TOP PICKS
SaleBestseller No. 1 −13%
Garmin GPSMAP 79sc, Marine GPS Handheld Preloaded With BlueChart g3 Coastal Charts, Rugged Design and Floats in Water
- Rugged, floating, water-resistant (IPX6 — unit level only) handheld GPS with a high-resolution color display and scratch-resistant, fogproof glass.Special Feature:Designed to Float; Accurate Tracking; Increased Memory; Built-in Compass; BlueChart Coverage.Water Resistant: Yes
- Increased memory to save and track 10,000 waypoints, 250 routes and 300 fit activities
- Supports multiple satellite constellations (GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, QZSS and SBAS) for reliable tracking around the world
- Includes preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts
- Built-in 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass shows heading while standing still
SaleBestseller No. 2 −15%
Garmin GPSMAP 79s, Marine GPS Handheld with Worldwide Basemap, Rugged Design and Floats in Water
- Rugged, floating, water-resistant (IPX6 — unit level only) handheld GPS with a high-resolution color display and scratch-resistant, fogproof glass
- Increased memory to save and track 10,000 waypoints, 250 routes and 300 fit activities
- Supports multiple satellite constellations (GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, QZSS and SBAS) for reliable tracking around the world
- Includes worldwide basemap
- Built-in 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass shows heading while standing still
SaleBestseller No. 4 −14%
Garmin 010-02256-00 eTrex 22x, Rugged Handheld GPS Navigator, Black/Navy
- Explore confidently with the reliable handheld GPS
- 2.2" sunlight-readable color display with 240 x 320 display pixels for improved readability
- Preloaded with Topo Active maps with routable roads and trails for cycling and hiking
- Support for GPS and GLONASS satellite systems allows for tracking in more challenging environments than GPS alone
- 8 GB of internal memory for map downloads plus a micro SD card slot.Battery life: up to 25 hours in GPS mode with 2 AA batteries
SaleBestseller No. 5 −7%
Garmin GPS 73, 2.6 inches, Black
- SAILASSIST - Includes several sailing features such as virtual starting line, countdown timers, speed history and tack assist
- LONG BATTERY LIFE - The handheld can operate for 18+ hours on 2 AA batteries
- MARINE FEATURES - Offers marine features such as MOB, marine alarms (off course, anchor drag, etc.), route planning and navigation
- EASY TO USE - Intuitive user interface with dedicated backlit buttons for quick and easy operation
- USER DATA STORAGE - Stores up to 1,000 waypoints and 100 tracks that help you get back to your favorite spots
SaleBestseller No. 6 −26%
Uniden MHS338BT Floating, Handheld Marine VHF Radio, 6-Watts, GPS and Bluetooth, Submersible IPX8, Emergency Strobe & Flashlight, NOAA Weather Alerts, FM Radio, Chargeing Cradle & Li-ion Battery.
- The Uniden MHS338BT is a rugged handheld Marine radio that is rated IPX8 submersible and designed to float. Water activated emergency strobe light and flashlight. Drop-in charging cradle and Li-ion rechargeable battery. Automatic Backlight Switching, white for daylight, amber for night. Integrated GPS, NOAA weather alerts and FM radio, it’s easy to stay connected and alert.
- Full 6 WATT TRANSMIT POWER- Transmits at full power to ensure maximum range. High/LO power level select lets you boost the transmitter power from 1.0W to 2.5W to 6.0W for added transmission distance. GPS (Favorite Position mode). Lets you save your current position as well as manually enter other positions. You can save positions into a directory to return to them as desired.
- BLUETOOTH WIRELESSS - It is also Bluetooth-capable so you can use Uniden's smartphone app (iOS and Android) to set up the radio and to text message other VHF text message capable radios. You can also enter other information such as DSC directory information.
- WATER ACTIVATED EMERGENCY STROBE LIGHT & MOB - Strobe light and distress feature automatically activates when in water. MOB (Man Overboard). Lets you lock onto the current position when a Man Overboard situation occurs. Water-activated automatic MOB is also featured.
- EASY-TO-READ, BACKLIT LCD SCREEN - Large, orange backlit LCD screen displays easy-to-read text messages. Backlight Level (Off + 8 steps). Noise Canceling for both received and transmitted audio. Compass Display. Lets you determine the way you want the radio to display your course - by showing your course and direction or by showing location on a northsouth-east-west display. Automatically auto-plots to a received DSC distress call.
SaleBestseller No. 7 −9%
Garmin eTrex® SE GPS Handheld Navigator, Extra Battery Life, Wireless Connectivity, Multi-GNSS Support, Sunlight Readable Screen
- The 2.2” high-resolution display is easy to read, even in bright sunlight
- Get long battery life of up to 168 hours in standard mode and up to 1,800 hours in expedition mode with 2 field-replaceable AA batteries (not included)
- Pair with the Garmin Explore app on your compatible smartphone for wireless software updates, trip planning, Active Weather, smart notifications and additional mapping
- Get automatic cache updates from Geocaching Live, including descriptions, logs and hints when paired to the Garmin Explore app on your compatible smartphone
- Multi-GNSS support gives access to multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS) to track in more challenging environments than GPS alone
Bestseller No. 8
Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator
- Rugged handheld navigator with preloaded worldwide basemap and 2.2 inch monochrome display
- WAAS enabled GPS receiver with HotFix and GLONASS support for fast positioning and a reliable signal
- Waterproof to IPX7 standards for protection against splashes, rain, etc.
- Support for paperless geocaching and Garmin spine mounting accessories. Power with two AA batteries for up to 20 hours of use (best with Polaroid AA batteries)
- See high and low elevation points or store waypoints along a track (start, finish and high/low altitude) to estimate time and distance between points
SaleBestseller No. 9 −18%
Garmin eTrex 32x, Rugged Handheld GPS Navigator
- Explore confidently with the reliable handheld GPS
- 2.2” sunlight-readable color display with 240 x 320 display pixels for improved readability
- Preloaded with Topo Active maps with routable roads and trails for cycling and hiking
- Support for GPS and GLONASS satellite systems allows for tracking in more challenging environments than GPS alone
- 8 GB of internal memory for map downloads plus a micro SD card slot
BUYING GUIDE
The allure of the sea has beckoned mariners for centuries, but unlike the sailors of old who relied on the stars, modern adventurers have technology on their side. Handheld marine GPS devices provide pinpoint location accuracy, vital data, and navigational charts in a compact form factor, making sea journeys safer and more enjoyable. Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing one:
- Satellite Reception and Coverage:
- A marine GPS should have a fast and reliable satellite connection. Multiple Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) support, such as GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, ensures better accuracy and redundancy.
- Marine Charts & Updates:
- It’s imperative to have access to detailed marine charts that cover your navigation area. Look for devices with pre-loaded charts and the option to update or add more as required. Some models provide auto-updating charts.
- Screen Quality & Size:
- Given the outdoor, bright nature of marine environments, opt for a GPS with a clear, sunlight-readable display. Larger screens allow for better map viewing, but consider device portability too.
- Durability & Waterproofing:
- The marine environment can be harsh. Ensure your GPS is rugged, water-resistant or waterproof (look for IPX ratings), and ideally, it should float if accidentally dropped in water.
- Battery Life:
- Long battery life is essential for extended trips. Some devices use replaceable batteries, while others offer rechargeable packs. Consider your trip duration and the feasibility of recharging when choosing.
- Waypoints & Routes:
- The ability to store numerous waypoints and routes allows you to mark specific locations (like fishing spots) and plan your journey effectively.
- Tidal & Current Information:
- Some advanced marine GPS devices provide real-time tidal and current data, which can be invaluable for navigating tricky waters or planning fishing trips.
- Built-in SOS or Man Overboard (MOB) Features:
- These safety features can be lifesavers in emergencies, allowing you to mark the spot of a person overboard or send out an SOS signal.
- Wireless & Connectivity Features:
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities can be beneficial for sharing routes, connecting to other devices, or even receiving weather updates.
- Additional Sensors:
- Some models come equipped with sensors like barometers and temperature gauges, providing added information about your environment.
- Price & Warranty:
- Marine GPS devices can range widely in price based on features, brand, and chart quality. It’s wise to invest in a reputable brand with good warranty coverage for peace of mind.
The open waters, with their beauty and unpredictability, require mariners to be prepared and informed. A handheld marine GPS, with its array of features tailored for nautical adventures, is an indispensable tool in this regard. As you sail, paddle, or motor your way through the seas, ensure you have a reliable GPS device by your side. Choose wisely, sail safely, and let every voyage be memorable!