Best Marine GPS Systems for Offshore Sailing
Best Marine GPS Systems for Offshore Sailing
Understanding Marine GPS Systems for Offshore Sailing
Navigating the vast expanse of the open sea requires precision, reliability, and advanced technology. Marine GPS systems for offshore sailing are essential tools for sailors, providing crucial information on location, navigation routes, and potential hazards. These systems utilize satellite signals to deliver accurate positioning, helping sailors make informed decisions and ensuring safe passage through unpredictable waters.
Why Marine GPS Systems Are Important
Marine GPS systems are vital for several reasons:
- Accurate Navigation: They provide precise location data, ensuring that sailors can navigate safely even when out of sight of land.
- Route Planning: These systems help in plotting courses, setting waypoints, and following predetermined routes, which is crucial for long-distance sailing.
- Safety: With features like collision avoidance, depth soundings, and weather updates, marine GPS systems enhance the safety of the vessel and its crew.
- Efficiency: By providing real-time data, these systems help sailors optimize their routes, saving time and fuel.
Key Features to Look for in a Marine GPS System
When choosing a marine GPS system for offshore sailing, consider the following features:
- High Accuracy: Look for systems with WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) or differential GPS for enhanced accuracy.
- Durability: The system should be rugged and waterproof, able to withstand harsh marine environments.
- Screen Quality: A large, high-resolution screen that is readable in bright sunlight is essential.
- User-Friendly Interface: The system should have an intuitive interface, making it easy to set up and use.
- Advanced Navigation Tools: Features like route planning, waypoint setting, and trackback functions are important.
- Connectivity: Systems with NMEA 2000 compatibility can integrate with other marine electronics on your vessel.
- Additional Features: Look for added benefits such as fish finders, radar compatibility, and weather updates.
Top Marine GPS Systems for Offshore Sailing
Here are three of the best marine GPS systems available on Amazon, each offering a range of features to enhance your offshore sailing experience.
1. Garmin GPSMAP 79s Marine GPS Handheld
Features:
- Rugged Design: Built to withstand harsh marine environments, this device is water-resistant (IPX6) and floats in water.
- Worldwide Basemap: Preloaded with a worldwide basemap for basic navigation and location tracking.
- High-Resolution Color Display: Ensures visibility in various lighting conditions.
- Support for Multiple Satellite Systems: Includes GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and QZSS for reliable global tracking.
Price: Approximately $307.99
Why It's Great: The Garmin GPSMAP 79s is designed for serious sailors who need a reliable and rugged handheld GPS. Its ability to float and resist water makes it a dependable choice for offshore sailing. The device's high-resolution display and support for multiple satellite systems ensure accurate and clear navigation.
2. Garmin GPSMAP 8612xsv Chartplotter
Features:
- 12-inch Full HD Display: Provides clear and detailed views of charts and sonar data.
- Sonar Support: Includes built-in support for CHIRP traditional sonar, CHIRP ClearVü, and CHIRP SideVü scanning sonars.
- Preloaded Maps: Comes with preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts and LakeVü g3 inland maps.
- Networking Capabilities: Features NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity, as well as Wi-Fi and ANT+ support.
Price: Approximately $180.99
Why It's Great: The Garmin GPSMAP 8612xsv is a top-of-the-line chartplotter ideal for offshore sailors who require advanced sonar capabilities and high-definition charting. Its large display and robust networking options make it an excellent choice for larger vessels and professional applications.
3. Simrad GO9 XSE Chartplotter/Fishfinder
Features:
- 9-inch Touchscreen Display: Easy-to-use interface with multi-touch capabilities.
- Built-In CHIRP Sonar and DownScan Imaging: Provides clear views of fish and structures below your boat.
- Preloaded C-MAP US Coastal Charts: Detailed charts for coastal navigation.
- Wireless Connectivity: Connects to smartphones and tablets for remote control and notifications.
- NMEA 2000 Compatible: Integrates with other marine electronics.
Price: Approximately $419.99
Why It's Great: The Simrad GO9 XSE offers a balance of advanced features and ease of use, making it a popular choice among recreational sailors and anglers. Its touchscreen interface and built-in sonar capabilities provide comprehensive navigation and fishing support, while the wireless connectivity enhances its functionality.
Conclusion
Choosing the right marine GPS system for offshore sailing can significantly enhance your navigation experience, ensuring safety and efficiency on the open sea. The Garmin GPSMAP 79s, Garmin GPSMAP 8612xsv, and Simrad GO9 XSE each offer unique features and advantages, making them excellent options for different needs and budgets. By investing in a reliable marine GPS system, you can sail with confidence, knowing you have the best tools at your disposal.