Check out the latest in on-the-water technology
As boating enthusiasts, we are always on the lookout for the latest advancements in marine technology that can improve our on-the-water experience. Several exciting developments in recent years have changed the game for boaters, from navigation systems to propulsion technology. In our latest article, we will explore the latest and greatest in marine tech, giving you a glimpse into the cutting-edge innovations reshaping the industry.
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The Garmin inReach Mini Marine Bundle
The inReach Mini marine bundle from Garmin offers a compact and efficient solution for boaters who prioritize safety on the water. This small device provides two-way messaging, interactive SOS, and basic navigation capabilities through the global Iridium satellite network, giving you a reliable safety margin in case of an emergency. But despite its impressive safety features, the inReach Mini marine bundle doesn’t sacrifice convenience for size. With a small mount and wireless connectivity, it seamlessly integrates with compatible chart plotters to provide hassle-free communication and power via a 12-volt cable.
A subscription is required to use this device with the Iridium network.
Icom M510
Unlike traditional VHF radios, the M510, allows you to connect up to three iOS or Android devices via the RS-M500 app and use them as wireless microphones or intercoms, providing an unprecedented level of versatility and convenience. Moreover, the M510 boasts advanced features such as built-in GPS and available AIS, setting it apart from other VHF radios in the market. Despite its extensive feature set, the M510 maintains a compact and space-saving design, measuring just 6.9 inches wide, 4.3 inches high, and 2.1 inches deep, requiring only half the mounting depth of some VHFs. And that’s not all; the M510 is also IPS68-protected and built to MIL-STD-810 G specifications, ensuring its durability and longevity in harsh marine environments.
Safety & Security
ACR Electronics ResQLink View Personal Locator Beacon
The ResQLink View is a personal locator beacon that’s simple to use and doesn’t require a subscription. It comes with a digital display that shows your location and live status, so you can trust it to work when you need it most. Whether you’re on land, at sea, or in the air, the ResQLink View uses GPS and powerful signals to quickly and accurately transmit your location to a worldwide network of search and rescue satellites. It also has built-in strobes to help rescuers find you at night or in low visibility conditions. To activate the beacon, simply deploy the antenna, press the on button, and it will guide rescuers to within 100 meters or less of your location.
AtlasTrax USA – Worldwide GPS
AtlasTrax offers a small, waterproof GPS tracker called MiniTrax that is portable and can run on batteries or be hardwired. MiniTrax is great for boat safety and theft recovery and is often required by insurance companies. When it detects movement, you will get an email or text alert. MiniTrax provides data on mileage, trip length, latitude, longitude, heading, and speed. It is suitable for boats, planes, jet skis, ATVs, RVs, golf carts, snowmobiles, trailers, and construction equipment. MiniTrax™ is fully waterproof and provides daily battery reports. With the help of a message handling server, you can access all the trips made by the MiniTrax tracker, and you can view the boat’s precise location on a website.
You can integrate MiniTrax with AtlasAlarm, a boat alarm that will notify you if alarm sensors are activated or if your boat is stolen. AtlasAlarm includes a 60-foot cable wrap, door hatch, and canvas sensor that will activate a loud siren if someone attempts to steal your boat.
Fish Finders
ECHOMAP™ UHD 94sv
The ECHOMAP UHD 94sv fish finder/chartplotter combo offers top-of-the-line features to help you find more fish. Its 9″ touchscreen with keyed assist is bright and easy to read in sunlight. The included GT56 transducer provides Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar, Ultra High-Definition ClearVü, and SideVü scanning sonars with 20% greater range and three frequencies for excellent performance at any depth. Vivid color palettes make it easy to distinguish targets and structures. The combo comes preloaded with BlueChart g3 coastal charts with Garmin and Navionics data. The quick-release bail mount makes it easy to take with you. NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 network support provides engine data, sensor connection, and autopilot integration. The ECHOMAP UHD 94sv even works with the Force trolling motor for full control from the screen, including routing to waypoints and following tracks.
HELIX 7 CHIRP SI GPS G4
The Humminbird HELIX 7 CHIRP SI GPS G4 fish finder boasts advanced features like CHIRP Side Imaging, CHIRP Down Imaging, Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar, AutoChart Live, Internal GPS, and Humminbird Basemap. Its 7″ high-definition display provides the clearest view and many pre-loaded split screen options, ensuring you’ll never miss a fish.
Audio
Clarion CMSP Speakers
If you’re in the market for a high-quality onboard entertainment system that goes beyond sound, Clarion’s new CMSP speakers are definitely worth considering. These speakers not only deliver clear and vibrant audio, but also come equipped with built-in RGB LED lighting that can help set the tone and create a captivating atmosphere for your guests. They are also built with materials and finishes designed to withstand the elements and the impacts of life on the water, ensuring longevity and durability.
Apollo WB675 stereo
The Apollo WB675 stereo from Garmin offers a seamlessly integrated entertainment experience based on Fusion’s True-Marine design philosophy. It has undergone rigorous testing to ensure high-level protection against salt fog, temperature, vibration, and UV.
Designed to save space, the Apollo WB675 can be easily concealed in the dash or mounted in various areas like storage lockers, helm consoles, and other hidden compartments.
When connected to an NMEA 2000® network and an appropriate speed sensor installed, the stereo’s settings menu enables you to select Speed vs. Volume, which automatically adjusts the audio volume based on your boat’s speed. This means that the volume will increase as the boat goes faster and decrease when the boat slows down. The stereo is compatible with speed sources such as speed over ground, speed through water, engine RPM, or wind speed.
A.I.
Artificial intelligence has revolutionized boat technology, particularly in navigation. Boats equipped with AI can now navigate through rough waters with greater accuracy and safety. Many companies are integrating intelligent navigation system that employs AI algorithms to analyze real-time data from different sensors. These systems provide up-to-date information about the boat’s surroundings, enhancing safety and ease of navigation.
SEA.AI
SEA.AI Offshore is an innovative system that uses thermal and optical cameras to detect floating objects early. This advanced technology can identify unsignaled crafts, containers, buoys, inflatables, kayaks, and even people overboard, which conventional systems like Radar or AIS may miss. SEA.AI ensures a higher level of safety by detecting floating obstacles that can pose a threat to vessels.
INav4u Wayfinder
iNav4u’s Wayfinder acts as a virtual crew member that manages sensor data, eliminating the need to constantly monitor instruments and calculate data. By reducing complexity and the risk of human error, Wayfinder improves situational awareness and safety. It can detect potential issues in advance and provide suggestions for corrective measures, ensuring that problems are addressed before they become serious.
The latest technology has revolutionized the way we interact with boats and the water. With ongoing advancements, we can expect even more exciting and innovative technologies to emerge, making boating safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable than ever before. Whether you are an experienced boater or just starting, embracing the latest technology can enhance your boating experience and provide endless opportunities to explore the open waters.
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