portable GPS for boat & car?

[Dave]

Can anyone recommend a good GPS that can be used for navigation in my car, as well as in my sailboat? Preferably it would also fit in my pocket. The new Garmin Nuvi looks great, but I don't think it handles marine charts. Garmin also has one based on a PDA (IQUE 3600?), that I've heard might fit my needs. I don't want to spend more than $800. Any suggestions?

 

[MerSea]

276C

I asked the same question few months ago ,(only I didn't want to spend more than $400.00)I had my mind set on the Magellan explo XL but most of the (help full) answers praised the Garmin 76sx.($350) After trying different models I end-up buying the portable Garmin 276c plus at West Marine on sale for $599.00. It wont fit in your pocket ,it is larger than a 76 series ,but it has a bigger screen and the display is easier to read in bright sunlight when sailing or driving.Check these sites for reviews and prices ; tigergps.com , consumersearch.com/gps.and go to a store like WM to see and try them.Phil.

 

[Ed]

Agree with Mersea

I came to the same conclusion, and also purchased the MapSource CD. I like the unit at the helm, also use it in my car. On longer trips I connect the 276 to my laptop and track progress/position below to help Admiral and myself to agree on plan. It is also great for planning - we can plan our route at home on the laptop and then push the route to the device at the helm. Only complaint is I would like a slightly bigger screen at the helm - but then you loose any portability.BTW _ I believe its on sale at WM right now.Ed.