With so many electronic products all vying for our attention, especially in the area of GPS and chartplotters, understanding the market and navigating your way to making the right choice can prove quite bewildering. But fear not, as PBR’s Jeremy Webb takes the helm to give you a steer …
Within this article, which will have particular relevance for those wishing to retrofit or embark on upgrade projects, we’re going to divide the GPS and chartplotter market up into three categories: entry level, mid-price and what we might describe as ‘top tier’. But let me make it clear: the process isn’t exhaustive and hasn’t included a test and analysis of each product. Rather, the purpose of this article is to provide something of a ‘showcase’ in order to help you isolate those products that, potentially, might be best suited to your needs and your pocket.
Technological advancements mean systems are constantly improving, ever on the move, and certainly the introduction of apps, both purpose-made and compatible, is affording an incredible ability to upgrade and expand plotter and sonar systems like never before. Then again, what you and I may require in terms of functions, etc. will likely be quite different. However, modern technology does result in astonishing flexibility and customisation opportunities.
But before we kick off with our product highlights, let’s just review a few essential points associated with these products, known typically in the trade as ‘multifunctional devices’, or MFDs.
Echomap UHD2 Touch 7xsv
Mounting method
In most cases, you can choose to have a flush- or non-flush-mounted system. The non-flush units have several types of gimbals or brackets that can be attached to a bulkhead or console, with the benefit, in some cases, of suction cup mounts to enable one to detach the unit and remove it for safekeeping. Of course, you can choose a permanent bracket mount if you prefer. Most units, of course, are flush-mounted direct into the console of the vessel. But positioning is critical, as your line of sight ahead, as well as the positioning of the plotter screen in relation to the engine gauges and even the VHF, are aspects that can either add to, or detract from, the helm’s ergonomics.
Connectivity
Before deciding which system/MFD to purchase, check whether it will be compatible with any existing equipment on your vessel, and ideally your smartphone too. This is because, in order to achieve its full potential and to derive the maximum benefit, you’ll want the unit to integrate with, perhaps, an autopilot, your VHF radio, the boat’s engine data relays and other performance- or safety-orientated electronic aids.
Helix 10 Humminbird
Screen size
Aside from budget, the overriding matter of how big your boat is and the available console space it offers will no doubt determine what size screen you can realistically accommodate. The overall screen size and its related display area usually means that the larger the screen, the more detailed the imagery you can hope to display – especially in the world of split-screen technology, where a screen can be used to display different navigational functions and engine data, or even to display radar imagery, etc. Then the big screen, of course, is king. But aesthetics can’t be ignored either, so don’t rush the process – take the time needed to make the right decision by choosing a unit that, as far as is practical, complements the rest of the vessel’s fit-out.
Advanced features
To ensure your heart doesn’t overrule your head, perhaps ask yourself: ‘What do I realistically require from such a system?’ Many GPS chartplotters now have advanced features such as fish finding, radar, a barometric altimeter and AIS (Automatic Identification System). Do you need all these features when a simpler, less expensive model might do just as well? Only you will know. But when thinking your options through, don’t only consider what you need, but also what functions and features you may like to have at your fingertips over the course of the next couple of seasons. MFDs can pretty much cater for your every want, save perhaps making you a brew – though even this won’t be beyond their grasp, given time, I’m sure! ‘One lump or two?’ But one important feature that more and more units are offering is that of downloadable upgrades. Just like so many electronic devices these days, this technology has the means to effectively lengthen the life and relevance of your purchase by keeping up to pace with new developments and ever-advancing features.
Axiom 2 Pro RVM
User interface
One element of an MFD’s make-up is the manner in which it interfaces. Simply put, you want an intuitive system, one you personally find logical and relatively easy to understand and follow, so play with different brand offerings and make your comparisons as to which ‘language’ you prefer ‘speaking’. Unless pouring over manuals is your thing and doesn’t faze you, you will likely prefer an interface that works in a process of coherent ‘steps or commands, making it easier to use the system without having to wrestle with overly complex commands and protracted menus’. Remember, too, that you will be using this technology in what is essentially a ‘hostile environment’. So, ease of use, quick referencing and, above all, functionality are paramount. Related to this subject is the question of which charting system is your preference and which cartography your MFD has been designed to run off. Again, explore the market, play with the options, then decide which suits you best.
Information accuracy
It goes without saying that you want, indeed need, a GPS chartplotter capable of the highest level of accuracy. After all, its prime function is to get you from A to B in the most effective and safest way possible. But that said, in our experience, all the systems on the market are pretty compatible in this respect. After all, they all feed off the same satellite network, which governments and defence departments ultimately hold in their possession and can and will withdraw at a moment’s notice if they deem fit. We, who constitute the leisure community, have the benefit of GPS only to the extent that we are ‘allowed’ to use the network. That’s worth remembering – especially if you’re considering doing away with paper charts or the need for a manual passage plan altogether (which you shouldn’t!).
But now, onto the matter of the products on offer. Our selection is pretty extensive, but it would be foolhardy to claim it is ‘definitive’. The information highlighted here is selective, so just as we haven’t covered every product on the market, there are some functions and features that you’ll discover from your own research. The market is ever changing and developing, unceasing in its rollout of all things new and latest. But here at least, we hope to provide a helpful platform for your further investigations and initial research. By going on to make your own investigations via the manufacturer’s website and then tracking down an actual unit to test and play with, you should arrive at the right choice. Here, then, are the pertinent details according to the selection made. But like most electronic items, prices can and will vary in some instances from supplier to supplier, so shop around. Good hunting!
Prices & categories
Prices in all three categories vary considerably, but get the best for your budget. The push for cramming features into these systems has decreased the production of lower-budget models as MDFs get into the thousands of pounds quickly.
Many brands identify systems of, say, 2K in price as being their ‘entry-level’ models, so you’ll likely discover that the mid-range market is a hotbed of units.
We categorised the units in terms of their pricing range and according to what the brand labels them as. All prices shown in this article are VAT inclusive.
Entry-level – Product selection
01. Humminbird Helix 5 CHIRP DI GPS G3 fish finder
The US manufacturer Humminbird produce a variety of marine electronic products within most price categories. The Humminbird Helix 5 CHIRP DI GPS G3 fish finder has features including MEGA Down Imaging, AutoChart Live, Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar, Internal GPS and Humminbird Basemap built in. A bonus for anglers is the high-definition 5” display that helps the operator clearly see what’s happening beneath the surface of the water. Compatible with all Humminbird Lakemaster map chips, the Humminbird Helix 5 has the fisherman’s interests very much at heart but is equally suitable for general use.
- Helix 5 CHIRP GPS G3
- Online £408.95 [cactusnav.com]
- RRP £446.65 [marathonleisure.co.uk]
www.humminbird.johnsonoutdoors.com
02. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 2
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 2
Garmin’s ECHOMAP UHD 2 range, again, also tailored more towards the fishing market, but with it you also get chartplotter capabilities – and at a competitive price too. Indeed, the 7” ECHOMAP UHD2 chartplotter benefits from having very precise, clear mapping and sonar delivery.
The bright 5” keyed display is easy to see and operate, and you can get double the views with the Garmin CHIRP traditional and ClearVü scanning sonars (transducer sold separately). Crystal-clear imagery of the sea floor is afforded along with high-contrast, vivid colour palettes. Wi-Fi can connect the ECHOMAP to compatible chartplotters, and the system comes with preloaded charts that employ Garmin Navionics+ charts or optional Garmin Navionics Vision+.
- Garmin Echomap UHD2 55CV 5” – Online £389.95 RRP £449.99 [force4.co.uk]
- Garmin Echomap UHD2 75CV 5” – Online £499.95 RRP £599.99 [force4.co.uk]
03. Simrad GO9 XSE
Simrad GO9 XSE
Simrad, a company owned by the Brunswick Corporation, offer the G09 XSE, which features a 9” display screen. The system provides GPS navigation, sonar support, radar capability and more. The GO9 is ideally suited to sport boats, RIBs, centre consoles and smaller cruisers. Users get intuitive touch screen control over optional accessories that include autopilot and sound system command and control. The GO9 can also be linked to your smartphone with wireless mirroring, allowing you to see the unit’s display wherever you are on board. Customisation of the home screen allows split-screen viewing too.
Every GO series display is a full-featured chartplotter with a built-in GPS receiver. GO displays offer compatibility with a wide range of optional charts from C-MAP, Navionics and more.
- Simrad GO9 XSE – Online £789.95 – RRP £899.99 [force4.co.uk]
04. Raymarine Element HV CHIRP sonar / GPS series
Raymarine Element HV CHIRP sonar / GPS series
There are two Element series from leading British company Raymarine. The Element S are a range of chartplotters with single channel sonar in 7, 9, and 12 inch displays, whereas the Element HV range provides HyperVision 1.2MHz sonar technology designed to provide ultra-sharp underwater viewing and a high-definition plotter screen display, again available in 7, 9 and 12 inch displays. It’s rugged, well suited to offshore punishment and has exceptional daylight screen visibility even when the latter is water splashed. RealVision 3D built-in technology identifies the location of ledges, channel beds and contour changes. You get a fast quad-core processor too, giving instantaneous chart redraw and sharp 3D imaging.
Raymarine have installed intuitive controls with an oversized waypoint key for marking favourite locations, plus three user-programmable keys. These are excellent additions to have in the live environment. As for cartography, the unit is enabled by Amart Mapping supported by Raymarine LightHouse charts with Fishing Hot Spots, Navionics and C-MAP charts. If you want to customise your navigation methods and displays, the Element’s technology will allow you to create maps supported by Raymarine RealBathy. This allows the user to access the benefits of Navionics’ SonarCharts Live support.
- Raymarine Element HV with HV-100 Transducer
- 7” RRP 645.00 Online £564.95
- 9” RRP £845.00 Online £739.95
- 12” RRP £1345.00 Online £1179.95 [force4.co.uk]
Mid-range – Model selection
The mid-range sector offers an abundance of choice, though it has to be said that there are considerable price differences. Specifications and functions in this sector remain pretty similar, but perhaps fewer of these products are suited to easy retrofitting.
01. Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 12” chartplotter
Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 12” chartplotter
Garmin’s mid-range touch screen chartplotter is the ECHOMAP Ultra 2, a 12” crisp display that remains readable in strong sunlight. A versatile chartplotter supported by Garmin Navionics+ and Garmin Navionics Vision+ mapping, a transducer bundle can be added to provide ultra-high-definition scanning sonars and CHIRP traditional sonar. (The ECHOMAP Ultra 2 series supports the full line-up of LiveScope live-scanning sonar products, with transducers sold separately. However, specific models within the Ultra range are packaged with a GT56 transducer, which provides Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar and ultra-high-definition ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonars for photo-like underwater images.)
If you have another compatible ECHOMAP Ultra 2 or ECHOMAP UHD2 chartplotter on your boat, you can wirelessly share information, such as Sonar3, waypoints and routes, etc. The ActiveCaptain app is a free all-in-one app that creates a powerful connection between your compatible mobile device and chartplotter, charts, maps and the community. This can be used to activate your Garmin Navionics+ or Garmin Navionics Vision+ subscription, and to download daily updates and premium content. Heightened position accuracy is achieved with multi-band GPS, which also means you can connect your Ultra 2 to heading sensors, autopilots, Fusion-Link audio systems and more. The unit has a quick-disconnect bail mount that lets you quickly install and remove it. The latter is certainly a plus from a security point of view.
- Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 with GT56UHD-TM Transducer – RRP £3079.99 Online £2699.95 [force4.co.uk]
02. Simrad NSX 3012 multifunction chartplotter & sonar
Simrad NSX 3012 multifunction chartplotter & sonar
This 12” unit from Simrad, the NSX 3012, is at the upper end of the mid-priced systems on the market, but it comes packed with multifunction capability. Featuring powerful navigation abilities empowered by C-MAP support, everything is portrayed in spectacular detail on the NSX 3012’s IPS touch screen.
The NSX employs C-MAP DISCOVER X charts. These charts have been engineered to bring a superior level of detail at all zoom levels. The chart system’s 1’ contour lines and enhanced day and night modes offer a commendable quality of screen visibility. Plus, rapid loading times and zero distortion when using the zoom function mean there’s no lapse in either accuracy or performance underway. The NSX has integrated sonar, radar and autopilot support, and by using the Setup Wizard tool, the process of setting up the system becomes a very simple one indeed.
The NSX aims to provide a clean, straightforward interface with high-definition visuals. The accessing and use of the NSX’s features are simple and fast, including its enhanced day and night modes, editable instruments bar and smart drag-and-drop screen customisation. Crystal-clear chart details, as well as structural and seabed contours, are all presented in high definition via a SolarMAX IPS touch screen. Plus, the HD display can be viewed at any angle, through polarised lenses, as well as in direct sunlight.
Auto-routing is a very useful function afforded by C-MAP’s cartography technology and includes the means to route plot/plan in conjunction with tide and current projections. A one-touch ‘Map Inspection’ feature allows access to information on points of interest, tides, locations, channels and more. The Simrad Companion app extends the NSX system even further, by providing the user with chart experiences and data on and off the vessel. This app lets you plan trips, review tracks, plot waypoints and sync directly with the NSX. The NSX likewise allows for augmenting with Simrad sonar, autopilot and radar technologies too. High-resolution images below and to the sides of your vessel are achievable with Active Imaging using CHIRP sonar, SideScan/DownScan Imaging and FishReveal.
The Simrad app also offers a host of added extras, including hassle-free software updates, on- and off-the-water trip planning, a streamlined chart display that looks the same across all platforms and effortless transfer of all data, including all routes and waypoints.
- Simrad NSX 3012 plotter and sonar system – RRP £3079.99 Online £2369.95 [force4.co.uk]
03. Raymarine Axiom+9
Raymarine Axiom+9
The Axiom+9 is part of the new generation of Axiom chartplotters upgraded with all-weather higher-resolution displays. These, state Raymarine, have been rated as being 25% brighter than their previous equivalents. The displays have a powerful quad-core processor for industry-leading speed and response, and they allow the user to redraw charts if so wished, expand upon Axiom+ with solid-state radar and FLIR thermal cameras, and add a marine camera and navigate with ClearCruise Augmented Reality. Impressive! This manufacturer’s renowned LightHouse multi-display operating system is installed on the Axiom+9, so ease of navigation and the ability to expand your system represent two more benefits.
Raymarine have employed HydroTough technology in the Axiom series – a nano-coated, impact-resistant screen that dispels water, oil and smudges. Even when wet, the all-weather HydroTough technology delivers improved colour, contrast and accurate touch controls. AIS can be added, as can ClearCruise Augmented Reality. The latter then allows those aboard to visualise AIS targets, navigation aids and waypoints in high-definition video. Optional Quantum and Cyclone radars and Doppler target tracking are all offerings made by this manufacturer too.
- Axiom+9 RRP £1445.00 Online £1249.95 [force4.co.uk]
04. Humminbird Helix 10 CHIRP Mega SI+ GPS G4N
Humminbird Helix 10 CHIRP Mega SI+ GPS G4N
The Humminbird Helix 10 Mega SI+ GPS G4N is a veritable powerhouse of marine technology and has been designed particularly for those with a love of fishing. Offering a 10.1” display, this product is also equipped with MEGA Side Imaging+ and MEGA Down Imaging+. This advanced ability grants the user an exceptionally clear view of the world beneath their hull. The Helix 10 Mega SI+ GPS G4N has a dual-spectrum CHIRP sonar and an internal GPS that features Humminbird Basemap technology and in turn comes with a number of attractive standard features, including AutoChart Live and NMEA 2000, Bluetooth and Ethernet networking for seamless integration with the One-Boat Network family of products.
As we said, for anyone whose first passion is fishing but who also desires a high-quality GPS plotter, this unit will likely be a strong contender. As is the case with all Humminbird products, the Helix 10 CHIRP Mega SI+ GPS G4N hails from a long line of products aimed fairly and squarely at this ever-popular sector of the market and, as a result of this heritage, scores well in the areas of reliability and functionality.
- Humminbird Helix 10 CHIRP Mega SI+ GPS G4N – RRP 1804.46 Online £1699.95 [force4.co.uk]
www.humminbird.johnsonoutdoors.com/us
£££ Top-tier – Model selection
The world of maritime technology once endeavoured to play ‘catch-up’ with the rest of the electronics world. It took a good many years for this race to be won, but now, marine electronics stand shoulder to shoulder with their non-marine peers and come armed with a near limitless array of technical benefits and add-ons. Such advancements have largely been driven by marine electronics manufacturers seeking compatibility with the wider world and working hard to develop systems that ‘speak’ today’s familiar operating language and live up to the high expectations of a new generation of customers who are looking for an array of high-powered functions. Little wonder, then, that MFDs within the top tier of products continue to advance so rapidly, with applications to suit every vessel and environment imaginable – a case of ‘the sky’s the limit’, quite literally!
01. Raymarine Axiom 2 Pro
Raymarine Axiom 2 Pro
Raymarine’s Axiom 2 Pro combines chartplotter, sonar, radar, autopilot and video into a powerful all-in-one navigation system. Using the Axiom 2 Pro, the operator can navigate increasingly smartly and continue to expand their world, thanks to the super-intuitive attributes of its LightHouse operating system. The latter allows a voyage to be undertaken with increased confidence thanks to the application of Raymarine’s HybridTouch combined touch screen and keypad technology. Axiom 2 Pro S chartplotters feature built-in single-channel High CHIRP sonar, designed to provide detailed, high-definition depth sounding visualisation and underwater exploration capability.
LightHouse charts are created from official hydrographic chart sources, auto-update and enable the user to ‘customise’ their methods and preferences. Likewise, the Raymarine Axiom 2 Pro six-core processor allows the navigator to ‘build’ their own system. For example, connecting to a camera (CAM300) and AR200 sensor will give Augmented Reality AR, which detects waypoints, AIS and chart objects in high-definition video. Further connections can be made to a vessel’s NMEA 2000-compatible engines, which then affords advanced integration with Mercury SmartCraft and Yamaha Command Link. The Raymarine mobile app with its YachtSense Link router also enables you to monitor the craft’s on-board systems from your phone or tablet. The Axiom 2 Pro’s HDMI and audio output allows for remote displays as well as the streaming of apps and marine entertainment systems.
The application of HydroTough nano-coating to this unit helps to repel water for reliable touch screen control and superior sunlight visibility.
- Raymarine Axiom 2 Pro S – RRP £2695.00 Online £2349.95 [force4.co.uk]
02. Garmin GPSMAP X3 series
Garmin GPSMAP X3 series
Garmin recently launched the 16” GPSMAP 1623, which provides what Garmin class as an even sharper view for the helmsman to navigate by. The GPSMAP product range comes with powerful processing, and in terms of screen size, you have the flexibility and choice of either a 7”, 9”, 12” or 16” specification to choose from. Of course, all these model options will integrate with any other Garmin marine device or system you have on your vessel. Building your own bespoke marine system is possible thanks to Garmin’s advanced network connectivity, and in terms of cartography, this is provided courtesy of Garmin Navionics+ and premium Garmin Navionics Vision+ cartography.
The Garmin GPSMAP 1623 is slimline in its construction and, importantly, features edge-to-edge glass, making it easier to fit this chartplotter into a broader range of dash configurations. The clear, bright optics are due to its high-resolution IPS displays, which provide improved sunlight visibility and readability from all angles. You can also purchase Garmin Navionics+ or premium Garmin Navionics Vision+ cartography that benefits from integrated coastal/inland content, access to daily updates and Auto Guidance+. Easy integration enables connection to a Garmin GMR 18 HD+ dome radar – an almost indispensable item to have in the case of poor visibility. Garmin sell a product ‘bundle’ that includes a radar, sonar and GPSMAP chartplotter.
The GPSMAP chartplotter is compatible with a variety of engines and, as a result, full engine monitoring data can be relayed directly to your navigation screen. In addition, Garmin’s ‘OneHelm’ feature combines select third-party devices such as EmpirBus digital switching and enables such to be displayed on the MFD too.
- GPSMAP 723 – 7” – RRP £789.99
- GPSMAP 923 – 9” – RRP £1039.99
- GPSMAP 1223 – 12” – RRP £1629.99
- GPSMAP 1623 – 16” – RRP £4739.99
03. Simrad NSX 3015UW with Active Imaging 3-in-1
Simrad NSX 3015UW with Active Imaging 3-in-1
Simrad say they have brought ultrawide technology into the chartplotter market with their NSX ULTRAWIDE and describe it as a ‘first of its kind’. The system has all the benefits of dual screens in a single display for an immersive experience and allows apps to be viewed as they were intended to be seen. C-MAP’s X-Gen charts offer super-rich detail too at every level of the navigation process.
One of the benefits of Simrad’s NSX ULTRAWIDE technology is its functionality. This is aided by an intuitive activities bar to allow the user to pin their favourite apps and switch between them with a single touch. The instrument panel can likewise be customised to allow the navigator to have just the essential data displayed if so required. Additionally, Simrad have simplified their interface, which means spending less time navigating menus and more time navigating waters! The latter is made quicker as well thanks to the fastest auto-routing capability Simrad have yet devised.
The NSX technology also makes connectivity a breeze, with the result that more information can be fed to the helm than ever, giving superior control over the full suite of on-board technology. Engine control is at the heart of this product, and being part of the Brunswick empire, it’s not surprising that Mercury compatibility is ultimate. But additionally, the system also integrates with other well-known propulsion brands such as Honda and Suzuki. The control of one’s vessel extends across the entire craft, with support for CZone digital switching, RGBW lighting, IP cameras, audio and an intuitive Setup Wizard to help the operator connect trouble-free.
- Simrad NSX 3015UW – 12” – RRP £3319.99
- Simrad NSX 3015UW – 15” – RRP £3949.99
04. The Humminbird Apex 13 Mega SI+ chartplotter
The Humminbird Apex 13 Mega SI+ chartplotter
includes industry-leading MEGA Imaging+ and Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar, giving you the clearest picture of what is happening beneath the surface. An ultra-clear 13.3” full-HD touch screen provides a customised display of information from advanced network options like NMEA 2000, HDMI In/Out, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Designed for both Humminbird’s Lakemaster and Coastmaster cartography, along with the power of the One-Boat network, the Apex 13 Mega SI+ chartplotter is highly suited to the fishing sector. With a full-HD display with Cross Touch interface, the Apex delivers super-quality detail by means of its 1920H x 1080V display. An intuitive user interface and sidebar menu allow customisable settings and view combinations, while a dual-core processor aids processing speed and ultra-responsive interfacing.
The Apex’s sonar comes equipped with MEGA Side Imaging+, MEGA Down Imaging+ and Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar to keep the user directly on the fish. MEGA Imaging+ provides views up to 250’ deep as well as out to either side of the boat. Its Dual Spectrum CHIRP displays in 2D sonar and features superior target separation and fish clarity. Its Basemap technology also grants an exceptionally clear view of the underwater terrain, which is great when identifying wrecks as well as underwater hazards.
Dual-channel CHIRP sonar ports offer connection with any Humminbird sonar options, as well as a dedicated port for 2D CHIRP transducers up to 2kW. Likewise, integrated transducer ID provides fast and simple installation of Airmar transducers.
Humminbird say they provide the most complete offering of premium chart options to anglers anywhere, and besides their own chart products, the technology is compatible with all Navionics electronic charts.
- Humminbird Apex 13 Mega SI+ chartplotter – RRP / Online £3939.95 – 13”
https://humminbird.johnsonoutdoors.com/us
05. Simrad NSOevo3S
Simrad NSOevo3S
The Simrad NSOevo3S benefits from an iMX 8 high-performance processor, designed to ensure a rapid response to each command given. A full-HD display gives stunning clarity, while other benefits relate to its connectivity and interfacing between the GPS, keypad controller and key add-ons and accessories. All displays, of course, are fully customisable according to the requirements of the helmsman or navigator.
The iMX 8 integrated six-core processor also delivers ultra-smooth screen transitions, and its superior CPU performance gives instant access to information in all conditions. The unit’s low-profile glass helm styling protects and conceals the NSOevo3’s powerful core and has been engineered to complement any helm design from ultra-modern to period classic.
Simrad’s NSOevo3S provides the user with an ultra-bright display in 16”, 19” or 24” widescreen sizes. Wide viewing angles keep the screen in view from anywhere in sight, even if you’re wearing polarised sunglasses. Users get stunning clarity with full-HD resolution and the option to combine up to six panels in a split-screen layout. Waypoints and other key chart information can intuitively be defined, and the control of connected systems such as autopilot, radar and sonar can be done at a touch.
Connecting to a mobile device via the NSOevo3S’s built-in wireless connectivity option means online software upgrades can be made via any wireless Internet hotspot. Wired Ethernet, NMEA 2000 and J1939 networking provide almost limitless integration options, from vessel-wide display systems to radar, sonar and integration with an extensive range of third-party technologies.
- Simrad NSOevo3S 16” – RRP £6649.99 (display only)
- Simrad NSOevo3S 19” – RRP £7214.99 (display only)
- Simrad NSOevo3S 24” – RRP £10,072.99 (display only)
In conclusion
Whatever product or system you choose, remember: its aim should be to complement your seamanship, as well as to enhance your on-water skills and practical abilities. Technology adds another tier of reward, and if used responsibly, it will undoubtedly enhance your safety afloat. By interfacing with your engine and other key systems, these electronic products can play a valuable role in helping your boat run to its optimum in a whole variety of sea states. We can be sure, though, that technology won’t stop here. AI and autonomous capability are already knocking at the door. What this will mean for the likes of you and me, only time will tell. Maybe, with the introduction of the latter, we might not need to go to sea at all. We can just sit on the shoreline and watch our boat having a nice time without us. That would certainly save on the cost of life jackets, I suppose …
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