GPS/Sounder/Plotter Recommendations or warnings?

[AndyS]

Ahoy Trailer-Sailors!I am about to be the proud owner of a new 26M , and I'm looking at basic outfitting.I currently have a handheld GPS and was looking at putting on a depth sounder, but I see all these neat combination units (example Garmin GPSmap 188) that are on the market now, that do all the speed/temp/depth work as well as incorporating GPS and a chartplotter - all in one nice little package.So, the question is, do any of you have particular recommendations on a good compact chartplotter? Likewise, are there any horror stories out there?Along the same line, do the chart sets that you buy for these little units incorporate annual updates, or do you have to buy new ones in order to stay up to date with Notice to Mariners, etc.?Thanks,AndyS

 

[John Dawson]

Kinda like the Garmin 182c

For that boat, not too small or too large. Good color, split screens and convenience of Bluechart chips. GPS, sonar and chartplotting. Limited to proprietary charts however.

 

[KVaught]

Wouldn't do it any other way!

I have a Garmin 168 Sounder. It does everything including my speed. Never had a problem with it. I would recomend this line GPS/depth/speed units to anyone. Mine is Black & white it would be nice to have it in color but I was not prepared to spend the extra $. Good Luck with the new boat!!!

 

[Paulo Viana]

Garmin 188C

I bought my 26M last summer and have been using a 188C ever since. Very, very good. Strongly recommend. Just keep in mind that the unit is only the first step on the spending process. If you plan to travel in different zones you end up having to purchase more than one card or more than one authorization if you buy the cd. And the adapter to the computer. And God knows what else. The one thing I did not find and think would be useful is a rubber/plastic hood to use when the unit is mounted outside. Even though resolution is very good, in bright sunshine it could do with a hood.

 

[Rick Dieffenbach]

Garmin 76s

I choose the handheld 76s Garmin last year because of its portability and ability to use Blue Chart data. I purchased a marine mount and have it set up high on the pedistal so I can see the screen clearly.The only downside to a hand held is the screen size, but that has never been a significant factor - the GPS 76 line has a larger screen size than many handhelds. It does everything you'd expect a top of the line GPS will do. And its easy to operate. I like that I can plan routes by bringing the unit to my computer. I also like that it doubles as a GPS for my car and for my hiking trips. There's been some instances when I explored islands in Casco Bay, Maine and used the GPS to locate features that were on the charts.So, for me, having a handheld makes a lot of sense. Oh yes, did I mention that when I tie up at the dock, I can simply put the GPS in my pocket so it is safe from thieves? Leave to explore with the GPS with me so I can find my way back!The electronic compass is pretty cool, as is the built-in weather barameter.Garmin has a new model out - 76c - more memory and color. Although with my GPS I have three bluechart regions installed and still have room for more.Rick