Garmin handheld
Hello Tim: I purchased a Garmin 96C several years ago. The 96C is the same as the 76C but with an aviation database. It has three modes including marine and accepts the Blue Chart data. I use it routinely as a back-up in the boat. Also, we chartered a boat in the BVI and I downloaded the charts for that area. With the pilot (cruising guide) i had all the waypoints input before I even arrived in the BVI. The beneteau we chartered did have a plotter but I was planning that vacation weeks before I got there! The real benefit with the computer connection is that I find Garmin's software in the laptop easier to work with than the GPS itself. I voyage plan using a notebook and then download the routes/waypoints to the GPS. It's also handy for updating the unit itself. I have done this several times since purchase. You should keep paper charts of your area of operations as well as a back up and for referring to while underway. It's easier to do this with paper vice the small screen of the GPS. All in all, I have always been very happy with my Garmin. If I was to recommend a handheld GPS I would recommend a unit that has marine charts. Yes, you can take the lat/long and plot it but the real benefit of "moving maps" is the pseudo-real time positioning that it offers. You see where the GPS plots you within a few seconds. To take the numbers and plot them takes time. When the stress level begins to build because of pressure - the plotting can get sloppy and while you are plotting a position you are not looking out or piloting (assuming you are someone else is not at the conn). This is all relative of course; if you are 20 miles offshore putting a fix on the chart every hour it's not an issue. In a narrow channel with traffic in fog, it's a big deal. regards Chris Regards Chris
