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Marine chartplotters and GPS units are the digital brains of modern boating. Think of them as your vessel’s dashboard navigator: they read satellite signals to pinpoint your location and overlay that position on electronic charts, so you always know where you are, where hazards lurk, and how to get where you’re going. Whether you’re day cruising, coastal hopping, or chasing fish offshore, a reliable chartplotter with integrated GPS takes the guesswork out of navigation. It’s like switching from paper maps to an intelligent co-pilot that never sleeps. With clear mapping, route planning, depth contours (via sonar-equipped models), and integration with other onboard systems, these devices make marine travel simpler, safer, and a lot more fun.
A chartplotter displays a detailed marine chart and shows your boat’s real-time position, heading, and track. You can drop waypoints, build routes, measure distances in miles, and zoom in on tight channels or crowded marinas. The best units let you customize data overlays—speed, depth (via sonar), tides, and more—so you see what matters at a glance. Modern chartplotters also support vector charts with depth shading, automatic route suggestions, and advanced features like anchoring aids and hazard highlights. If you’ve ever wished for a crystal-clear window into what’s ahead, this is it.
GPS (Global Positioning System) receives satellite signals to pinpoint your location within a few feet. On the water, it’s indispensable: fog rolls in, landmarks vanish, and currents push you off course without asking permission. A marine GPS paired to your chartplotter feeds constant position updates, so your track line tells a clear story—where you’ve been and where you’re going. Some systems add a dedicated heading sensor for snappier boat orientation at slow speeds, which makes a big difference when threading narrow fairways or docking.
Marine electronics have leapt forward in the past few years. Displays are brighter and sharper, chart data is richer, and integration with radar, AIS, VHF, and even autopilots is smoother than ever. If your current unit struggles in sunlight, takes ages to boot, or doesn’t play nicely with your other gear, an upgrade could transform your time on the water. You don’t have to be a tech wizard to see the benefits—just imagine cutting through glare, gliding along a crisp route line, and getting timely alerts before trouble finds you.
Good navigation is safe navigation. A modern chartplotter can flag shallow areas, post warnings near hazards, and overlay AIS targets so you see nearby vessels, their speed, and heading. Pair it with radar and you’ll “see” through fog and rain. Add an autopilot and you’ll hold a course with confidence while keeping hands free for lines and lookout. It’s like adding extra eyes and a steady hand to your helm, especially when the weather turns or traffic thickens.
Plotting clean, efficient routes helps you save fuel and time. With tide and current data layered onto charts, you can plan smarter departures and arrivals. Live depth readings (via compatible sonar) help you avoid detours and unnecessary backtracking. Over a season, those little gains add up—fewer miles wandering, more miles enjoying.
Shopping for marine electronics can feel like docking in a crosswind—doable, but easier with a plan. Start by understanding the main categories: standalone GPS, dedicated chartplotters, and multifunction displays (MFDs). Each suits different boats, budgets, and ambitions on the water.
Standalone GPS units provide precise positioning, basic navigation, and waypoint management without full chartplotter functionality. They’re compact, affordable, and ideal as backups or for small craft where space is tight. While you won’t get full electronic charts on many basic models, they can still guide you along preloaded routes and help you stay on bearing. If you just want simple, bulletproof navigation and don’t need sonar or networking, this is a no-fuss option.
MFDs are the Swiss Army knife of marine electronics. One screen can handle charts, sonar, radar, AIS, engine data, cameras—you name it. They’re designed to network with sensors and other displays, making them perfect as a boat’s central command. Choose an MFD if you want to scale up over time: you can start with charts and GPS, then add a transducer, radar dome, or autopilot down the line. For serious cruising and fishing, an MFD gives you room to grow without repainting your entire helm.
These units combine full chartplotter mapping with built-in sonar capabilities. Anglers love them because you can navigate to a waypoint, then switch to split-screen sonar to find structure, bait, and fish arches. With CHIRP traditional sonar, side imaging, and down imaging options, these combos bring the underwater world into focus. If you’re chasing bite windows, being able to “see” down to hundreds of feet—and around structure to either side—gives you a serious edge.
Comparing specs? Here’s where the rubber meets the road. Display size, brightness, mapping options, sonar capability, and networking support will shape your day-to-day experience more than anything else. Pick the features that align with how and where you boat, and you’ll thank yourself every trip.
Screen size drives usability. On smaller consoles, a 7-inch unit can feel just right; on larger helms, 9-inch to 12-inch displays provide room for split screens without squinting. Look for high brightness ratings and anti-glare coatings so you can read the screen in full sun. Wide viewing angles help when you’re standing off-center at the helm. If you run in rough chop, bigger icons and clear menus reduce fumbles when the boat is bouncing.
Great mapping makes good decisions effortless. Choose coverage that fits where you cruise, with rich detail for harbors, channels, and marinas. Advanced features like relief shading, aerial photos of tricky approaches, and tides and currents overlays turn a map into a mission plan. Consider whether you prefer built-in charts or expandable map cards, and check if updates are seamless so your data stays fresh.
Networking lets devices talk. With common marine networks, you can display engine data, get heading from a compass sensor, control an autopilot, or share waypoints across multiple screens. If future upgrades are on your radar—literally—make sure the unit supports the connections you’ll need. Also look for Wi‑Fi or Bluetooth to sync routes from your phone or tablet and to update software without extra cables.
Sonar turns your chartplotter into an underwater scout. CHIRP traditional sonar uses a sweep of frequencies for cleaner target separation—useful for spotting fish holding tight to structure. Down imaging provides photo-like detail directly below the boat, great for identifying brush piles, ledges, and wrecks. Side imaging scans left and right, revealing structure and bait off to the sides so you can cover more water in fewer passes. Pay attention to transducer compatibility; a good transducer is like a high-quality lens on a camera.
Pairing your chartplotter with an autopilot lets you follow precise routes with fewer course corrections. It’s not a replacement for a helmsman, but it’s a fantastic helper when you’re short on hands. AIS overlays add real-time awareness of nearby vessels, showing their speed and heading. Together, these tools reduce workload and boost confidence, especially in busy waterways or poor visibility.
No two boats—or boaters—are alike. Match your electronics to your hull and habit, and you’ll get more satisfaction per mile. Here’s a quick way to think it through by boat type and primary activity.
Space is tight and time is precious. A 7-inch or 9-inch combo unit with built-in sonar is a sweet spot—compact, bright, and quick to operate. You’ll want clear charts, fast startup, and simple menus. A rugged touchscreen with a few physical keys for zoom and menu access is ideal when you’re bouncing around. Add a transducer that reads cleanly at planing speeds, and you’re set for sandbars, coves, and quick harbor hops.
For sailboats, efficiency and clarity rule. Consider a networked MFD around 9 inches or larger near the helm, possibly paired with a repeater below. Integration with wind instruments, AIS, and an autopilot is key. Look for low power draw modes and crisp night palettes. A dedicated heading sensor improves map orientation at slow speeds—handy when you’re ghosting into a marina in light air.
Fishing calls for target-rich screens. A 9-inch to 12-inch chartplotter/sonar combo with CHIRP, down imaging, and side imaging is a strong foundation. Add a high-quality transducer mounted in the right spot for clean returns. If you troll, consider radar and AIS for safety on long runs. Split-screen with chart and sonar keeps you on structure while following your plotted track line back to productive spots.
A clean installation is the difference between “works” and “works flawlessly.” Good mounting, tidy wiring, and solid transducer placement pay for themselves the first time conditions get bumpy. If you’re DIY‑inclined, plan the layout before drilling anything; if not, a pro installer can save you time and headaches.
Mount the display where your eyes naturally fall when steering. On most helms, that means front and center, slightly below eye level. Use a bracket or flush mount that keeps the screen steady and angled to reduce glare. Leave a few inches of clearance around vents and cable runs, and make sure you can still hit key switches and wheel without reaching over the unit. If you run at night, try a quick test to ensure the dimmed screen won’t reflect off the windshield.
Marine electronics want clean, stable power. Run direct power cables with appropriate fusing, and avoid sharing circuits with noisy loads. Use marine‑grade connectors and keep runs as short and tidy as possible. A proper ground helps kill interference that can scramble sonar returns. If you add multiple devices, consider a dedicated fuse block and label each feed so troubleshooting later is a breeze.
For sonar to shine, the transducer needs smooth, bubble‑free water flow. On transom mounts, place it low enough to stay in the water at speed but not so low that it throws a rooster tail. Keep it away from strakes and steps that create turbulence. Thru‑hull and in‑hull options can provide exceptional readings, especially on bigger boats—consult your hull’s layup and choose accordingly. A small adjustment of just an inch or two can make a night-and-day difference.
Picking the perfect unit doesn’t require a crystal ball—just a clear understanding of your needs and a sensible budget. Start with how you actually boat: short day trips, long coastal runs, or serious fishing. Then choose the size, features, and expandability that match that picture.
Set a budget that covers the full system: display, transducer (if needed), mounting, wiring, and chart updates. Great value doesn’t always mean the lowest price; it means the right capabilities without paying for features you won’t use. Look for bundles that include a transducer or chart card—these packages can stretch your dollars further.
Think ahead. Even if you only need charts today, you might want sonar, radar, or AIS next season. Pick a platform that plays well with common networks and accessories so you’re not boxed in. Check whether the unit shares waypoints with other displays, supports route syncing from mobile apps, and takes common map cards for easy updates.
When waves hit, user interface matters. Favor clear icons, logical menus, and responsive touch control. Physical keys for zoom and quick functions are invaluable with wet fingers or gloves. If possible, try a demo in person—what looks fine on paper can feel sluggish or clunky in use. Your future self will thank you for choosing a design that feels natural from day one.
The big names continue to push boundaries with brighter screens, tighter integration, and smarter charts. While exact model availability changes, these brands are reliable pillars in the marine electronics world and are commonly compared by savvy buyers looking for the best deal.
Garmin is known for intuitive interfaces, robust charting, and wide accessory support. Their chartplotter and MFD lines often bundle excellent sonar capabilities and plug‑and‑play networking. If you value ease of use, fast map redraws, and a vibrant ecosystem of add‑ons—from radars to transducers—Garmin is a strong contender for any helm.
Raymarine’s MFDs are praised for clean design, crisp displays, and smooth radar and AIS overlays. Sailors and cruisers often lean toward Raymarine for autopilot integration and polished sailing features. If you’re building a unified helm with radar, thermal cameras, and sailing data pages, Raymarine makes it feel cohesive and refined.
Lowrance is a favorite among freshwater and inshore anglers, offering powerful sonar tools and feature‑rich fishfinder combos at friendly prices. Simrad, tailored more to offshore and cruising markets, delivers strong networking and high-end MFD options. Both share advanced sonar tech and clear charting, making them compelling for anglers and powerboaters alike.
Once your chartplotter or MFD is in place, accessories can elevate the entire system. Start with what boosts safety and situational awareness, then layer in tools that fit your boating style—whether that’s early‑morning trolling runs or sunset cruises to a favorite anchorage.
Radar extends your “vision” when fog or darkness closes in, painting coastlines and targets around you. AIS overlays add vessel identity, speed, and heading to the chart, making busy channels less stressful. Integrating a VHF with DSC lets you drop a digital breadcrumb to your exact position in an emergency. Together, these tools turn your display into a command center.
If the display is mounted under a T‑top or inside a cabin, an external GPS antenna can strengthen your signal. A dedicated heading sensor stabilizes boat orientation at low speeds, keeping the chart aligned even when you’re drifting or docking. It’s a subtle upgrade that delivers a smoother, more precise feel every time you glance at the screen.
Fresh chart data keeps you sharp. Consider map cards with detailed coverage, relief shading, and satellite imagery to make approaches more intuitive. Subscription options often include periodic updates and value‑add layers like tides and currents. Keeping charts up to date is one of the simplest ways to boost safety without changing any hardware.
Getting the right unit at the right price is part timing, part research. Because marine electronics frequently bundle with transducers or chart cards, those package deals can deliver extra value. Comparing prices, features, and warranty terms side by side helps you see which options truly fit your budget and use case.
Look for seasonal sales around boat shows and the start of boating season. Bundles that include a transducer or upgraded chart pack can save a tidy sum compared to buying pieces separately. If you’re building a networked helm, multi‑unit discounts or radar-plus-display packages often offer compelling savings.
Don’t get dazzled by specs alone. A brighter screen, a more responsive interface, and crisp sonar returns can outweigh minor differences in processor speed or storage. Compare what you’ll actually use: screen size, chart coverage, sonar type, and networking options. Then check real‑world feedback on reliability and ease of use—few things cost more than a “cheap” device that frustrates you on every trip.
Before you buy, confirm warranty length and what’s covered. Check that software updates are easy to install and that replacement parts (like transducers and cables) are readily available. Good support is peace of mind—especially if you’re planning longer trips or outfitting your boat for the season.
Like any critical equipment, chartplotters and GPS units reward a little TLC. Keep software current, clean the screen properly, and inspect connections periodically. A few simple habits ensure your gear stays sharp when you need it most.
Updating firmware can fix bugs, improve performance, and add features. Chart updates ensure your data reflects the latest navigational changes. Many modern units support wireless updates, which makes it painless to stay current. Schedule a quick check before big trips so you’re not doing it at the dock while friends tap their feet.
Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the display and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage coatings. Inspect gaskets and covers so spray and rain don’t find their way inside. If you trailer your boat, a snug screen cover prevents scratches and reduces UV exposure when parked. Treat your display like you would a premium camera lens—it’ll reward you with years of crisp visibility.
Even seasoned boaters can stumble on setup and selection. Steering clear of a few common pitfalls keeps your investment paying dividends instead of headaches.
A screen that looks great indoors can wash out in direct sun. Prioritize brightness and anti‑glare performance if you run an open helm. Also consider how the interface looks at a quick glance—big, legible data fields beat tiny fonts when the boat is moving fast and the chop is up.
Poor grounding or shared circuits can introduce interference that degrades sonar clarity and can even cause reboots. Give your electronics clean power with proper fuses and tidy runs. If you see odd sonar artifacts or glitches, double‑check grounds and separate noisy loads from sensitive devices.
Marine chartplotters and GPS units are more than gadgets—they’re your on‑water allies, turning complex navigation into calm, confident decision‑making. From compact combos for day boats to fully networked MFDs for cruising and serious fishing, there’s a solution for every helm and budget. Focus on what matters: a bright, readable screen; accurate charts; the right sonar for your waters; and room to grow with networking. Compare offers, look for smart bundles, and choose a unit that makes every mile safer and smoother. With the right setup, you won’t just get there—you’ll enjoy every moment along the way.
| Marine Chartplotters & GPS | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Garmin Gpsmap 923 Non Sonar Chartplotter | £ 1.220,- | |
| Garmin Gpsmap 1223 Non Solar Chartplotter | £ 2.350,- |
