January 24, 2019
Canadian Yachting 2019 Gear Guide
This past decade has been a real up-and-down ride for the companies who make boating equipment. When the recession hit in 2008/2009, new product development for most manufacturers ground to a sharp halt as they focused on more pressing issues, like simply keeping the lights on.
December 10, 2018
Canadian Yachting Marine Electronics Gear Guide
While the basics of boat hull design hasn’t changed that much over the years, the same cannot be said for marine electronics. Indeed, the explosive growth in this market has changed the way we go boating and it continues to do so at an accelerated pace.
April 25, 2018
Going App Enabled for Marine Autopiloting
We are all looking to gain a little more time these days, and technology is often the route we pursue to find solution that will grant us more time for other things, even if that is just sunning on the bow or getting in the next chapter of that book you can’t put down.
March 20, 2018
Going Satellite Navigation for Smart Devices, Again
Last year when this column launched a good deal of time was spent understanding global satellite navigation systems and which systems Apple and Android devices were able to connect to.
February 21, 2018
Going WeatherFlow for Smart Devices
For a gloomy February we look not only at how an app that works within your phone can be of benefit to mariners but take a look at an interesting ‘pocket gadget’ that connects…
January 24, 2018
Going Activecaptain With Garmin
With Garmin it is now possible to use both devices without independently operating two devices with different software.
November 23, 2017
Peering Atop Islands and Around Bends
A thin breeze skitteredacross the Gulf of Maine, and a low cloud ceiling stamped-outany moonlight, making for a darknight aboard my dad’s J/44, Southern Cross.
November 23, 2017
More Boat Time, Less Office Time
I am fortunate to have the ability to work from just about anywhere. A cellular signal and a Wi-Fi connection is about all I really need to put in a full day’s work.
November 21, 2017
Going Virtual with Sailing Simulators and Full VR
As I sit looking out my window at the snow that is slowly piling up it is easy to be downtrodden by the prospect that the winter season is yet to fully hit.
October 25, 2017
raceQs delivers dazzling competition info
In the last edition of this column we took a close look at iRegatta and the advantages it can bring while racing. This week we move beyond an app that aids during your race to one that can provide in depth analysis of your boat post-race.
June 20, 2017
Optimus 360 Joystick Control System
When Terry Conrad, of Conrad Marine, offered me ride in a brand-new Sea Fox 288 Commander that he was outfitting I immediately agreed.
December 1, 2016
Breakthrough Marine Electronics
While many boat owners simply choose not to venture out after dark, there are occasions when you may need to “see” under adverse circumstances like mist, fog or heavy rain and of course, at night.
November 19, 2015
Marine Binoculars: I See, Therefore I Am (Safe)
Galileo made his first telescope in 1609, modelled after telescopes produced in other parts of Europe (primarily Holland) that could magnify objects three times. Later that same year, Galileo created a telescope that could magnify objects twenty times. He did very well after that. Fast forward to 2015 and I am on the hunt for a second pair of binoculars for our boat, as we plan an extended cruise next fall. I say a second pair, because – it seems – Mary’s and my eyes are not aging in the same manner and at the same rate. So when either of us picks up the shared binoculars, we have to re-adjust them for our own use. I read recently that the way to avoid having your binoculars out of focus is to have your own.
October 22, 2015
Steiner Navigator Pro 7×50
The porro prism Navigator Pro Series is the choice for recreational boaters, weekend anglers and hobby sailors. It offers exceptional performance for the price with many of the features found on premium, world-famous Steiner marine binoculars…
July 8, 2015
Wireless Sport Coach App Offers Real-time In-ear Audio Coaching
For fans of burpees, lunges, squats and planks who want the added motivation of individual coaching while listening to music, the world’s first wireless cross-training audio solution has arrived…
May 27, 2015
FLIR Releases LightHouse II Update for Raymarine MFD with Sailboat Enhancements
FLIR Systems recently announced the release of the latest update to its acclaimed LightHouse II operating system for Raymarine multifunction displays (MFDs), with advanced features designed specifically for sailboats…
May 13, 2015
App Controlled Multimedia Unit Ups the Anti for Marine Audio
ASA Electronics recently announced the arrival of the MA300—an app ready multimedia unit that can be controlled directly through your mobile device.
December 10, 2014
Furuno Brings Total Tztouch Control to Android Devices
In a world where frequent system updates for your phone, tablet and computer are the norm, it is great to see that the marine electronics field is keeping pace. When Furuno introduced the NavNet TZtouch system, they explained how they were using the very latest processors, which would allow the system to stay current for several years. Through software updates and new features, Furuno has done an excellent job keeping the system fresh. Now, they are taking it one step further by introducing more FREE Apps that connect TZtouch with Android devices!
December 10, 2014
New Wireless SailTimer Wind Instrument
The SailTimer Wind Instrument™ is a new high tech masthead anemometer that transmits directly to apps on tablets and smartphones. It is designed to work with third-party apps, and also has an accessory for plugging in to NMEA networks.
July 4, 2014
Jensen Adds Another Bluetooth Stereo To Series
ASA Electronics is pleased to announce the arrival of the MS40BT—a Bluetooth®-enabled stereo that can control Bluetooth devices. The MS40BT completes a series of JENSEN® stereos featuring Bluetooth capabilities.
July 2, 2014
While Embracing the Latest and Greatest in Weather App Technology Don’t Forget the Tried and True Forecasting Methods
When any boater is planning to head out onto the water for a two week excursion or even for an hour, the current and upcoming weather conditions are and should be the deciding factor for getting underway. Consider the recent events near Texada Island, BC where a couple was out on their 16 foot open boat for a day of recreational fishing when they were overcome by some bad weather and rough seas and ended up capsizing into the cold April waters of the Pacific Ocean.
June 25, 2014
My Boat Software Offers All Encompassing Boat Organization
My Boat was specifically produced in response to customer demand for an iPad App that would appeal to every boater. Cleverly, it automatically syncs all the data from the company’s hugely popular App for iPhone – ‘What’s on my Boat’.
April 30, 2014
Fugawi X-traverse Now Industry’s Largest Downloadable Chart Collection
Software manufacturer Northport Systems Inc. has announced that its popular Fugawi X-Traverse online service now supports over twenty million square miles of coastal, river and lake coverage, making X-Traverse the largest online provider of navigational content in the world. X-Traverse offers more than 160 product options including 45 fishing charts, 105
April 11, 2014
Garmin® Introduces GNX™ Marine Instruments Offering Multiple Backlighting Options and Low Power Consumption
Garmin International Inc.has introduced the GNX 20 and GNX 21, the newest offerings in the premier Garmin marine instrumentation lineup. Boasting fully customizable displays and low power consumption, the GNX 20 and GNX 21 provide the most pivotal marine information for both sail and power boating.
March 19, 2014
GOST Demos of Global Remote Marine Security, Monitoring, Video Surveillance & GPS Tracking Systems
The GOST® (Global Ocean Security Technologies) Nav-Tracker line of GPS tracking systems utilitzes the Inmarsat Satellite Constellation for all communication and control, providing complete global coverage everywhere in the world except the extreme poles.
November 20, 2013
Bad Elf GPS for Lightning Connector
The Bad Elf GPS for Lightning™ Connector quickly acquires a satellite lock anywhere in the world – without cell tower assistance. No Internet connection or monthly subscription is required. The Bad Elf GPS for Lightning™ Connector (BE-GPS-1008) is an officially licensed by Apple plug-in dongle that instantly adds location support for iPhone 5, iPad Mini and iPod touch (5th generation).
November 20, 2013
Garmin Introduces SideVü and DownVü Side-Scanning Sonar
Garmin has just announced their new down and side-scanning sonar technology called SideVü and DownVü. Garmin will also be offering a brand new line of standalone echo fishfinders and echoMAP combination units with built-in DownVü capability. A software update that allows any new GPSMAP 500 and 700 series units to be DownVü compatible will be released in addition to these units. The company will also be offering the GCV 10
November 8, 2013
Meeting in the Middle
Most people who buy a 60’ yacht aren’t too worried about how much the electronics add-on package is going to cost. After all, what’s another $30,000 when you’re already in for a million? Many of us fall into a more moderate category, with 25’ to 35’ vessels, some brand-new, some used. If this is where you’re at, deciding which electronics to put on the boat means a process of trying to get the most function for the lowest price. Fortunately, new marine electronics make this easier than ever before, with lots of flexibility and value.
November 7, 2013
America’s Cup
Marine electronics has just made a quantum leap forward and into a whole new realm. The high profile of the America’s Cup has inspired the innovation of a video technology called AC LiveLine. It is an easy-to-understand video overlay that allows the best understanding of sailboat racing in this spectacular event, considered to be the oldest trophy in international sport.
November 7, 2013
Special Section – Marine Electronics 2013
Do you remember the car phones of the mid to late 1980s? A mere 25 years ago, your car phone was bolted onto the dashboard, the handset was as big as the one on your home telephone and it was attached with a thick coiled cord that got caught on the gear shift and wrapped around your neck every time you went around a corner. But wow! That little black antenna on your back window proclaimed to the world that you were a techno-leader!
October 23, 2013
West Marine Features The Goal Zero Solar Recharging Kit
An ultra-portable power supply to keep laptops and tablets charged up anywhere you go. The Sherpa 50 Solar Recharger is easy to pack and light to carry so your gear now goes the same distance you do and quickly recharges from wall, car or sun. If you can plug in a cord you can use a Sherpa 50 Recharger. There are three ways to recharge the Sherpa 50. Recharge from the wall – takes about 3 hours. Recharge from your car using 12V
October 23, 2013
GOST Watch HD Global Remote Yacht Monitoring Packages with KVH TracPhone VIP Series
The new systems integrations will be on display at the 2013 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show in Electronics Tent booth 310-311 at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center, October 31-November 4. GOST Watch HD VIP Series packages provide high definition surveillance using a high speed internet connection through the KVH line of mini-VSAT Broadband? systems, along with a penta-band GSM/CDMA cellular data communicator for use when in cellular coverage areas. The KVH mini-VSAT has a pre-configured intelligent “best
September 25, 2013
3dB Gain VHF Antenna is Compact and Easy to Install
Target is a 3dB gain VHF antenna designed for any type of boat requiring a short overall length: it’s compact (530mm / 20,9’ length) and very easy to be installed everywhere thanks to the supplied ratchet mount. With its black flexible steel whip with helical design to avoid excessive whipping action, and integrated 6m
August 14, 2013
AmeriCam Dual Backup Camera System Makes Towing Boats a Breeze
Anyone who has ever tried to hitch a tow vehicle to a boat trailer or tried backing down a narrow ramp using only rear-view mirrors knows that it can be a frustrating endeavor. Many arguments have broken out over the driver’s inability to reverse properly, threatening to ruin an otherwise idyllic day on the water. To combat this problem and restore peace to marinas and lakes everywhere, AmeriCam has designed a dual backup camera system that makes reversing a boat trailer simple.
August 14, 2013
Shakespeare Expands With SureCall Cellular Boosters
Cellphone-Mate and Shakespeare Company LLC announced an agreement in which Shakespeare expands its product range to include SureCall™ cellular signal boosters by Cellphone-Mate. Shakespeare will have exclusive rights to the SureCall product suite in the marine market, branded as Shakespeare® Anywhere Cellphone Boosters. “SureCall cellular signal boosters offer the highest quality combined with ease of use, and Cellphone-Mate is a well-respected leader in the cellular industry. As part of our goal to best deliver connectivity on the water, we now
August 13, 2013
New Space-Saving Aquatic AV 3” Speaker
The new 3-inch speaker from marine audio systems manufacturer Aquatic AV® needs just 56mm mounting depth, but will deliver the same crystal-clear sound as a speaker needing much more space on board. The fully waterproof, UV and salt-resistant speaker (model number AQ-SPK3.0-4S) is rated at 60 watts maximum power output (30 watts RMS) with a frequency response of 125Hz-20,000Hz. It is capable of stand-alone operation, delivering full range output, or can used to compliment larger speakers already installed in a boat stereo system.
July 25, 2013
Motorguide Introduces Pinpoint GPS Navigation for Precise Control and Positioning
MotorGuide, a trusted fishing brand with more than 50 years of engineering and manufacturing trolling motors, introduces Pinpoint® GPS navigation available on its new Xi5 wireless trolling motor. Pinpoint GPS delivers on-target location accuracy that enables anglers to precisely position their boats and achieve optimum boat control.
July 23, 2013
New Raymarine CHIRP DownVision Models Debut at ICAST
The compact dimension, big specification format of Raymarine’s new “a” Series multifunction displays (MFDs) receives another boost as the company releases its latest models; expanding screen sizes to 7” and adding Wi-Fi, plus new sonar options to the extensive list of a Series capabilities. The combination of CHIRP and Downvision sonar, first seen in Raymarine’s ground-breaking Dragonfly™ which launched earlier this year to great acclaim, is now available in a Series too. The a Series MFDs feature Raymarine’s LightHouse User Interface and offer advanced navigation, sonar, and network capabilities in a compact, full-featured touchscreen display.