best sailboat electronics

How to choose the right electronics for your sailboat

Equipping your sailboat with the right electronics is crucial for a safe and enjoyable sailing adventure. This comprehensive guide will help you choose the best options for your specific needs.

How to Choose the Right Electronics for Your Sailboat

Embarking on a sailing adventure with your family is an exciting and fulfilling experience. However, to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, it’s essential to equip your sailboat with the right electronics. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the various types of electronics you may need for your sailboat, their functions, and how to choose the best options for your specific needs.

Table of Contents

Navigation systems, communication devices, weather monitoring, safety equipment, entertainment and connectivity, power management, final thoughts.

Navigating the open sea can be challenging, especially for those new to sailing. Modern technology has made it easier than ever to plot your course and stay on track. Here are some essential navigation electronics to consider for your sailboat:

GPS Chartplotter

A GPS chartplotter is a must-have for any sailboat. This device combines GPS data with electronic charts to display your boat’s position on a digital map. It helps you plan your route, monitor your progress, and avoid potential hazards such as shallow waters or submerged rocks.

When choosing a GPS chartplotter, consider the following factors:

• Screen size and resolution : A larger screen with high resolution will make it easier to read charts and navigate, especially in bright sunlight.
• Touchscreen vs. buttons : Touchscreen chartplotters are more intuitive and user-friendly, but buttons can be more reliable in wet conditions.
• Built-in vs. external GPS antenna : Built-in antennas are more convenient, but external antennas may provide better reception in some situations.
• Expandability : Some chartplotters can be connected to other devices, such as radar or AIS systems, for additional functionality.

An autopilot system can be a valuable addition to your sailboat, allowing you to maintain a steady course without constantly adjusting the helm. This can be particularly useful during long passages or when sailing in challenging conditions.

There are two main types of autopilot systems:

• Wheel or tiller pilots : These are simpler and more affordable systems that attach directly to your boat’s wheel or tiller. They are suitable for smaller boats and less demanding conditions.
• Below-deck autopilots : These systems are more powerful and reliable, with a separate control unit and drive unit installed below deck. They are suitable for larger boats and more challenging conditions.

When choosing an autopilot system, consider factors such as your boat’s size, the type of sailing you plan to do, and your budget.

Radar can be a valuable tool for navigating in low visibility conditions, such as fog or heavy rain. It uses radio waves to detect objects, such as other boats, buoys, or land, and displays their position on a screen.

When choosing a radar system, consider the following factors:

• Power output : Higher power output will provide better range and resolution, but may also consume more energy.
• Antenna size : Larger antennas will provide better resolution and range, but may be more challenging to install and require more space.
• Display options : Some radar systems can be integrated with your chartplotter, while others have a separate display.

Staying connected while at sea is essential for both safety and convenience. Here are some communication devices to consider for your sailboat:

A VHF radio is a crucial piece of equipment for any sailboat, allowing you to communicate with other boats, marinas, and emergency services. It is also required by law in many countries.

When choosing a VHF radio, consider the following factors:

• Fixed vs. handheld : Fixed VHF radios are more powerful and reliable, but handheld radios can be useful for dinghy trips or as a backup.
• DSC capability : Digital Selective Calling (DSC) allows you to send a distress signal with your boat’s position at the push of a button. This feature is highly recommended for safety reasons.
• AIS integration : Some VHF radios can be connected to an Automatic Identification System (AIS), which displays information about nearby boats on your chartplotter.

Satellite Phone

A satellite phone can be a valuable addition to your sailboat, allowing you to make calls and send messages from anywhere in the world. This can be particularly useful for emergencies or when sailing in remote areas.

When choosing a satellite phone, consider factors such as coverage, call quality, and data capabilities. Keep in mind that satellite phone service requires a subscription, which can be expensive.

Keeping an eye on the weather is essential for safe and enjoyable sailing. Here are some weather monitoring devices to consider for your sailboat:

Weather Station

A weather station can provide valuable information about the local conditions, such as wind speed, wind direction, temperature, and barometric pressure. This data can help you make informed decisions about your sailing plans and anticipate changes in the weather.

When choosing a weather station, consider factors such as accuracy, ease of installation, and compatibility with other devices, such as your chartplotter.

Weather Receiver

A weather receiver allows you to receive weather forecasts and alerts from official sources, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the United States. This can be particularly useful when sailing in unfamiliar waters or during severe weather events.

When choosing a weather receiver, consider factors such as coverage, reception quality, and ease of use.

In addition to navigation and communication devices, there are several electronic safety devices that can enhance your sailboat’s safety:

An Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a valuable safety tool that allows you to see and be seen by other boats. It transmits and receives information about your boat’s position, speed, and course, as well as other nearby vessels, helping you avoid collisions and navigate crowded waters.

When choosing an AIS system, consider the following factors:

• Class A vs. Class B : Class A AIS systems are more powerful and feature-rich, but are also more expensive and typically used on commercial vessels. Class B AIS systems are more affordable and suitable for most recreational sailboats.
• Transponder vs. receiver : A transponder both transmits and receives AIS data, while a receiver only receives data. A transponder is recommended for enhanced safety and visibility.

An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is a critical piece of safety equipment that can help rescue teams locate your boat in the event of an emergency. When activated, it sends a distress signal with your boat’s position to search and rescue services via satellite.

When choosing an EPIRB, consider factors such as battery life, ease of activation, and compatibility with the international Cospas-Sarsat system.

While not essential for safety or navigation, entertainment and connectivity devices can make your sailing experience more enjoyable and comfortable:

Marine Stereo

A marine stereo can provide music and entertainment while you’re sailing, helping to create a pleasant atmosphere on board. When choosing a marine stereo, consider factors such as sound quality, durability, and compatibility with your preferred music sources (e.g., Bluetooth, USB, or satellite radio).

Wi-Fi Booster

A Wi-Fi booster can help you stay connected to the internet while at sea, allowing you to access weather forecasts, communicate with friends and family, and stream entertainment. When choosing a Wi-Fi booster, consider factors such as range, compatibility with your devices, and ease of installation.

All of these electronic devices require power, so it’s essential to have a reliable and efficient power management system on your sailboat. This may include:

• Batteries : Choose high-quality marine batteries with sufficient capacity to power your electronics.
• Charging system : Ensure your boat’s alternator and/or solar panels can keep your batteries charged.
• Inverter : An inverter converts your boat’s DC power to AC power, allowing you to use household appliances and charge devices.

Equipping your sailboat with the right electronics is essential for a safe and enjoyable sailing adventure. By considering your specific needs and preferences, you can choose the best navigation, communication, weather monitoring, safety, entertainment, and power management devices for your boat. Happy sailing!

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The Best New Electronics Of 2023

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Marine electronics production has been slow the past few years, but the floodgates are now open, leaving consumers awash in innovation.

Garmin GPSMAP 8624.

When it comes to the electronics on our boats, we should all know our AC from our DC — but what about PC? No, not political correctness — we're talking post-Covid. Yes, we're well aware the virus hasn't disappeared from daily life, but its role in the marine manufacturing world has diminished significantly. The pandemic led to supply-chain backlogs, leaving manufacturers struggling to meet demand for existing products, much less develop next-generation merchandise. This explains why the introduction of new tech and gear has been sparse these last few years.

We noticed a shift mid-2022 when the well-known brands starting teasing our BoatUS Magazine editors with bona fide innovative stuff. We got a sneak peek from the industry last fall, so as the 2023 season creeps closer, allow us to showcase what's cool, hot, and new in the world of "PC" marine electronics.

Blind Spot Eliminator

Docking a boat can be difficult when you can't see past the bow or across the transom, an issue now addressed with the Garmin Surround View Camera System. Stitching together the view from six different cameras, Surround View gives you 360-degree views at the helm, and creates a live "bird's-eye" view looking down on your boat. You can also set a "visual bumper" indicator on the screen so you know when a dock, pier, or another boat is about to violate a preset barrier limit. Distance markers also help ascertain exactly how close your boat is getting to any object and, if desired, you can pull up each camera's view individually. OEM, so look for pricing as an option on a new boat | Garmin.com

Garmin Surround View Camera System provides eyes in the back of your head.

Color & Clarity

Navionics digital cartography is known for its level of detail and ease of use. Garmin bought the mapmaker in 2017, but only now has fully integrated Navionics charts across its entire line of Garmin GPSMAP units (look for Garmin Navionics+ and Garmin Navionics Vision+). From the diminutive 743xsv to the movie-screen-like 8624 models, these now come with Navionics inland and coastal mapping built in. The color palettes and interface have been tweaked to provide improved detail and visibility. Also new are auto-routing capabilities, and color-shaded depth ranges with up to 1-foot contour detail. $1,099 to $12,299 | Garmin.com

The entire Garmin GPSMAP line now comes with standard Navionics cartography.

See Through Salty Seas

Garmin's LiveScope virtual real-time imaging changed the way freshwater anglers fish and allowed them to spot fish beneath the surface with such detail that it became possible to judge the species and its size long before taking a first cast. The downside? Because of very limited range in saltwater environments, it didn't do much for coastal and oceanic anglers. LiveScope XR solves that problem. Using the GLS 10 black box, a LVS62 transducer, stabilizers to mitigate the effect of waves, and multiple color patterns, you can probe the brine out to 350 feet. Freshwater anglers also benefit with LiveScope XR, as a previous range of 200 feet can be extended out to 500 feet. Boats with bow-mounted electric trolling motors (which act as the transducer mount) will find the most utility from this system. Rigs with an existing GLS 10 can be upgraded to XR with a (free) software update and the LVS62 transducer. $2,999.99 | Garmin.com

Saltwater anglers can see through the brine out to 350 feet with LiveScope XR from Garmin.

Power To The People

What's the best thing about not having a generator? Not having to listen to the rumble and grumble of a generator. Still, we need our power. Navico Group's Fathom lithium-ion power management system aims to provide ample juice to run everything from air conditioning to galley appliances via a combination of power conversion and distribution, digital switching, and control/monitoring, with powerful lithium-ion batteries at the heart of the system. It's available in 12-, 24-, and 48-volt systems for boats ranging from 27- to 35-plus feet, and can be controlled with an app on your smart device. Preconfigured kits are scheduled to launch through 2023. OEM product (look for it as a new-boat option), or available as custom kits ranging from $1,000 to $17,000+ | Navico.com

The new Fathom lithium-ion power management system does it all.

Old Boat, New Tricks

Joystick controls have made life easier for many boaters when it comes to virtual anchoring, close-quarters maneuvering, and docking. But most of the systems out there are intended for outboards, sterndrives, and pod drives, leaving lots of boaters with straight-shaft inboards to go without. Twin Disc has a new solution with Express Positioning, which is compatible with boats incorporating single or twin inboards plus hydraulic thrusters. ABT-TRAC TRAC-Link and Side Power S-Link thrusters at the bow or both bow and stern are integrated with the inboard's transmission(s) to hold your boat in place or make micro-adjustments to its position, even in high wind and/or high-current conditions, while a full-color display provides an interface showing position, system status, and operational parameters. Price varies by installation | TwinDisc.com

Twin Disc figured out how to add joystick control to straight-shaft inboards.

Stay In Touch

Having full connectivity once meant you needed multiple antennas, had to manually switch between carriers to maintain connectivity, and had no idea how much data you were chewing through until that eye-popping bill arrived in the mail. The KVH TracPhone LTE 1 aims to solve those problems, packing a high-gain dual LTE-A antenna array, modem, GPS, and Wi-Fi router into a 6.25-pound, 13.5- by 13.3-inch dome. KVH promises you can pull in cell coverage when over 20 miles from the nearest cell tower (with antenna mounted 20 feet above the waterline) and enjoy faster-than-4G data speeds with automatic switching between carriers and multi-device connectivity.

TracPhone LTE-1 packs satellite, cellular, Wi-Fi, modem, and GPS into one dome.

The LTE Manager App allows you to see your data usage at any time. You can also set usage alerts via text or email, so you get a heads-up long before those bills arrive. $1,595 | KVH.com

For Some Perspective On Pricing

What's the most significant development in the world of marine electronics since the turn of the century? You can make arguments for total system integration; simpler, intuitive user interfaces; or the advent of touchscreens. But if you measure "most significant" in terms of impact on the greatest number of boaters, the development to focus on is probably the massive increase in bang-for-your-buck. Flash back to the dawn of the 21st century: Today's relatively inexpensive midrange multifunction displays (MFDs) have the capabilities of full-blown nav suites that would have cost tens of thousands of dollars back in 2000.

Then. (Photo: Rich Armstrong)

Remember back when everyone was freaking out over the Y2K bug that might crash all computers at the end of 1999? If you wanted complete navigational nirvana, you'd have spent $6,500 for a 10-inch color chartplotter with differential GPS (Northstar 961); $200 for a halfway decent chart chip (C-Map NT); $2,000 for a standard-issue 6.4-inch color fishfinder (Lowrance LCX-16CI); $3,000 to get a dinky entry-level standalone radar with a 6- to 8-inch LCD display (Furuno 1712); and $3,200 for an autopilot (Raymarine ST6001, core pack and drive unit). In total, you were looking at around $15,000 for a complete system — installation not included!

Today, you can get a Raymarine Element HV 12-inch full-color touchscreen LCD with twice the resolution of the vintage 2000 screens and all the listed accessories above for around $7,500. Your fishfinder now has 3D, side-scan, down-scan, and CHIRP (all distant dreams in 2000). You'll also have AIS display capability (yet to exist for the old package) and a long list of abilities that also weren't commonly seen at the turn of the century, such as overlaying your radar over your chartplotter, splitting multiple screens between chartplotter and fishfinder, bringing up engine data on your MFD, and so on. A complete package with the Garmin GPSMAP 1242xsv package, Lowrance HDS-12 LIVE, Simrad GO 12XSE, or Furuno TZTL12F all swim the same pricing and packages waters, and come in under the $10,000 mark.

Now. (Photo: Rich Armstrong)

So let's use $15,000 versus $7,500 as our impressive comparative price drop by 50% for what today constitutes a mid-level marine electronics system. And that understates all the value-added features and functionality we get out of today's systems. So for the broadest swath of the boating public, the bottom line is that the single, most-impactful change in marine electronics since the turn of the century is an impressive decrease in cost.

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Lenny Rudow

New Boats, Fishing & Electronics Editor, BoatUS Magazine

Top tech writer and accomplished sports fisherman, BoatUS Magazine Contributing Editor Lenny Rudow has written seven practical boating books, won 30 awards from Boating Writers International — many for his marine electronics articles – and two for excellence from the Outdoor Writers Association of America. He judges the NMMA Innovation Awards, and is Angler in Chief at FishTalk, his own Chesapeake-based publication. A great teacher and inspirational writer, Lenny hosts many of BoatUS Magazine’s very-popular how-to videos, which can be found on the BoatUS YouTube channel, or at BoatUS.com

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Best Sailing Racing Electronics

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

July 5, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• Sensors and other fancy LCD screens can help track important data while sailing
• This access to crucial data can help make informed decisions while racing
• The accuracy will be tested but you can be very close to the wind and boat speed
• Various technology can give you the ability to remain safe on the water
• Consider factors like a budget in order to find the best racing electronics for you

‍ Electronics on a sailboat can make life easier and more convenient. But what are the best sailing racing electronics?

The best sailing electronics for racing are the Airmar DST, Dometic Steering Actuator, and the Garmin Quatix Marine Smartwatch. Other electronics racers can utilize while sailing include the Raymarine Axiom, Garmin GPSMAP, and QWORK Battery Monitor.

In my experience, it can be easy to overwhelm yourself with too many electronics. Try to aim for what is best in your situation and how it might apply to your boat while racing.

Table of contents

‍ Top Eight Marine Electronics for Racing or Sailing

There are an enormous amount of electronics that you can equip on your sailboat to help you while racing. Keep in mind that these will not guarantee a victory but it could help you become a better racer if you are able to pinpoint areas that need improvement.

You do not have to invest your time and money into all of these in order to become a better sailor. But the addition of these items can potentially make or break you getting ahead in races with an understanding of the little details that you are likely missing.

The Airmar DST 810 streamlines speed calibration with its integrated attitude sensor and even has the free CAST app that eliminates the need for expensive computer software. Racers can obtain heel-compensated speed at various angles and ranges.

The 5Hz output allows you to make swift decision-making on the water. This sensor is moderately priced at $399 but it can also measure depth and water temperature (to a tenth of a degree). It can also support hull angles up to 22 degrees so that it can fit on many boats with curved hulls.

• Self-calibration for correcting heel
• Supports hull angles up to 22 degrees
• Might be too much information on the app

Dometic Steering Actuator

The Dometic Optimus outboard electric steering actuator provides racers with total power-steering capabilities with an adjustable parameter that can accommodate any traditional outboard motor. The installation is simple with a quick setup of the electronic helm display that takes the need away for oil or purging.

The system can be utilized with joystick controls and even SeaWays (Dometic autopilot).  For more than one engine setup you will need an additional actuator. The price for one engine system is about $5,700 so keep in mind your budget.

• Easy installation
• Very reliable and requires little maintenance
• At $5,700 per unit it is quite expensive for many

Garmin Quatix Marine Smartwatch

No sailing race would be complete without the use of a sailing watch. Club racers can use the Garmin Quatix 7 which offers a broad range of activities to be had on the water. It provides excellent navigation acts and is designed to handle conditions while racing or cruising.

It has a tide tracker and other useful information to keep you up to date while racing. It also has a countdown timer for when you do compete in races to help keep track of when to pass the start line. I have used other marine watches in the past but this has been my favorite overall for its design and functionality.

• Countdown timer for races
• A computer on your wrist that is also waterproof
• Too many features for those that want simplicity

Raymarine Axiom

If you do not want a sailing watch for the GPS capabilities then you should check out the Raymarine Axiom 9 . This allows you to see your instrument display with a variety of important information at your fingertips. They feature tons of memory for anything you want to put on it and I love that you do not have to pull cables through pipework to set up.

If you decide to combine this with other sailing instruments provided by Raymarine then you can tap into features such as cameras and autopilot. Those that want to enjoy fishing when they are not racing can also utilize the sonar feature among other instrument displays.

• Great interface for all of your instrument needs compared to the competition
• Can connect to the network of other equipment by the same brand
• Around a $1,000 without the other features

Garmin GPSMAP

If you want a similar experience to Raymarine products you could opt for the Garmin GPSMAP that doubles as a chartplotter and sonar. It can connect to other Garmin related products on your boat which makes sense if you want everything to work together while racing.

It has a clear display and excellent sonar features that allow you to see what is around you underneath. This lets you have some idea of whether or not you can race in shallow waters in new areas. I enjoy not having black boxes and sharper resolution compared to other brands.

• Compatible with other Garmin system offerings
• No black boxes and has clear displays
• Around $2,400 so consider your budget

QWORK Battery Monitor

Depending on what type of boat you have you will likely need to keep an eye on your battery to ensure it is operating like it should be. This is where an excellent battery monitor comes in handy like the one by QWORK . It lets me know if my battery is becoming weak or if I have power being zapped from something left running.

It features an easy to read LCD display that gives you all the information you need to check the battery life on your boat. It can also store the last voltage reading after the system shuts off so you know that the battery is charging effectively or if you need to take action.

• Affordable and easy installation
• Gives accurate battery reading
• Some users found it difficult to understand

Raymarine Speed Instrument

In races for sailing you need to know how fast you are going but you may not want to spend a ton of money on instrument displays that have an abundance of information. Instead you could opt for something like a knot meter.

Raymarine offers a great speed instrument to racing sailors on a budget. This gives you the opportunity to see the average speeds of your boat without breaking the bank and with an easy setup. I love this because you get valuable speed information for a great price.

• Best for tracking speed while on a budget
• IPX6 waterproof rating and three year warranty
• Other devices might have this information so check your instruments

Ritchie Navigator Inclinometer

For sailors that want to sail on a budget and still receive important data you could opt for an inclinometer by Ritchie Navigator. At round $30 you can simply attach this to your boat and see how your boat responds in real time.

This will allow you to see the heel of the boat and give you the option to make adjustments as you go to stay in a straight line. I like it since it helps give me an idea for staying in line on a course for windier days. This is a handy device to optimize your performances during sailing.

• $30 for a great addition to the boat
• Gives accurate heel readings and is easy to see
• Other devices could have this information so check your instruments

Why Do You Need Electronics for Sailing and Racing?

There are many marine electronics for sailors that can help aid you in becoming better at sailing. There is not a perfect tool out there to help you win races or make you better than anyone else.

However you should opt for racing electronics to help you out in a variety of situations. Without the use of these would make situations interesting out at sea or potentially a dangerous occurrence.

Call for Help

In addition to a marine radio that you should already have you might want to equip your boat with another form of communication. Most technology is equipped with WiFi or the capability to be connected to data so that you can receive messages or call out for help.

Other crucial safety measures include AIS that can help track your boat. If you happen to lose your signal then your last known position can be tracked.

Latest Navigation

If you are using old maps to navigate then you might be fine in a lot of areas. But what about sailing in a popular area that has been built or modified due to disasters or other events?

Having a great navigational tool to help guide you through an area is best for locations you are unfamiliar with. This allows you the opportunity to navigate safely without potentially damaging your boat or getting lost and can help you stay on the race course if you have set an outline.

Weather Updates

Most sailors check the weather the day they are going out at sea or joining a race. But the weather can be unpredictable in many locations across the world.

It is ideal to have something that allows you to track weather updates as you are sailing. This could be updates for dense fog or a strong thunderstorm forming off of the coast with damaging winds.

Instruments with Crucial Data

Instruments provide important data for sailors that need to make adjustments on the fly while racing. This data could be something as simple as wind speed and the boat’s current direction.

Without the use of these instruments you are unlikely to know when to make tactical decisions during a race. These are the little things that add up to a potential victory and everyone is likely using something to gain a slight edge.

Boat Performance

If you are preparing for a race it is ideal to have the most information available to make the best decisions. Understanding how the boat is responding to waves and the wind is one aspect but other key data points can help you make informed decisions on how to navigate your boat better. This will allow you to test out new techniques and see what works best at obtaining top speeds on your boat.

How to Find the Best Sailing Electronics

What is considered the best racing technology to you might differ to someone else. There are a variety of different uses that can make a difference on your boat versus another.

Determine Your Desired Use

Your sailing goals are likely going to be different than someone else’s. It is important to understand what you are planning to do on your boat before trying to add a lot of technology on it. If you like fishing and racing then you might want something that can help out for both sonar and GPS capabilities.

Research Various Brands

Brands are likely the first thing you see for a particular product. Some will vary in price and quality. It is crucial that you research at least three different options for whatever product you want so that you have various prices and quality to see.

Make Sure it is Compatible

Not every electronic device for a boat will be able to join your adventure. This includes the existing wiring or other sensors that could affect how it is used. This might need an expert to install if you plan on updating older technology on your boat.

Consult a Professional

You might want to ask a dealer that specializes in boat technology. They will likely be yout best bet to advise you in various additions to your boat or how to install them. If you choose them you might also get a craftsmanship warranty but always check beforehand.

Check Out Boat Shows

Boat shows are a great place for brands to try out new and improved technology. This allows you to see first hand what the electronics are intended to be used for and how it could apply to you. This also gives you the luxury of asking important questions and troubleshooting tips that you may encounter.

Consider the Warranty

There are many brands that offer a warranty on their products. This is important to keep track of in the event that the technology decides to stop working or has issues updating. Strong customer support is crucial for a long term customer.

Ease of Installation

Once you have conducted your research you will likely have a good idea on what is easy to install and what is not. Be mindful of what type of devices you need to have installed by a professional since that will add in the costs on top of the device itself. If you want to do it all yourself then you should consider ones that are the easiest to set up.

What Other Customers Have to Say

It is no fun reading bad reviews or mixed ones that do not offer a lot of information. But you can likely see where people are coming from on a bad review at least.

Consumer reviews will give you the cherry on top of your research in order to find the best product no matter what. If someone else reports the type of boat and activity on the water they used the technology for then you will likely have a good opinion of the brand.

Have a Budget

Budget is one of the most important aspects in determining what you can afford and what you can add to your boat. Even though you might like a certain brand you might not be able to integrate their features if they are at a higher price point.

This also goes hand in hand with your intended use and what you plan on using the most on your boat. Narrowing down this will greatly help your budget.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

by this author

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Best Electronics Awards 2021

• Updated: February 10, 2021

Welcome to the inaugural Best Elex Awards, which honors standout marine electronics products that have been reviewed and approved by the editorial team behind the four leading titles in marine media: Boating, Yachting, Cruising World and Salt Water Sportsman . Over the course of two months, the nominees were evaluated by our team of eight judges, including the editors-in-chief and electronics editors of the aforementioned brands. In the end, seven products set themselves apart. And the winners are:

Editors’ Choice: Raymarine Axiom+

Leading edge technology: furuno navnet tztouch3 9f, best integrated system: garmin gpsmap 1243xsv, most innovative for sailing: airmar dst 810, best in entertainment: rockford fosgate 12-inch color optix m2 subwoofers, most innovative for power: dometic optimus outboard electric steering actuator, best in communication: standard horizon gx2400 matrix.

Raymarine’s Axiom+ multifunction displays replace the company’s original Axiom line in 7-, 9-, and 12-inch-display models. The plus units integrate a quad-core processor, multi-channel sonar views (including RealVision 3D), and augmented-reality navigation, and include up to 16 GB of onboard data storage. All displays employ in-plane switching for better, brighter viewing along with the company’s HydroTough treatment to repel water and oils. Axiom+ models start at $749.

What the judges said: “These units have more memory than your mother-in-law. They run a multitude of apps, using an intuitive GUI ripped from a smart TV, and, thanks to WiFi, no pulling radar cable through pipework. What’s not to like?”

Furuno responded to customer requests for a smaller version of its TZTouch3 technology, introduced last February, by delivering the 9F, a 9-inch IPS display for tighter helms and second stations. The hybrid-control TZT9F features a quad-core processor, 256 GB memory card built into the system, a built-in 1kW, single-channel TruEcho CHIRP Fish Finder, and a traditional 50/200kHz RezBoost Fish Finder. The MFD comes with a PIN-code lock feature and is also compatible with a wide array of Furuno peripherals, including radar, autopilot, VHF, and black-box sonars. The TZT9F costs $2,995.

What the judges said: “This smaller version of the TZTouch3 delivers so many of the best features of its bigger brothers. The edge-swiping interface, in particular, puts all of your most-important functions within quick reach. The built-in 1 kW chirp that’s frequency agile is a big plus for anglers, as is the ability to lock the MFD with a passcode.”

Garmin’s new GPSMAP 1243xsv multifunction display surpasses its predecessor, the 1242, with edge-to-edge glass, an IPS display, higher resolution, better scanning sonar and more. Garmin says it has now brought those premium features—indicative of its 8600 series—to mid-level consumers. The 1kW chirp unit incorporates all of Garmin’s sonar capabilities such as LiveScope, SideVu, and ClearVu. The 1243 can be flush-mounted in the same space as a 1242 with a retrofit kit. The 1243xsv costs $2,899.

What the judges said: “Garmin’s new 1243xsv combines popular, SideVu, ClearVu and chirp sonar all in one device with no black boxes. In addition, they’ve upgraded the screen for brighter, sharper resolution and made the device networkable to integrate with NMEA 2000 connected engines and all other Garmin products.”

Airmar’s DST810 Smart Multisensor makes calibrating accurate speed a simple process. The unit features an integrated attitude sensor, as well, for logging heel and trim data. With the free CAST app, boaters won’t need expensive PC software to provide heel-compensated speed across multiple heel angles and speed ranges. The 5 Hz output delivers unrivaled speed for making quick decisions on the water. The sensor, which also measures depth and water temperature—to a tenth of a degree—accommodates hull angles of up to 22 degrees and costs $399.

What the judges said: “Airmar sensors are used extensively by sailing instruments, which means the new sensor can easily replace older ones. The ability to self-calibrate and ‘see’ down to the bottom when measuring depth is a great benefit, especially for sailboats that often have curved hull forms. The ability to correct for heel and calibrate speed accordingly is of great value to racing sailors, but also to navigation, since speed through the water is used to calculate current, true wind speed and other critical sailing data.”

Rockford Fosgate has introduced 12-inch Color Optix Subwoofers for its M2 line of Element Ready sound technology. The subwoofers come in two types — infinite baffle, which provides more strength in the cone — and sealed options for smaller enclosures. Available in black, white, black with stainless insert or white with stainless insert, the subs can be customized by connecting an optional Color Optix Controller and RF Connect App that allows selection of various light colors and patterns. The 12-inch M2s cost $449.

What the judges said: “The M2 subwoofer’s customizable LED colors let users personalize their audio experience. With the ability to pump out up to 1600 watts of power, a lack of volume should never be an issue.”

Dometic’s Optimus Outboard Electric Steering Actuator delivers full power-steering functionality with auto-adjustable parameters to any conventional outboard. The actuator, electronic helm display and harness install quickly without the need for hoses, oil or purging. The system also integrates with joystick control, SeaStation (position hold), SeaWays (Dometic autopilot), and third-party autopilots. This actuator employs a compact brushless DC motor and a unique roller screw that produces enough power to push even the heaviest outboards. Two engines require two actuators; triple- or quad-outboard setups also employ two actuators with additional tie-bars. Price for a single-engine system is $5,700, about 15 percent higher than equivalent electro-hydraulic systems.

What the judges said: “The new Optimus electric steering system brings marine-steering technology into the 21st century.”

Standard Horizon’s GX2400 Matrix VHF radio replaces earlier GX220 products; it offers an internal, 66-channel WAAS GPS receiver; NMEA 2000 networkability; a wireless (or wired) full-functioning, second-station RAM mic; and an AIS receiver. Anglers can employ the voice scrambler to send encrypted messages to fishing buddies. The fixed-mount radio costs $449.99.

Read Next: More Top Marine Electronics for Boating

What the judges said: “Standard Horizon’s GX2400 is a feature-heavy VHF base-station radio that delivers mic expandability and NMEA 2000 compatibility at a budget-conscious price point.”

• More: Airmar , Dometic , furuno , garmin , Gear , marine audio , marine electronics , raymarine , Rockford Fosgate , sonar , standard horizon , vhf

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What Marine Electronics Do I Need on My Boat?

What are the “must-have” electronics that you need on a boat? Well, that’s a great question. The best boat electronics are tools that can help you improve your time spent on the water. Figuring out what those tools are starts with thinking about how you like to spend your time on the water—whether that’s fishing, rafting up, long-distance cruising, or watersports—and factoring in what kind of boat you own.

The marine electronics package you’d use for a fishing boat is completely different from a package you might need for a kayak, personal watercraft (PWC), or pontoon, for example. Regardless of what kind of boater you are or what water-based activities you enjoy, there are a few basic electronics you’ll want to consider adding to your arsenal.

Useful Boat Electronics

1. boat navigation app.

This one is a given—and luckily, a good boating app, like KnowWake , can serve multiple purposes. Not only is KnowWake great for GPS destination routing, location sharing, and navigation , but it comes with a long list of complimentary features that decrease your need for many other types of electronics all together.

App users can take advantage of tools like:

• Wake Zone Identifier
• Anchor Alarm
• Virtual Dive Flag
• Local and Remote Depth
• Pre-Departure Safety Checklists
• Easy-Submit Float Plan Tool
• Augmented Reality (AR) Capabilities
• Social Features, like Group Chat and Friends List
• Crowdsourced Point of Interests (POIs), like Raft Ups, Saved Spots, Hazards, Patrols
• And so much more…

The best part is, KnowWake is free! No purchase or subscription fees are necessary.

2. Fish Finder and/or Depth Finder

Fish finders or depth finders (also sometimes referred to as depth sounders) use sound, or SONAR, to locate fish underneath the water. As you can probably guess, these tools are an avid angler’s best friend—and believe it or not, they can help you catch more fish if used in the right way.

Every fish finder is different, so you’ll want to get very familiar with your unit’s user interface and settings, which can include everything from zoom and range, to color pallets, scanning vs. traditional views, sensitivity, and screen brightness

3. VHF Radio

A VHF radio isn’t just a “nice-to-have,” it’s without a doubt a “must-have” piece of safety equipment you should always keep onboard. Whether you’re inshore or offshore boating, you never know when your cell phone may lose service or lose battery completely.

In case of an emergency, your VHF radio serves as your most reliable form of communication between you and local law enforcement or the U.S. Coast Guard.

4. GPS/Chartplotter

While a lot of basic navigation actions can be done right in the KnowWake app, some boaters do find it useful to have a separate standalone marine GPS units or chartplotters that are satellite-based systems.

These kinds of tools can help you identify your position, speed and direction while underway, as well as point out any nearby aids or hazards to navigation.

5. Boat Monitoring System

What many like to refer to as “connected boat technology” has gained popularity in the last few years. Boat owners love the idea that they can know where their boat is at all times, plus it’s current condition or status by utilizing onboard sensors that monitor bilge water levels, security and entry alarms, battery charge levels, and more.

Most of these boat monitoring and control systems come standard with their own smartphone application, so owners can literally control their boat from the palm of their hand.

Start building your onboard electronics arsenal with a quick download of the KnowWake app today!

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10 Exciting New Marine Electronics for 2024

• By Jim Hendricks
• January 24, 2024

This year ushers in a wealth of advancements in marine electronics to help boating anglers navigate, communicate, entertain and, of course, catch more fish. Much of the innovation focuses on integration of electronic elements, but there are also remarkable developments in new multifunction displays, ultra-sophisticated sonar transducers, and a new mobile app that lets you access satellite data that can lead to greater offshore angling success. Here are 10 examples of innovative new marine electronics available to boating anglers in 2024. 

Quicklook: 10 Marine Electronics Innovations for 2024

Simrad nsx ultrawide, shakespeare dorsal vhf antenna, airmar medium ultra-wide-beam transducers.

• Furuno FCV-600 and FCV-800 Fish Finders

JL Audio HTML Interface 

Icom ic-m510bb black-box vhf radio, siriusxm fish mapping app for mobile devices.

• Standard Horizon HX320 Submersible Handheld VHF Radio  

Raymarine-Rhodan Integration

• Garmin’s EchoMap Ultra 2 Series

The spectacular new NSX Ultrawide MFDs from Simrad (pictured above) are engineered to deliver the benefits of dual screens in just one display. Available in 12- and 15-inch (diagonal) screens, the revolutionary aspect ratio provides the best view to explore the latest NSX operating system. Boating anglers can create unique split-screen views on the MFDs.

What’s more, the bundled C-Map Discover X charts for North America and Canada are optimized for the new Ultrawide display’s high-pixel density. Extra detail can be added with an upgrade to the optional Reveal X shaded-relief and satellite imagery charting. The NSX Ultrawide is packed with familiar features of the NSX, and it easily integrates with other Simrad marine electronics, including sonar technologies across a wide range of transducers. $2,749 for the 12-inch model, $3,399 for the 15-inch; simrad-yachting.com

The new Dorsal 5912-D-VHF antenna from Shakespeare offers a low-profile, aerodynamic, fin-shaped design. It’s perfect for boats such as flats skiffs that can’t easily accommodate a polelike ­antenna. Boating anglers who don’t want a conventional antenna interfering with casts will love the Dorsal. The surface-mount antenna won’t interfere with style lines, yet it is suitable for VHF ranges up to 10 miles.

The ABS body—available in white or black—measures 2.75 inches tall by 4 inches long by 2.3 inches wide and has a rubber base to seal out moisture. It includes a 26-foot ­coaxial cable and a PL-259 plug, and requires a 1/2-inch hole to install on a horizontal surface. $109.99; westmarine.com

Airmar Technology Corp. has introduced a new line of three medium-frequency ultra­wide transducers featuring single-frequency elements. These chirp-ready 1 kW, 60 to 100 kHz transducers feature a unique concave ceramic array design that delivers an incredible ultrawide beam width ranging from 57 to 73 degrees port and starboard, and a 16-degree average beam width fore and aft.

Ideally suited for anglers seeking species down to 1,300 feet, the new medium B175MW (bronze housing) and SS175MW (stainless-steel housing) transducers are low-profile, tilted-element models that also include fast-response water-temperature sensors.

The TM185MW ultrawide transom-mount version uses the same ceramic array in a urethane-bodied transducer with a stainless-steel transom bracket. Tilted-element models are available in ­zero-, 12- and 20-degree tilt angles. When the new medium ultra­wide models are paired with other popular Airmar models, such as the B275LHW, anglers are equipped with a broad set of frequencies (low, medium-wide and high-wide) to find fish deep and shallow. To learn more, visit airmar.com .

Furuno FCV-600 and FCV-800 Fish Finders

Furuno’s two newest fish finders—the 5.7-inch FCV-600 and 8.4-inch FCV-800—can drive either a chirp or a dual-­frequency continuous-wave transducer, allowing fishermen to configure each unit to suit their needs.

In fact, the FCV-800 features dual transducer ports, allowing for the simultaneous use of chirp and continuous-wave channels. Both come in a sleek case with rubber keys and a robust rotary knob controller. The soft-touch keys are inclined at the top and bottom, making them easy to press.

Features include Furuno’s Accu-Fish fish-size assessment tool and Bottom Discrimination, which displays the bottom type. Two new color palettes—sunlight and yellow—improve visibility in daylight. Furuno’s RezBoost signal-processing technology can improve resolution and target separation using conventional narrow-­band transducers. Pricing was unavailable at press time for the FCV-600 or FCV-800. For more marine electronics information, visit furunousa.com .

JL Audio’s new NMEA 2000-connected MediaMaster HTML interface for JL Marine MediaMaster marine source units gives boaters full control of their premium sound system from an MFD. It allows display and control of all features from Simrad, Lowrance or Garmin MFDs .

Historically, MFDs provided limited compatibility and control for sound systems, which made having an audio-system control head necessary. This HTML interface ends the need for a dedicated audio-system controller, moving control and management to the MFD. It also reduces clutter at the helm, freeing space for installing other equipment on the dash. $499.99; jlaudio.com

Icom’s new IC-M510BB represents the latest in VHF technology, letting you expand your VHF accessibility throughout the boat. All operations, including DSC, can be made from the CommandMic, allowing the VHF radio unit to be installed in an out-of-sight place and as far as 60 feet from the CommandMic.

Up to three CommandMics can be connected to the IC-M510BB, allowing it to double as an onboard intercom system on large boats. NMEA 2000 networking capabilities provide plug-and-play data communication with other electronics, such as an MFD. The radio can also share GNSS/GPS position data, AIS, and DSC calls with other onboard equipment. The unit has a last-call voice-recording function that automatically saves up to two minutes of a recent incoming call. A built-in 15-watt amplifier increases the audio output to an external hailer/speaker, and there’s a built-in hailer function that also sounds foghorn patterns. $799.95; icomamerica.com

SiriusXM Marine’s satellite-delivered Fish Mapping data service provides detailed fishing and weather information directly on a boat’s MFD to help find fish and stay safe. Now for no additional cost subscribers can also download and use a Fish Mapping app on shore to plan ahead.

It provides access to the same eight dedicated fishing features available on an MFD, plus two additional app-­exclusive features:

• Historical data that lets you observe how currents, temperature contours, plankton fronts and other data have moved over the past few days
• Ocean-current movements using arrows to show direction, with the speed ­reflected in the size of the ­arrows (the larger, the faster the currents).

The data is overlaid directly on your chart so you can see information relative to the location of your boat. $109.99 per month; siriusxm.com

Standard Horizon HX320 Submersible Handheld VHF Radio  

Standard Horizon’s new HX320 handheld VHF radio provides a full 6 watts of transmit power, and it also can be set to 2.5 or 1 watt of transmit power to assist in obtaining maximum battery life when talking at closer range. Its speaker is engineered with 700 mW of power for loud and clear audio reception, and the large channel display proves easy to read.

The HX320 ­also enables wireless operation using the optional Bluetooth Standard Horizon SSM-BT10 headset. A built-in rechargeable 2,100 mAh high-capacity lithium polymer battery provides up to 17 hours of operation on one charge. The HX320 also features an IPX7 water-submersion rating and floats, in case you drop it or, worst-case scenario, need to abandon ship. A water-­activated emergency strobe light helps guide rescuers. $149.99; westmarine.com

Raymarine’s Axiom MFDs can now integrate with Rhodan Marine’s bow-mount saltwater trolling motors, which range from 12 to 36 volts in shaft lengths up to 108 inches. Anglers can control Rhodan trolling motors from an Axiom 2 Pro or XL MFD just as they would from the Rhodan key fob. The integration allows anglers to increase and decrease thrust, and adjust the motor’s direction, which is clearly shown on the Axiom display.

With the Hold Heading mode, boaters can maintain a heading and adjust it in 1-degree increments. The system can ­also maintain position over a fishing spot. Raymarine’s integration with Rhodan can ­automatically detect whether the trolling motor is stowed or deployed. This innovative feature enables Axiom to steer the trolling motor when it is active, but then control a Raymarine Evolution autopilot when the Rhodan ­motor is stowed.

Rhodan integration with Axiom requires upgrading to Raymarine’s LightHouse 4.5 operating system. To learn more about this system, visit raymarine.com or rhodanmarine.com .

Read Next: Seven Affordable Satcom Systems for Boating Anglers

Garmin EchoMap Ultra 2 Series

Garmin’s EchoMap Ultra 2 chart-plotter series is designed to offer advanced features for nearshore anglers, including wireless networking, multi-band GPS and a new user interface. The plotters are available in 10-inch (106sv) or 12-inch (126sv) sunlight-readable touchscreens with keyed assist. The Ultra 2 series features the new Ultra High-Definition (UHD) scanning sonar and comes preloaded with Garmin Navionics+ mapping with a one-year subscription for daily updates. The wireless networking lets you share sonar, waypoints and routes with other EchoMap Ultra 2 or UHD2 chart plotters, eliminating the need for cable connections.

There’s also a screen-­recording feature accessible via the ActiveCaptain app that can capture what’s on the chart-plotter screen to share via text or social media. The Ultra 2 chart plotters are available with a GT56UHD all-in-one transducer that provides Garmin chirp traditional sonar and UHD ClearVu and SideVu scanning images of what’s below and to the sides of the boat. The new series also supports the full lineup of Garmin’s award-­winning LiveScope live-­scanning ­sonar systems. The new models range from $1,899.99 to $3,099.99. To learn more, visit garmin.com/marine . 

• More: Airmar , Electronics , February 2024 , furuno , garmin , JL Audio , raymarine , Simrad , standard horizon

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2022 Fishing Electronics Buyer’s Guide

Whether you’re starting with a blank dash or upgrading an existing suite of electronics, our buyer’s guide has options for your boat and your style of fishing.

Fish-finding and GPS charting technology continues to evolve at a blistering pace. At the high end, integrated multifunction displays provide clearer, more detailed sonar images, lightning-fast processors, and responsive touchscreens. At the entry-level, technology continues to trickle down and value-minded anglers can access high-tech features that were out of reach just a few years ago.

Of the major marine electronics manufacturers, each offers a suite of products to meet the needs of boaters with different budgets and available dash space. Among them, you’ll find slight differences in user interface, available features, and options for growth. Whether you’re starting with a blank dash or upgrading an existing suite of electronics, review our buyer’s guide to compare options and then visit a local retailer to demo them in person.

Simrad offers customizable modular technology that lets you create the perfect sportfishing system with advanced charting, sonar and radio technology, HALO Radar, and fully integrated autopilot. Simrad’s premium NSOevo3S glass bridge systems are suited to larger sportfishing vessels, while the NSS Evo3S multifunction displays are designed for 20- to 40-foot center consoles. The GO series of multi-touch chartplotters are suited for smaller center consoles and bay boats, while the Simrad Cruise is an intuitive,easy-to-use chartplotter.

Simrad NSS EVO3S

Simrad Cruise

Lowrance offers innovative solutions targeted toward inland and coastal fishermen. Their flagship HDS LIVE series offers premium performance for serious freshwater and saltwater anglers and supports revolutionary ActiveTarget Live Sonar. The new Elite FS (Fishing System) series of mid-range, easy-to-use products are perfect for both inland and coastal fishing enthusiasts. The Hook Reveal series is focused on providing easy-to-use fishfinders at great prices.

Lowrance Elite FS

Lowrance HDS LIVE

Lowrance HOOK Reveal

With a history of over 40 years of innovation, Humminbird brings fishfinders, GPS systems, radar, and autopilot to anglers. They offer solutions for all types of freshwater and saltwater anglers with the powerful, top-of-the-line APEX Series, the SOLIX series of 15.4-, 12.1-, and 10.1-inch displays, and the HELIX series of 5- to 15.4-inch chartplotters. Link your Humminbird electronics with a Minn Kota trolling motor to create a “One-Boat Network” with seamless integration and communication.

Humminbird SOLIX G3

Humminbird HELIX

Humminbird APEX

Known for creating user-friendly, intuitive devices, Garmin ’s marine offerings include sophisticated chartplotters and touchscreen multifunction displays, sonar technology, high-definition radar, autopilots, high-resolution mapping, and instrumentation. The flagship GPSMAP series includes 7- to 24-inch multifunction displays, while the EchoMap Plus series offers 4- to 9-inch easy-to-use,easy-to-set-up chartplotter/sonar combos.

Garmin STRIKER Vivid Series

Garmin GPSMAP x3 Series

With a legacy of marine navigation technology spanning over 80 years, Raymarine products are renowned today for their ease of use, rugged design, and reliability. Their comprehensive range includes the powerful Axiom family of multifunction navigation systems and the Element HV series sonar/GPS units along with a wide range of marine radar systems.

Raymarine Element HV

Raymarine Axiom

1 thought on “ 2022 Fishing Electronics Buyer’s Guide ”

The question is …what machine separates one from the other . The technical differences. Why would i purchase a Garmin over a Simrad,

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Best Marine Electronics and Technology Awards 2023

• By Chris Woodward
• February 17, 2023

Welcome to the third-annual Best Elex Awards , which honor innovative marine electronics and technology products that have been reviewed and approved by the editorial team behind the four leading titles in marine media: Boating , Yachting , Cruising World and Salt Water Sportsman . At the first of the year, the nominees were evaluated by our team of eight judges, including the editors-in-chief and electronics editors of the aforementioned brands. In the end, seven products set themselves apart. And the winners are:

• Editors’ Choice: KVH TracNet

Leading Edge Technology: Simrad Halo 2000/3000

Best in navigation: garmin navionics+.

• Best Integrated System: Lowrance HDS Pro w/ Active Imaging/ActiveTarget 2
• Most Innovative for Fishing: Furuno TZtouch3 w/ CHIRP Side-Scan Technology

Best in Sonar: Garmin LiveScope XR

Best in entertainment: kicker kmxl, editors’ choice: kvh tracnet hybrid antennas.

What the Judges Said: “The most impressive feature is the antennas’ ability to seamlessly jump between cellular, Wi-Fi and VSAT networks, all with the lowest-cost routing and user experience in mind.” —David Schmidt, electronics editor, Yachting

Two of our eight judges gave KVH’s TracNet system perfect scores. And what’s not to like? This new system for onboard connectivity just might be as seamless as the internet setup in your home. And it doesn’t require an assortment of disparate parts, complicated connections and multiple bills. TracNet combines satellite, cellular and Wi-Fi under one dome. The system features automatic switching to keep boats connected using the best communication option at all times—without the need for hands-on tuning. The H30 ($18,995), H60 ($27,995) and H90 ($44,995) antennas match boats of 30, 60 and 90 feet, respectively. Paired to a belowdecks unit using an Ethernet power-over-coaxial cable, the H90 can deliver VSAT download speeds as fast as 40 Mbps (with Elite service). Boaters can also expect support for 5G/LTE cellular service where available, as well as the ability to add user-supplied SIM cards for local service. TracNet connects to shore-based Wi-Fi using an integrated bridge for additional speed.

What the Judges Said: “Veteran anglers have long sworn by power-hungry magnetron radars, scorning the advent of pulse-compression radars, for finding flocks of seabirds. But now there’s a pulse-compression radar that may change some minds.” —Jim Hendricks, electronics editor, Salt Water Sportsman and Boating

All the judges commented on the Simrad Halo 3000 Bird+ mode, labeling it innovative and a problem solver. In that mode, the open-array radar focuses all its juice toward finding birds for fishermen. It can reach out to 8 nautical miles, while other pulse-compression units might see flyers at 3 miles. Halo 3000 is available in 4- and 6-foot arrays, and delivers 130 watts for seeing out to 96 nautical miles. Its smaller sister, Halo 2000, is available in 3-, 4- and 6-foot arrays, and offers 50 watts of power for visibility to 72 nautical miles. Both arrays are equipped with ZoneTrack, which allows captains to track up to 50 vessels. Dangerous Target Alerts highlight the range, bearing and heading of other vessels. VelocityTrack shows color-coded targets to help identify threats. Halo 2000 starts at $6,399; the 3000 starts at $8,499.

What the Judges Said: “The big excitement for me is that Garmin has finally combined two excellent products into a single, intuitive interface. Throw in automatic daily updates, and the end user is the real winner here.” —Andrew Parkinson, editor-in-chief, Cruising World

When Garmin purchased marine-chart powerhouse Navionics about six years ago, boaters loved the idea of the two joining forces and the prospect of new navigational tools. And while the evolution took a little time, the process has come full circle with Garmin Navionics+. The all-in-one mapping solution features advanced autorouting, depth-range shading, vibrant colors, a streamlined interface, combined coastal and inland content plus a one-year subscription to daily chart updates through the ActiveCaptain app. Boaters can upgrade to Garmin Navionics Vision+ to add high-resolution relief shading, high-res satellite imagery, aerial photos and more. The charts come preloaded on a variety of new Garmin chart plotters and can be purchased online. Starting prices range from $149.99 to $249.99.

Best Integrated System: Lowrance HDS Pro w/Active Imaging/ActiveTarget 2

What the Judges Said: “HDS Pro delivers full ­networking with bow-to-stern boat control as well as compatibility with Lowrance’s latest live sonar—ActiveTarget 2—and the second generation of Active Imaging. That’s a lot of capability in one package.” —Chris Woodward, editor, Best Marine Electronics and Technology

How many features can you fit into one new multifunction display? If you ask Lowrance , the list appears to be near endless. With its latest system, Lowrance launches the HDS Pro line of multifunction displays, as well as increases the functionality of its side- and down-scan imaging and live sonar. The 1 kW-capable HDS Pro units also deliver full control of trolling motors, autopilots, engines, radar, communications and Power-Pole shallow-water anchors. The MFDs are available with 9-, 10-, 12- or 16-inch SolarMAX IPS HD touchscreens and cost $2,199 to $4,999. The ActiveTarget 2 Live Sonar module and transducer cost $1,649; the module alone costs $799, and the transducer alone costs $1,099. Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducers for Lowrance Ghost trolling motors or transoms cost $399 to $449.

Most Innovative for Fishing: Furuno TZtouch3 w/Chirp Side-Scan Technology

What the Judges Said: “Low-frequency side-scan sonar opens this more-traditional freshwater and inshore-­saltwater product category to offshore fishermen, enabling them to spot fish hundreds of feet away.” —Randy Vance, editor-at-large, Fishing and Marine Group

Side-scan sonar helps anglers see under docks and into submerged trees and weeds, right? Yes, but that’s not all it can do, and offshore fishermen have long wanted a piece of the action. With Furuno ’s latest software update, TZtouch3 users can see structure and fish 750 feet or more off each side of their vessels. Cruisers too can leverage that to find a safe path through coral reefs. To reach that distance, Furuno scans the water at a lower frequency (220 to 240 kHz) than other side-scan sonar brands. While lower-frequency chirps don’t deliver the same crisp returns as higher-frequency transmissions, this new technology aids anglers hoping to find new bottom structure, and yachtsman and sailors hoping to avoid hazards. The software update is free; the transducer costs $900.

What the Judges Said: “Everyone likes a product that can address multiple tasks well, and Garmin’s LiveScope XR does just that. With a single transducer, the user has the ability to adjust the system to see forward, out to the sides or directly beneath a vessel’s hull.” —Patrick Sciacca, editor-in-chief, Yachting

Like side-scan sonar, live sonar initially catered to freshwater and inshore boaters and anglers. But with LiveScope XR, Garmin delivers real-time videolike sonar from lakes out to blue water. In fresh water, LiveScope XR can see up to 500 feet in front of or below the boat; in salt water, that range is 350 feet. The system offers image clarity at close and long ranges simultaneously. The LVS62 transducer can be pointed forward or down manually or turned sideways with the included Perspective Mode Mount. The system includes a GLS 10 black box that mounts beneath a console. With a free software update, the transducer (sold separately) can be added to an existing LiveScope black box. The full system costs $2,999.99; the LVS62 alone costs $2,499.99.

What the Judges Said: “Kicker is truly working hard to deliver great sound in the audio-unfriendly environment that is a boat.” —Kevin Falvey, editor-in-chief, Boating

Innovative was the adjective most commonly used by our judges to describe Kicker ’s latest speakers. The company’s tangential center-cone geometry—also dubbed horn-loaded technology—makes waves among wakeboarders who use uber-powerful tower speakers to push sound to the cockpit and to the rider. But the new Kicker KMXL speakers deliver that same technology to every boater. Kicker says the new coaxials—in 6 ½- and 8-inch sizes as well as 6 by 9 inches—deliver increased performance with optimal sensitivity, power handling and sonic accuracy. The speakers cost $649.99 to $869.99 per pair

• More: Electronics , furuno , garmin , Gear , KICKER , lowrance , simrad

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