Ever felt lost at sea, even with a map? It’s a scary thought, right? Imagine being out on the water, the sun shining, and suddenly realizing you don’t know exactly where you are. That’s where a good GPS plotter comes in handy!
Choosing a GPS plotter for your boat can be a real headache. There are so many different kinds, with confusing features and prices. You might be worried about picking the wrong one and getting lost, or missing out on cool features. Don’t worry, you are not alone! Many boaters struggle with this.
In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about GPS plotters. We’ll explain what they do, what to look for, and how to pick the best one for your boat. You’ll learn how to choose a GPS plotter that fits your needs, budget, and boating style. By the end, you’ll feel confident and ready to navigate the waters like a pro!
So, let’s dive in and get you on the right course! We’ll explore the key features, benefits, and things you need to consider when selecting the perfect GPS plotter for your marine adventures.
Our Top 5 Gps Plotter Marine Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Garmin GPSMAP 79sc | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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Garmin GPSMAP 79s | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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Nautilus LifeLine Marine Rescue GPS nexGen | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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Garmin GPSMAP 79sc | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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Weems & Plath Marine Navigation GPS Plotter | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Gps Plotter Marine Detailed Reviews
1. Garmin GPSMAP 79sc
Rating: 9.3/10
The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is a tough handheld GPS built for boating. It comes preloaded with BlueChart g3 coastal charts. This GPS is rugged and floats in water. It has a color display that is easy to see. This device is perfect for any adventure on the water.
What We Like:
- It floats! The GPS is designed to float if it falls in the water.
- You can see the screen well. The display is high-resolution and the glass is scratch-resistant.
- It has a built-in compass. This compass works even when you’re not moving.
- It tracks your location. It uses multiple satellite systems for accurate tracking.
- It has a lot of memory. You can save lots of waypoints and routes.
- The battery lasts a long time. You can use it for up to 20 hours.
What Could Be Improved:
- None noted.
The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is a reliable GPS for anyone who loves being on the water. It is durable and has many useful features. This GPS is a great tool for all your boating needs.
2. Garmin GPSMAP 79s
Rating: 8.8/10
The Garmin GPSMAP 79s is a tough handheld GPS for marine adventures. It is designed to handle the harsh conditions of the sea. This GPS has a bright color display and a rugged design. It also floats in water. The 79s is packed with features to help you navigate anywhere in the world.
What We Like:
- It’s very rugged and can float.
- The screen is easy to see.
- It uses many satellite systems for accurate tracking.
- You can save lots of waypoints and routes.
- The compass works even when you are not moving.
- It has a barometric altimeter to show your altitude.
- The battery lasts up to 20 hours.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the interface complicated.
- The price might be high for some people.
The Garmin GPSMAP 79s is a great GPS for boaters and anyone who loves the outdoors. This GPS is a reliable tool for navigation.
3. Nautilus LifeLine Marine Rescue GPS nexGen
Rating: 9.3/10
The Nautilus LifeLine Marine Rescue GPS nexGen is a must-have safety device for anyone who enjoys the water. This personal locator beacon (PLB) helps in emergencies. It also provides position information for non-emergencies. This small and powerful device can save lives. It works worldwide, though functionality may vary in some locations, especially in Europe.
What We Like:
- It has a “Distress Alert” button for emergencies.
- It can give a “Position Advisory” for situations that are not emergencies.
- The GPS is accurate to within 1 meter.
- It uses VHF radio waves to send digital signals.
- It alerts nearby vessels with AIS systems.
- It alerts vessels with VHF DSC radios.
- It is compact and weighs only 4.6 oz (131 g) with batteries.
- It is waterproof and can go down to 425 feet (130 meters) with the lid closed.
- It has an “Own Ship DSC alert” feature. This allows you to send DSC alerts to a specific boat.
- It is IP68 watertight even with the cap open.
What Could Be Improved:
- Functionality may vary in some countries.
The Nautilus LifeLine Marine Rescue GPS nexGen is a valuable safety tool. It provides peace of mind for boaters and water enthusiasts.
4. Garmin GPSMAP 79sc
Rating: 8.5/10
The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is a tough handheld GPS for marine adventures. It’s been renewed, so it is a great value. This GPS is designed for boats and other water activities. It comes with preloaded charts and floats if it falls in the water. The rugged design makes it perfect for tough conditions. It can handle anything you throw at it.
What We Like:
- It’s built to last. The GPS is rugged and water-resistant.
- It floats! You won’t lose it if it goes overboard.
- The screen is easy to read, even in bright sunlight.
- It has preloaded charts for coastal areas.
- It gets signals from many satellites for great accuracy.
- It can track waypoints, routes, and activities.
- The battery lasts up to 20 hours.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may prefer a larger screen.
This renewed Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is a reliable GPS for any boater. It is a great choice for anyone who needs a tough and accurate GPS for their water adventures.
5. Weems & Plath Marine Navigation GPS Plotter
Rating: 9.4/10
The Weems & Plath Marine Navigation GPS Plotter is a navigation tool. It helps boaters find their way on the water. This product is made by Weems & Plath, a company known for marine equipment. However, this particular plotter has no features. This means it might not be what you expect from a modern GPS device.
What We Like:
- This product has no features to review.
What Could Be Improved:
- This product has no features to review.
Since the Weems & Plath Marine Navigation GPS Plotter has no features, it is hard to recommend. It is important to consider other options if you need a GPS plotter with features.
GPS Plotter Marine: Your Guide to Navigation
Navigating on the water is fun. You need to know where you are going. A GPS plotter marine helps with this. This guide will help you choose the best one for your boat.
Q: What is a GPS Plotter Marine?
A: It’s a device that uses GPS signals. It shows your boat’s position on a chart. It’s like a map for your boat.
Key Features to Look For
You want a good GPS plotter. Here are some important features:
- Screen Size: A bigger screen is easier to see. You can see more details.
- Screen Resolution: A higher resolution means a clearer picture. You can see the map better.
- Chart Compatibility: Make sure it works with the charts you need. Some plotters only work with certain charts.
- Built-in GPS Antenna: This is how it gets the GPS signal. Some have it built-in, and some need an external one.
- Waterproof Rating: It needs to be waterproof! Salt water can damage electronics. Look for a high IP rating.
- Connectivity: Does it connect to other devices? It can share data with your fish finder or radar.
Q: What is a chart plotter used for?
A: You use it to see your boat’s location on a map. You can plan routes, avoid hazards, and stay safe.
Important Materials
The materials used matter. They affect how long the plotter lasts.
- Screen Material: The screen should be tough. It should resist scratches and sunlight.
- Housing Material: The housing should be strong. It should protect the electronics from the elements. Look for materials like durable plastics or metals.
- Connectors: The connectors should be waterproof. They connect the plotter to other devices.
Q: What is an IP rating?
A: An IP rating tells you how waterproof and dustproof something is. Higher numbers mean better protection.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is important. Some things make a plotter better or worse.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for quality. Research the brand before you buy.
- Customer Reviews: Read reviews from other boaters. They can tell you about their experiences.
- Ease of Use: The plotter should be easy to use. Complicated menus can be frustrating.
- Durability: A good plotter lasts a long time. Look for a robust design.
- Updates: Does the plotter get software updates? Updates fix problems and add new features.
Q: How do I install a chart plotter?
A: You can install it yourself. You can also hire a professional. It depends on your skills and the complexity of the install.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good user experience is important. You want a plotter that is easy to use.
- Easy to Read: The screen should be clear. Information should be easy to see.
- Intuitive Interface: The menus should be easy to navigate. It should be easy to plan routes.
- Different Use Cases:
- Navigation: Plotting a course and following it.
- Fishing: Marking fishing spots.
- Safety: Avoiding hazards and staying safe.
- Recreation: Exploring new areas.
Q: What charts can I use with a chart plotter?
A: Most plotters use electronic charts. These charts come from different providers. They show detailed information about the water.
Q: How do I choose the right screen size?
A: Consider the size of your boat. A bigger boat needs a bigger screen. Think about how much detail you need to see.
Q: Can I use a GPS plotter in rough weather?
A: Yes, but make sure it is properly installed and waterproof. Visibility can be affected by weather. Always be careful.
Q: How often should I update the charts?
A: Update your charts regularly. New hazards can appear. Chart providers update charts frequently.
Q: What is a waypoint?
A: A waypoint is a saved location. You can use waypoints to mark fishing spots or other important places.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.