A marine GPS chartplotter is essential for boating navigation, providing accurate positioning and detailed mapping to ensure safe and efficient travel. When choosing a chartplotter, you need to consider various key features such as screen size, resolution, mapping options, and connectivity. This article aims to guide you through these features and help you select the best chartplotter for your specific boating needs.

Types of Marine GPS Chartplotters

Marine GPS chartplotters come in two primary types: Multifunction Displays (MFDs) and standalone units.

1. Multifunction Displays (MFDs)

These devices integrate various functions, including GPS navigation, fish finding capabilities, radar, and more. They are ideal for those who need a comprehensive navigation solution.

2. Standalone Units

These are dedicated GPS devices focusing solely on navigation without additional features like sonar or radar. They cater to users needing a straightforward navigational tool without the extra functionalities.

Suitability for Various Boating Activities

Depending on your specific boating activities, different types of chartplotters may be more suitable:

• Recreational Boating: Opt for MFDs with integrated entertainment and navigation features.
• Fishing: Choose units with advanced sonar capabilities from brands like Lowrance or Simrad.
• Commercial Use: High-end models from Raymarine offer the reliability and performance needed for professional operations.

Screen Size and Resolution

Screen size plays a crucial role in navigation ease. Larger screens offer better visibility, allowing you to see more map details at a glance, which is essential when plotting routes or identifying hazards.

A high-resolution display enhances clarity and readability, especially in bright conditions. This ensures you can easily read the chartplotter without straining your eyes, even under direct sunlight.

When choosing the optimal screen size based on boat type:

• Small boats: 5-7 inches
• Mid-sized boats: 8-12 inches
• Large vessels: 13 inches and above

Selecting the right screen size and resolution combination ensures you have a reliable navigation tool suited to your boating needs.

Mapping and Navigation Features

Marine GPS chartplotters come preloaded with a variety of mapping options, including coastal maps that detail shorelines, ports, and navigational aids. Popular services like Navionics and C-MAP offer comprehensive cartography to enhance your boating experience.

One standout feature is Auto Guidance+, which helps you plot the safest and most efficient routes by analyzing navigation data. While these technologies significantly aid navigation, it's crucial to maintain safe practices, such as keeping an eye on weather conditions and manually verifying your course against real-world landmarks. This ensures technology complements your navigational skills effectively.

Sonar Capabilities

Sonar technology in marine GPS chartplotters is changing the way anglers find fish. By sending out sound waves and analyzing the echoes that come back, these devices can create detailed images of what's underwater.

Benefits for Anglers

• Fish Finders: Modern chartplotters often double as fish finders, offering significant advantages in identifying productive fishing spots.
• CHIRP Sonar Technology: This advanced sonar type uses a range of frequencies to deliver clearer and more precise images of underwater structures and fish.

Connectivity Options

Wi-Fi connectivity is crucial for ensuring your marine GPS chartplotter remains up-to-date with the latest maps and software updates. It also facilitates seamless data sharing with other devices, such as smartphones and tablets, enhancing the overall boating experience.

NMEA connectivity is another vital feature for modern chartplotters. This standard allows integration with various onboard electronics, including autopilots and AIS (Automatic Identification Systems). The benefits include:

• Data Sharing: Real-time information exchange between devices.
• Enhanced Navigation: Improved route planning and safety.
• System Integration: Unified control of multiple systems from a single interface.

Durability and Waterproofing

The marine environment is notoriously harsh on electronics. Saltwater, high humidity, and constant exposure to the elements can severely impact the longevity of your equipment. For this reason, marine GPS chartplotters must be built with durability.

Waterproof ratings (IPX0-8) are crucial indicators of how well a chartplotter can withstand water exposure. For instance:

• IPX7 rating: Suitable for temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
• IPX8 rating: Designed for continuous immersion in water deeper than 1 meter.

High-quality materials used in construction, such as corrosion-resistant metals and UV-protected plastics, also contribute to the durability of your device. Choosing a chartplotter that meets these standards ensures reliable performance even in challenging conditions.

User Interface

A user-friendly interface is critical when operating a marine GPS chartplotter on the water. Intuitive controls ensure quick and easy navigation through menus, reducing the time spent fiddling with settings and increasing focus on boating activities.

Features enhancing usability:

• Touchscreen functionality: Look for touchscreens that perform well in wet conditions, allowing seamless control even with damp hands.
• Customizable displays: Personalize your interface to show the most relevant information at a glance.
• Responsive buttons: Physical buttons as alternatives to touch controls can be crucial during rough seas.

These elements collectively enhance the boating experience, ensuring ease of use and efficiency.

Additional Features to Consider

Enhancing safety on the water is essential. Distress signal capabilities in marine GPS chartplotters can be a lifesaver. Look for units that integrate Digital Selective Calling (DSC), allowing you to send distress calls with your exact location. Man Overboard (MOB) functions are also crucial, enabling quick marking of a dropped person’s position for fast retrieval.

Other essential additional features include:

• Built-in GPS antennas for accurate positioning
• SD card slots for easy map upgrades
• Advanced sonar options to improve underwater visibility

These enhancements not only bolster safety but also elevate the overall boating experience.

Brand Reputation and Support

Choosing a marine GPS chartplotter from established brands provides quality assurance and peace of mind.

• Robust customer support: Access to comprehensive help resources, including manuals, FAQs, and direct customer service.
• Regular updates: Ensuring your chartplotter remains current with the latest software enhancements.
• Warranties: Providing protection against defects and ensuring long-term functionality.

Investing in a reputable brand ensures you receive a product backed by industry expertise and dedicated support.

What is the difference between GPS and chartplotter?

The main difference between GPS (Global Positioning System) and a chartplotter lies in their functionality and purpose in navigation:

1. GPS:

   - A GPS is a satellite-based system that provides location data (latitude, longitude, speed, etc.) to determine your position anywhere on Earth.

   - GPS devices display your position on a basic map or give coordinates without detailed navigation charts.

   - It is primarily used for location tracking and can be integrated into various devices like phones, cars, and boats.

2. Chartplotter:

   - A chartplotter is a navigation tool used mainly in marine environments that combines GPS data with nautical charts to provide a detailed view of the boat's position relative to surrounding waters.

   - It shows navigational information such as water depths, coastlines, buoys, and other maritime features, making it ideal for plotting courses on water.

   - Chartplotters are more specialized for marine navigation, helping with route planning and ensuring safe passage in complex waterways.

In summary, a GPS gives raw positional data, while a chartplotter combines that data with detailed maps, designed specifically for marine navigation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best marine GPS chartplotter for your boat depends on understanding your specific needs, the size of your vessel, and the environments you navigate. Consider key factors such as screen size, user interface, chart compatibility, and additional features like radar integration or sonar capability. Opt for a chartplotter that provides accurate and easy-to-read data, ensuring a safe and efficient boating experience. By investing in a quality GPS chartplotter tailored to your boating activities, you'll navigate with confidence and precision on every journey.