What Is a Headless Water App? How Gillby Works Beyond Its Own Screen
Your water day might start on a map. It might start with a question to an AI assistant. Gillby works both ways.
THE SHORT ANSWER
A headless water app keeps the data and the screen separate. Gillby has its own map, and the same wind, wave, tide and place data is available as tools any compatible AI assistant can call over MCP. You can plan on the map or in a chat and get the same answer.
AT A GLANCE
- Same Gillby data, on the map or in your AI app.
- Connects through MCP, an open standard.
- Public water tools need no login or key.
- Your saved boat and trips stay private.
What does headless mean?
In a headless app, the service and the screen are separate. Gillby has its own map, and the same water data is also available as tools any compatible AI assistant can call.
The assistant runs the conversation. Gillby supplies the wind, waves, tides, places and the source behind each one.
Why did I build it this way?
Sometimes I want the map. Sometimes I am already talking a trip through with an assistant and just want the answer there. I did not want to pick one.
Gillby runs a public MCP endpoint. MCP is the open standard that lets AI apps connect to outside tools. Connect it once and your assistant can ask Gillby directly. Here is how to set it up.
What changes on the water?
A boater names an inlet and a departure time. A surfer asks about a beach. An angler starts with a place and an activity. Follow-up questions stay in the same conversation.
Source times and gaps come back with every answer, so you know what is a forecast, what is an observation and what is missing.
What stays private?
Public water tools need no login or key. Your saved boat, places and trips are separate and only connect after you sign in and agree.
Quick answers
Do I need an AI assistant to use Gillby?
No. The website and map work on their own. An assistant is just another way in.
Does headless mean Gillby is open source?
No. A tool connection gives access to Gillby features, not its code or forecast models.
Does Gillby work with every AI app?
It works with apps that support custom MCP connections. Setup varies by app and plan.
Connect once. Ask a real question.
Pick your assistant for the server URL and setup steps.
Connect your AISomething missing for your water? Tell me.