Finding the ideal chartplotter setup for small boats requires careful consideration of both navigation devices and accessories like mounts and protective cases. This guide highlights top-rated handheld chartplotters, durable mounts, and essential maintenance products designed to enhance marine navigation and device longevity. Below is a summary table of selected products carefully chosen for their reliability, versatility, and compatibility with small boat requirements.
| Product | Brand | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Garmin GPSMAP 86Sci | Garmin | Floating handheld GPS, button operation, preloaded BlueChart G3 Coastal Charts, satellite communication, stream boat data |
| VAUBORTTI Aluminum 1.5” Ball Mount | VAUBORTTI | Marine-grade aluminum, extended dual arm (14.76″), 4 pivot points, oversized wingnut for easy adjustments |
| VAUBORTTI Aluminum Ball Mount | VAUBORTTI | Die-cast aluminum alloy, powder coating, free rotation, 5.7″ length, two 1″ balls |
| CASEMATIX 16 inch Waterproof FishFinder Case | CASEMATIX | Waterproof, airtight, impact-resistant hard shell, customizable foam inserts, heavy-duty latches |
| Velpaw Aluminium Fish Finder Mount | Velpaw | All-aluminum, vibration-dampening, supports up to 13 lbs static load, saltwater corrosion resistant |
Garmin GPSMAP 86Sci Floating Handheld Chartplotter
The Garmin GPSMAP 86Sci is designed specifically for marine use with features tailored for small boat operators. Its water-resistant, floating design ensures durability and retrieval if dropped in water. The 3-inch sunlight-visible display accompanied by easy-to-use physical buttons provides reliable operation even in bright conditions. Equipped with preloaded BlueChart G3 Coastal Charts, this device merges Garmin and Navionics mapping data to support thorough navigation.
Additional features include Inreach satellite communication capabilities, allowing for emergency messaging and tracking in remote areas. It can also stream boat data from compatible chartplotters and instruments, consolidating navigation and system information conveniently. This model suits boaters seeking a compact, multifunctional navigation tool for small boat adventures.
VAUBORTTI Aluminum 1.5″ Ball Mount with Extended Dual Arm
This VAUBORTTI Aluminum Mount is perfect for mounting fish finders, tablets, or chartplotters on small boats. Its rugged marine-grade aluminum alloy provides excellent resistance to corrosion and wear. The key feature is the 14.76-inch extended dual arm, facilitating flexible positioning for better visibility and ease of use even in cramped environments.
The mount includes four 360-degree pivot points and an oversized wingnut that allows operators to adjust the device angle quickly and secure it firmly, even with gloves. This mount offers exceptional stability, ideal for long-term marine use where robust equipment support is critical.
VAUBORTTI Aluminum Ball Mount with Double AMPS Plates
The VAUBORTTI Aluminum Ball Mount for Garmin Striker and similar devices focuses on durability and adjustability. Made from high-temperature die-cast aluminum alloy with a polyethylene powder coating, it withstands various challenging marine conditions. The mount incorporates an integrally die-cast base to prevent breakage and enhance longevity.
Its design includes two 1-inch balls attached to a 5.7-inch body, allowing for free rotation and flexible angle adjustment. This adaptability ensures an optimal viewing angle for your chartplotter or fishfinder, essential for small boat setups requiring convenient and secure gear mounting.
CASEMATIX 16 inch Waterproof Marine Electronics Protective Case
This CASEMATIX waterproof and airtight case is designed to protect marine electronics including Garmin Striker, Humminbird Helix, Lowrance Hook, and Raymarine chartplotters. The hard shell construction is impact-resistant, shielding sensitive devices from shocks and drops during transport or storage.
The case offers customizable foam inserts that can be hand-plucked for a perfect fit around your GPS fish finders, transducers, sonar equipment, and accessories. Heavy-duty latches and a secure rubber seal ensure water resistance, making it ideal for boaters who need to safeguard electronics from moisture and rough handling.
Velpaw Aluminium Fish Finder Mount with Heavy Duty Swing Arm
The Velpaw Aluminium Mount offers robust support for fish finders and chartplotters with a heavy-duty swing arm measuring 7.32 inches. Known for superb load capacity, it supports up to 13 pounds static weight and 9 pounds under dynamic conditions, making it suitable for large displays.
Constructed from all-aluminum with stainless steel reinforcements, it features vibration dampening that maintains stability in rough waters. This mount is saltwater-ready, resisting corrosion via marine-grade bolts and springs, and includes a versatile heavy-duty base compatible with kayaks and small boats.
Buying Guide for Chartplotters And Mounts For Small Boats
Choosing the right chartplotter and accessories for your small boat involves considering several critical factors to ensure safe and efficient navigation.
Chartplotter Features
- Water Resistance and Durability: Devices designed for marine use should be waterproof or water-resistant and constructed to withstand exposure to sun, salt, and moisture.
- Display Visibility: Look for bright, sunlight-readable screens with intuitive controls such as buttons or touchscreens optimized for wet conditions.
- Preloaded Mapping: Comprehensive and accurate coastal charts, often combining data from trusted sources like Navionics and Garmin, enhance navigational accuracy.
- Connectivity: Features such as satellite communication, instrument streaming, and wireless syncing provide enhanced safety and data integration.
Mount Considerations
- Material Quality: Marine-grade aluminum with corrosion-resistant coatings ensures mounts hold devices stably in harsh environments.
- Adjustability: Multiple pivot points and swivel options allow you to customize viewing angles for comfort and usability while underway.
- Compatibility: Confirm the mount fits your chartplotter or fish finder, supporting the necessary mounting interfaces like AMPS plates or ball mounts.
- Load Capacity: Adequate support for device weight reduces wear and prevents damage, particularly for larger displays.
Protective Accessories
- Waterproof Cases: Protect devices during storage or transport via hard shell cases with customized foam cushioning.
- Screen Cleaners: Use specialized cleaners that safely remove smudges and provide anti-static protection to maintain visibility and device longevity.
Balancing device functionality with rugged accessories tailored for marine environments ensures your small boat navigation system performs reliably, even under challenging conditions.