Looking for the best boating GPS? In this boating resource guide, we’ll review five of the best boat GPS units this 2022.
Today, thanks to modern advancements such as GPS, people across any body of water can determine their exact location and safely travel towards their destination. In this article, we dive into a comprehensive boat GPS buying guide, which includes how to decide which model is best for your needs.
Boating is fun, and the journey, as they say, is part of the adventure. But the adventure should be about enjoying the scenery along that journey, and not wondering if you are going to hit an obstacle or doubting if you’re going to arrive safely to your destination.
If you have a boat then you certainly need the best boating GPS to accompany you on your adventures.
How Do I Choose A Marine GPS?
Here are some factors to consider before purchasing your Boat GPS.
Maps and Charts
This is the first and most basic thing you should consider when choosing the best bating GPS on the market. Just like in choosing your RV GPS, you should pay attention to the maps and charts that are loaded into the GPS device. Ensure the map bodies of water you will be traveling to are included on the device. You wll also want to chose a GPS that allows you to add maps and has enough memory or a micro SD slot.
Portability
If you’re using your boat GPS for watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, or jet skis, it’s ideal to get a smaller GPS that you can easily transport and store in smaller spaces. For larger boats or watercraft or longer navigation trips, you may wish to choose a heavy-duty device that you can directly mount onto your boat.
Display
The screen size and resolution are important because no matter how accurate your boating GPS is if you can’t see it properly then what’s the point? Make sure that the GPS you choose is clear enough for you to see in direct sunlight as well as while wearing polarized sunglasses.
Related Reading: What GPS Should I Buy For My Boat?
Reliability
Choose a marine GPS device with a high-sensitivity GPS receiver that can connect to multiple satellites so you’ll receive fast, accurate, and reliable information no matter where you are located.
WaterProof
Not all boating GPS devices are built with waterproof materials, however, choosing a device that is waterproof could be to your advantage. Even if you’re traveling on calm waters it is best to get a boating GPS that is durable to withstand different weather conditions and won’t be damaged with a single splash of the water.
Best Boat GPS
Boat GPS surely makes a world of difference to the overall enjoyment of your trip. If you’re looking for the best boat GPS, heads up! We’re here with some of the best units this 2022.
The Garmin STriker 4 w/ Transducer is our pick for the best boat GPS for the money.
The Garmin Striker 4 offers a wide range of use when you're out on the waters. Packed with features that allows you to find fish easier, mark and return to hot spots, docks, and ramps, and share your favorite waypoints and routes with your fellow boaters.
The Pros:- CHIRP sonar
- Built-in high-sensitivity GPS
- Several sonar functions
- Versatile and easy to use
- Pinpoints precise location quickly
- Convenient keypad operation
- Very portable
- The device allows you to monitor your speed
- Allows up to 5,000 waypoints
- Small screen display
Where To Buy:
We choose Humminbird Helix 5 Chirp SI GPS G2 as the best boat GPS and fish finder.
For a fish finder that includes a side and down imaging, the Humminbird Helix 5 Chirp SI GPS G2 is quite the catch since it only costs about $500 compared to most fish finders with the same features but costs you way more money.
The Pros:- Side and down imaging sonar
- Two unique display modes
- Easy push-button controls
- AutoChart Live
- Allows you to create maps and customize charts
- Temperature alarm, freeze frame, split-screen zoom and instant image updates
- Comes with an SD card slot for upgrades
- Screenshot and sonar recording
- Internal GPS chart plotting with UniMap cartography
- No NMEA(National Marine Electronics Association) support
Where To Buy:
The Garmin GPSMAP 78S is our pick for the best boat GPS for small boats.
The GPSMAP 78S comes with multiple features that enable you to navigate across the water with ease and portable enough to bring even on small boats. You can rely on its high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, and HotFix™ satellite prediction to locate your position precisely so you can find your way easily whether you’re under a heavy cover or deep canyons.
The Pros:- Portable and lightweight
- Water-resistant
- It floats
- Bright display
- Tri-axial compass
- You can add maps
- Wireless data transfer with compatible units
- Excellent track navigation
- Small screen display
- Not the best resolution
Where To Buy:
Our pick for the best marine GPS and depth finder is the Garmin EchoMap UHD 94sv.
The Garmin EchoMap UHD 94sv is one of the most trusted boating GPS devices out there. With the GT56 transducer providing both Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar and UHD ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonars. Together they deliver 20% greater range and three frequencies for top performance at all depths.
The Pros:- Easy to install
- Easy to use interface
- Bright, Sunlight-readable 9” touchscreen with keyed assist
- Preloaded U.S. BlueChart® g3 coastal charts
- It has a dual-frequency sonar
- Fast and accurate GPS
- Vivid scanning sonar color palettes easily distinguishes between fish and structure
- Quick-release bail mount for fast and easy mobility
- Quite pricey
Where To Buy:
The Garmin GPSMAP 78sc Handheld GPS is our pick for the best handheld marine GPS.
For boaters and water sports enthusiast who need a portable and rugged GPS, the Garmin GPSMAP 78sc is the perfect companion onboard. With crisp color mapping, a high-sensitivity receiver, this handheld GPS takes recreational navigation to a whole new level.
The Pros:- Made out of reliable and robust materials for long lasting use.
- Includes preloaded U.S. coastal charts
- Value for money
- Waterproof chartplotter
- Floats in water
- High-sensitivity GPS receiver
- Built in 3-axis tilt compensated electronic compass and barometric altimeter
- Bright display screen
- Wireless sharing with Garmin Connect
- Features a microSD card slot for loading additional maps
- Compact and sleek design
- Screen resolution could be improved
Where To Buy:
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Download Your FREE Boating Pre-Departure Checklist
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Aside from GPS you’ll also need a reliable boat anchor to secure and hold your boats steady in place. Head to our post on the best Power Anchors for Pontoon boats. If you’re craving for more adventures on the water why not go Canoeing and Kayaking In New York City!
