build: Encased in a weather-resistant, anti-corrosive housing, designed to thrive in damp, exposed environments.

Security. Seamless. Integrated. The NFC Command Lock is the logical next step for the connected narrowboat.

Build-a-Buddy™: Your Custom Command Suite

Tailored to your boat. Built by you.

If our Deckhand Bundle doesn’t quite fit your needs, the Build-a-Buddy program allows you to design your own wireless setup. Whether you want to control your boat's existing circuits or add our cable-free accessories, you can build it in three simple steps.

Step 1: Choose Your Remote

Select the interface that best suits your handling style:

• The V3 Standard: The original heavy-duty powerhouse. Our flagship strap-to-tiller remote designed for maximum durability and tactile control.

• The Mini: Performance in a smaller package. A streamlined, less invasive strap-to-tiller option for those who prefer a low-profile helm.

• The Wearable: Ultimate versatility. Engineered to be worn on the person or strapped to the tiller, keeping your commands within reach however you move.

Step 2: Choose Your Design & Layout

Define your interface. Select your preferred button layout and take advantage of our Optional Design Icon feature.

Note: We use high-durability UVDTF branding to customize your remote with professional symbols. We will contact you after purchase to discuss your specific icon design needs.

Step 3: Choose Your Components

Mix and match our wireless hardware or bridge the gap to your boat’s 12v system:

• The Beam: Our wireless magnetic 2,000-lumen LED spotlight.

• The Horn: Our wireless magnetic 125dB boat horn.

• The Hubs: From a Simple 1-Relay Receiver to our Wired 4-Relay Command Hub, these units connect to your boat's control panel to trigger your existing onboard systems.

Why Build-a-Buddy?

• Bespoke Branding: UVDTF symbols ensure your remote looks professional and is easy to navigate by sight.

• Scalable: Start with a simple setup and add more Beams or a Command Hub later.

• The Maker’s Choice: We provide the pro-grade electronics; you provide the craftsmanship.

Only if you want to control your boats own 12v electrical circuits

Otherwise just stick with our wireless accessories.

TillerBuddy™ 4-Relay Command Hub: The Brain of the System

• The Command Hub is an optional, high-performance upgrade for boaters who want to bridge the gap between their wireless remote and their boat’s existing onboard electronics. Housed in a rugged aluminum body, this hub provides four independent relays, allowing you to control your vessel's circuits with professional-grade reliability.

• Customizable Integration Unlike pre-wired systems, the Command Hub is designed for total flexibility. You decide what each relay controls. If you choose specific lighting or horn functions during your Build-a-Buddy setup, those relays will come pre-wired for you. Any remaining relays are provided as open channels (Relay 1, Relay 2, etc.), allowing you to wire in additional auxiliary circuits at your own pace.

• Rugged Marine Build The hub features a durable aluminum housing designed to withstand the marine environment. It is engineered for clean installation, featuring pre-made output holes with integrated wire clamps to ensure your connections remain secure even with the vibrations of the engine.

• Simple Wiring Designed with the DIY boater in mind, the internal 4-relay board allows you to consolidate your wireless triggers into one central location. This setup keeps your boat's wiring tidy while giving you the power to modernize your helm without a full dashboard overhaul.

• Continuous Control The Hub works alongside your existing setup. Your boat's original manual switches remain fully operational, meaning you gain wireless convenience without losing the reliability of your traditional controls.

• Instant Response Utilizing high-speed 433MHz technology, the Hub offers a near-instant 30ms response time. Whether you are signaling on a blind bend or illuminating a dark tunnel, the Hub ensures your equipment reacts the moment you touch the remote.

• Maintenance & Expansion The pairing protocol is handled with a simple one-button process. This makes it easy to sync new remotes or re-assign buttons if you decide to change your relay configuration in the future.

• The Evolution of the V1: The Original Tiller-Integrated Concept

• The TillerBuddy™ story began in 2025 with a single vision by founder Benjamin Donnaghue. Drawing on over 25 years of professional experience in marine electronics and electrical engineering, Benjamin invented the world’s first bore-integrated wireless control system to solve a fundamental safety problem: the need for seamless, hand-on-handle control while steering.

• The V1 was a true breakthrough—the first of its kind to house a high-performance wireless transmitter directly inside a traditional wooden canal boat tiller handle. This original design introduced our signature 30mm blue-illuminated horn button, setting a new global standard for helm ergonomics. It was this innovation—developed and tested on the UK’s inland waterways—that proved boaters were ready for a more intuitive helm experience, launching the TillerBuddy™ brand.

• As the concept evolved, so did the technology. Benjamin moved the innovation forward through the V2 and eventually to the current V3 "Strap-to-Tiller" system. This shift allowed the technology to become universal, fitting any boat without the need for permanent modifications or drilling.

• Today, while TillerBuddy™ focuses on advanced electronics and our universal flagship products, we continue to honor the original V1 design. By providing our precision-engineered electronic cores and signature buttons to selected master woodturners, Benjamin’s original bore-integrated concept lives on through the craftsmanship of makers across the waterways. Our focus remains on the "digital heart" of the system, ensuring TillerBuddy™ remains the most reliable deckhand on the water.

WHY NOT BUILD YOUR OWN?

The Build-a-Buddy V1 | Professional Integration Kit

The Original TillerBuddy™ DNA.

The V1 provides the high-performance electronic core—the same meticulous circuitry used in our original flagship product—in a compact kit for the traditional narrowboat owner.

• Integrated Design: Perfect for boaters who want to craft their own bespoke Tiller Handle or modify an existing one for a flush, "built-in" look.

• The Signature Interface: Features our iconic 30mm blue-illuminated Horn Button and a 1-Channel 12v Relay, specifically tuned for marine horn triggering.

• The Digital Heart: A pre-configured, high-performance wireless transmitter core designed for reliable operation in the unique marine environment.

Technical Specifications & Integration To protect the integrity of the TillerBuddy™ system, full technical boring dimensions and internal wiring schematics are provided in the Digital Installation Guide included with every purchase.

Intellectual Property & Terms of Use

The "Bore-Integrated" wireless tiller control configuration is the original invention and Protected Design of Benjamin Donnaghue (© 2025). Purchase of this kit is subject to the following terms:

• No Rights of Invention: Purchase of this kit does not grant the maker the right to claim the "tiller-integrated" concept, mechanical configuration, or electronic application as their own original design.

• Commercial Restriction: This kit may not be used to create, market, or sell a competing line of "Integrated Tiller Controls" under a different brand name without a formal, written commercial licensing agreement from Benjamin Donnaghue.

• Attribution: Any handle created for resale using a TillerBuddy™ kit must be clearly credited as "Powered by TillerBuddy™ Technology."

• V2 Series: The Evolution of Integration

• The V2 was a pivotal step in the TillerBuddy journey. Building on the foundation of Benjamin Donnaghue’s original V1 design, the V2 focused on refining the integration of electronics into a more standardized handle format.

• While the V1 proved the concept of wireless tiller horn control, the V2 pushed the boundaries of multi-control, introducing dedicated commands for bow thrusters, lighting, and auxiliary systems. It represented the moment TillerBuddy moved from a bespoke invention to a professional marine product line.

• Safety & Evolution: Why We Prioritize Simplicity TillerBuddy™ was born from a simple ambition: to bring "plug-and-play" wireless solutions to the narrowboat community. While the development of our V2 multi-function system proved that wireless bow thruster control was possible, it also revealed a move toward complexity.

• These systems often require professional, high-level electronic installations that stray from our core mission of providing accessible, user-friendly upgrades. Incorrect installation of high-draw thruster controls poses significant safety risks. To protect our customers and maintain the integrity of our products, we have made the strategic decision to move to a universal auxiliary relay system, focusing on true plug-and-play reliability.

• We spent a long while perfecting bespoke handles only to realize the best way to help every boater was to make our tech universal. The V3 is the high-performance core of the TillerBuddy system, designed to fit your life, your boat, and your handle—without the compromise.

• By focusing on the V3, we have moved toward a more reliable, universal "strap-to-tiller" design. This allows us to provide the same high-performance electronics and multi-relay capabilities for lights and horns, while ensuring the system remains simple to install and compatible with any boat on the water.

Why the V3 is the Right Choice for Your Boat:

• Zero-Modification Install: Unlike the original bespoke versions that required specific handles or complex woodwork, the V3 uses a high-tension rubber backstrap. It secures to your existing tiller in seconds, meaning no drilling, no sanding, and no permanent changes to your boat.

• Total Versatility: Whether you have a traditional wooden handle, a modern brass extension, or a custom-shaped tiller, the V3 adapts to fit. It’s designed to be moved from boat to boat or handle to handle with ease.

• Precision Engineering: Built with the same high-speed 433MHz technology Benjamin Donnaghue developed for our professional kits, the V3 delivers a near-instant 30ms response time. It provides the heavy-duty reliability you need when navigating tight bends or busy marinas.

• Future-Proof Control: The V3 is designed to grow with you. It pairs seamlessly with our 4-Relay Command Hub, giving you the power to control your horn and lighting today, with the option to expand to other auxiliary circuits tomorrow.

The V3 isn't just a gadget; it’s a professional-grade tool that puts the control back where it belongs—in your hand.