Marine GPS

GPS on the high seas

Marine GPS systems are useful for navigation on the water. They can be used by occasional or frequent boaters.

In case of emergency, a GPS allows you to let safety officials know your location. It's also a great tool for fishing. Some systems allow fishers to mark successful fishing locations on their GPS. They can then find that same spot the next time they go out in their boat. Advanced models can also help fishers locate fish.

Some boat GPS systems include alarms. For example, the GPS can notify you if you're in shallow water or if you're going off course.

Some marine GPS units are mounted to a boat. Handheld GPS systems are also available.

Must-Have Features

• It must be waterproof.
• You must be able to read the screen in extreme sunlight.
• If you're a fisher, consider getting a GPS that allows you to locate fish.

Major Considerations

• Can you use the GPS if you have gloves on? Many people who work on a boat wear gloves.
• Do you want the GPS to be mounted to the boat or would you prefer it to be handheld? If it's handheld, you could use if off the water as well.
• Will the size of the GPS work with the measurements of where you want to mount the GPS on the boat?

Top Manufacturers

• Pioneer
• Magellan
• Garmin

Common Accessories or Add-Ons

• Mount
• Carrying case

Price Range

These GPS systems start at around $275.

Summary

Marine GPSs are beneficial for casual boaters, as well as people who rely on boating for their income. As with any technology, make sure you don't over-invest in features that you might not use.