Navigating with Ease: Choosing the Best Marine GPS for You
Having a reliable GPS on board can make navigating your boat much easier and safer. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to determine which marine GPS is right for your needs and budget. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when shopping for a quality boating GPS.
Display Size and Resolution
One of the most important features of a marine GPS is the display. You'll want a screen that is easy to view in direct sunlight. Options include:
- 5" displays - Best for smaller boats and tighter budgets
- 7" displays - Ideal balance of screen size and affordability
- 10" or larger - Provides maximum visibility for larger vessels
Higher resolution screens (800x480 or above) will show charts and details more clearly. Touchscreen operation is also convenient on the water.
Preloaded Maps and Charts
Many GPS units come preloaded with detailed maps and charts for coastal and inland waterways. This saves you from having to manually load them later. Options include:
- U.S. coastal and inland maps
- Regional or local maps
- Lake charts
- Worldwide basemaps
Look for options that match how and where you boat. Also consider a GPS that allows you to upload additional detailed chart cards for custom coverage.
Connectivity
Many marine GPS systems allow you to pair with smartphones, tablets, radars and other devices for expanded capabilities:
- Bluetooth - Wirelessly transfer routes, waypoints and autopilot control
- WiFi - Get weather, email and internet access on the water
- NMEA 2000 - Interface with onboard boat networks and multi-function displays
Consider how much connectivity you need when choosing a model.
Key Features
Other helpful features found on marine GPS units include:
- Waypoints - Mark fishing spots, docks and other points of interest
- Routes - Plan trips and share routes with autopilot
- Sonar - View depth readings and underwater structure on-screen
- Distress call - One-touch access to signal for emergency assistance
Prioritize the features that will be most useful for you on the water.
With the right GPS by your side, navigating your boat can be smooth sailing. Consider display, maps, connectivity and key features to find the perfect marine GPS for your needs and budget.
Must-Have Features for Boating GPS Units
A reliable GPS is essential gear for marine navigation and safety. When choosing a quality boating GPS, there are certain features that are absolutely vital to have onboard.
Waterproofing
Since it will be exposed to the elements, a marine GPS must be waterproof. Look for units with an IPX7 waterproof rating or higher, indicating it can withstand immersion in 1 meter or more of water for 30 minutes.
Waypoints
Waypoints allow you to mark and save specific locations that you can navigate to later. Useful waypoints include:
- Channel markers
- Hazard areas
- Fishing spots
- Docks
Quality units store at least 1,000 waypoints with descriptive names and coordinates.
Tracks and Routes
Tracks show where your boat has travelled, while routes map out courses between waypoints. Features like:
- Saving/editing routes
- Setting route alarms if off-course
- Syncing routes with autopilot
Let you navigate more efficiently and safely.
Navigation Aids
Navaids like GPS Status, Course Deviation Indicator (CDI) and Cross Track Error info help you actively navigate to stay on route. Alarm settings alert you if you go off course.
Distress Calling
One-touch access to send a digital distress call with your location coordinates speeds assistance in an emergency situation.
Detailed Mapping
Preloaded coastal and inland maps let you navigate with maximum detail. Useful map features include:
- Depth contours
- Hazards
- Marinas
- Land elevations
Look for mapping that covers your typical boating grounds.
Connectivity
Connectivity | Benefits |
---|---|
WiFi | Access weather data, email and web offshore |
Bluetooth | Sync waypoints/routes with smart devices and autopilot |
NMEA 2000 | Integrate with onboard vessel networks |
The right mix allows you to get the most from your GPS.
Don't leave the dock without these essential marine GPS features on board. They can mean the difference between a pleasant day on the water and a navigation nightmare.

How to Pick the Perfect Chartplotter for Your Vessel
A chartplotter is an essential navigation tool for any boat. This guide will help you select the best model for your on-the-water needs.
Display Size
Choose a display sized appropriately for your vessel:
- Under 30 feet: 7-9 inch display
- 30-45 feet: 9-12 inch display
- 45+ feet: 12+ inch display
Bigger screens make charts easier to read offshore, but compact units work well for smaller boats and inland cruising.
Touchscreen vs. Keypad
Touchscreen chartplotters are intuitive and convenient, especially in rainy or rough conditions. Keypad models cost less but can be more challenging to operate.
Chart Compatibility
Verify the chartplotter is compatible with the map and chart formats you need, such as:
- C-MAP
- Navionics
- NOAA
- NV charts
Some allow you to use different chart formats simultaneously.
Preloaded Maps
Models with preloaded regional or coastal maps means you won't have to manually load them later. Look for coverage suited for how/where you boat.
Connectivity
Choose a plotter with the connections needed to integrate with onboard systems:
- NMEA 0183 - Interface with autopilot, AIS, instruments
- NMEA 2000 - Plug into vessel data networks
- WiFi - Get weather/email offshore
Key Features
Desirable extras to have include:
- AIS compatibility - View surrounding vessel traffic
- Radar overlay - See radar imagery on chart
- Fishfinder - View depth contours and structure below
- Entertainment integration - Control audio from the plotter
Budget
Chartplotter prices range widely based on features. Expect to spend:
- $500 - $1,000 for mid-range models
- $1,000 - $2,000 for advanced plotters
- $2,000+ for high-end multi-function displays
Consider how you navigate and your connectivity needs to pick the perfect chartplotter for safe travels on the water.
Top Boating GPS Models for Under $500
Quality marine GPS units packed with navigation features are available even on a budget under $500. Here are some top-rated models to consider in this price range.
Garmin GPSMAP 78sc
The GPSMAP 78sc is a versatile, compact unit suited for small boats. Key features include:
- 5” grayscale display with high-sensitivity GPS
- Preloaded U.S. coastal and lake charts
- Waypoints/tracks with name, icon and depth display
- Waterproof and floatable
Starting around $350, it provides core navigation tools at a lower cost.
Lowrance Hook-4x
This fishfinder/chartplotter combo is a top choice for anglers. It offers:
- LED-backlit 4.3” display
- Built-in basemap and enhanced U.S. lake charts
- CHIRP sonar and downscan imaging
- Waypoints, tracks, routes
Priced under $500, it's great for inland fishing and coastal trips.
Raymarine Axiom 7 RV
Display Size | 7" LED backlit |
---|---|
Resolution | 800 x 480 WXGA |
Key Features | RealVision 3D, WiFi, AIS, smartphone app control |
The Axiom 7 RV packs premium navigation and connectivity into an affordable 7” touchscreen. It starts around $480.
Simrad GO9 XSE
With a bright 9” touch display, the GO9 XSE offers premium quality below $500. Highlights include:
- C-MAP charts optimized for inland/coastal navigation
- Built-in 10Hz GPS and GLONASS
- WiFi and Bluetooth
- Waypoints, routes, trip planning tools
It's an excellent chartplotter and instrument display in one.
Garmin GPSMAP 86sc
This compact yet powerful handheld GPS sports a high-sensitivity receiver and 5” display. Notable features:
- Preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts
- Built-in 3-axis tilt compass
- Robust tracking and navigation tools
- Water rating of IPX7
It starts around $350, providing reliable performance for recreational boats.
Any of these quality GPS models will serve you well on the water without breaking the budget.

Going Digital: Making the Switch from Paper Charts to Chartplotters
More boaters are trading traditional paper charts for the convenience and capabilities of digital chartplotters. Here is what you need to know when making the switch.
Get Compatible Charts
Chartplotters require electronic charts from sources like C-MAP, Navionics, NOAA, and others. Verify your plotter works with the chart formats you need for your cruising grounds.
Load Detailed Maps
While some units come preloaded with basic charts, you’ll likely need to purchase and install more detailed map cards or chips for your region. Offshore cruisers may need worldwide chart coverage.
Update Charts Regularly
Just like paper charts, digital charts need ongoing updates as shorelines, navigation aids, depths and other details change. Sign up for supplier update programs to stay current.
Back Up Your Charts
Save an extra copy of your electronic charts on a computer or external drive in case your plotter fails and needs factory reset. This prevents losing all your chart data and settings.
Learn the Technology
Get familiar with key chartplotter functions like:
- Panning, zooming and chart orientation
- Measuring distances/bearings
- Viewing vessel position, heading, course
- Waypoints, routes, tracks
Practice using the plotter before relying on it navigationally.
Enable Safety Features
Set danger zone alarms, off-course alarms, anchor drift alarms and other tools to enhance navigational safety.
Integrate Instruments
Connect your plotter to onboard data networks, instruments and autopilot for expanded functionality via NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000 or SeaTalk interfaces.
Add Supplemental Sensors
Add supplemental sensors like AIS receivers, radars, satellite weather, cameras and more. Overlay their data directly onto your charts for enhanced situational awareness.
Carry Backup Charts
Even with a chartplotter, always keep paper backup charts on board in case of power loss or equipment issues. Make sure they are current.
Following proper steps when switching to digital charts ensures you’ll enjoy safer, easier navigating onboard.
Similar products
Benefits of Amazon Prime for Buying Boating GPS and Chartplotters
An Amazon Prime membership provides several useful benefits when shopping for marine electronics like GPS units and chartplotters for your boat.
Free Two-Day Shipping
Amazon Prime offers free two-day shipping on hundreds of thousands of items, including most major marine electronics brands. This means you can often get your new GPS or chartplotter delivered quickly instead of having to wait over a week.
Free Returns
Prime members get free returns on eligible items within 30 days of delivery. This makes it risk-free to order marine electronics and send back anything that doesn't meet your needs - no return shipping costs.
Try Before You Buy
Select electronics are eligible for Amazon's Prime Try Before You Buy program. This lets you try out products like handheld GPS units for a week before committing to purchase them. It ensures you get the right model before buying.
Lightning Deals
Amazon Prime members get 30 minute early access to limited time Lightning Deals on products. This lets you snap up discounted marine electronics models before inventory sells out.
Streaming Entertainment
Prime includes access to Prime Video, Amazon Music and more. You can download movies, TV shows and music to entertain yourself offline while out on your boat.
Overall, an Amazon Prime membership removes hassles when buying marine electronics for your boat. The shipping and return benefits let you conveniently get products delivered fast and send back anything that isn't right for your vessel.
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Find The Best Boating GPS Units & Chartplotters Reviews And Ratings
Here are some of the best Boating GPS Units & Chartplotters reviews and ratings available online:
- Revain: This website offers reviews and ratings of Boating GPS Units & Chartplotters. Users can read about the features and benefits of different products, including SonarChartTM 1 foot HD bathymetry map that reflects ever-changing conditions.
- Amazon: Amazon's Best Sellers list provides a comprehensive list of the most popular products based on sales. Users can find the best Marine GPS Units & Chartplotters, including Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 64Cv, Garmin GT15M Transducer, and C-MAP Discover North America Lakes US/Canada Map Card for Marine GPS Navigation.
- EVDFoot: This website offers reviews of the top marine GPS chartplotters available in 2021. Users can find the best Boating GPS Units & Chartplotters based on expert opinions and user reviews.
- BetterBoat: This website provides a list of the best GPS for boats, including Raymarine Axiom Touchscreen, Simrad Go7 XSE Chart plotter, Raymarine DragonFly 7 Pro, and Garmin Echomap CHIRP 54 CV.
- TrakkitGPS: This website offers a roundup of the 11 best marine GPS chartplotters available in 2023. Users can find the most feature-rich design and affordable Boating GPS Units & Chartplotters, including the Simrad GO9 XSE.
- J.D. Power: This website provides a buying guide for the 6 best boat GPS systems in 2020. Users can find the best boat GPS under $150, including Garmin Striker 4 with Transducer, 3.5" GPS Fishfinder with CHIRP Traditional Transducer and Garmin Striker Plus 4 with Dual-Beam.

What Are The Top-Rated Boating GPS Units And Chartplotters For 2023?
Based on the search results, here are some of the top-rated boating GPS units and chartplotters for 2023:
- Simrad GO9 XSE
- Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 64Cv
- Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 64Cv 6" Chartplotter
- Garmin GT15M Transducer
- JUAN Baby
- Simrad GO7 XSR - 7-inch Chartplotter with Active Imaging 3-in-1
- Simrad Cruise 7-7-inch GPS Chartplotter with 83/200 Transducer
- GPSMAP 8612xsv MFD/Sonar, US+Can+Bahamas
- Raymarine Axiom Touchscreen
- Garmin Striker 4 with Transducer, 3.5" GPS Fishfinder with CHIRP Traditional Transducer
These products have been highly rated by users and experts for their features, performance, and reliability. Users can choose from a range of options based on their budget, needs, and preferences.