Introduction
Welcome to Boaty. We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal data. This privacy policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information when you use our app.
Information We Collect
We collect information that you provide directly to us:
- Account Information: Email address, username, and password when you register
- Boat Information: Boat name, dimensions, and other details you choose to add
- Location Data: Your boat's location when you choose to save or share it
- Trip Data: Journey logs, stops, and route history
- User Content: Posts, comments, and messages you create in the community
How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to:
- Provide and maintain the Boaty service
- Enable location sharing with friends you approve
- Display nearby landmarks, services, and points of interest
- Track your journeys and cruising statistics
- Facilitate community features and social interactions
- Send important service updates and notifications
- Improve and develop new features
Location Data
Your location is only shared when you explicitly choose to share it. We do not continuously track your location in the background. You have full control over when and with whom your boat location is shared.
Location data is used to:
- Show your boat position on the map (only visible to you and approved friends)
- Calculate routes and distances for trip planning
- Find nearby facilities, services, and points of interest
- Log your journey history when you choose to record trips
Data Sharing
We do not sell your personal data. We may share your information in the following circumstances:
- With Friends: Your boat location is shared with users you've accepted as friends
- Community Content: Posts and comments are visible to other community members
- Service Providers: We use third-party services for hosting and analytics
- Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights
Data Security
We implement appropriate security measures to protect your personal information. Your password is encrypted and we use secure connections (HTTPS) for all data transmission.
Your Rights
You have the right to:
- Access your personal data
- Correct inaccurate data
- Delete your account and associated data
- Control who can see your location
- Opt out of non-essential communications
Data Retention
We retain your data for as long as your account is active. If you delete your account, we will delete your personal data within 30 days, except where we need to retain it for legal purposes.
Children's Privacy
Boaty is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this privacy policy from time to time. We will notify you of any significant changes through the app or via email.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about this privacy policy or our data practices, please contact us at privacy@boaty.app