Helena Frye
Whether you're an experienced sailor or a weekend boating enthusiast, a good boat navigation app is essential for staying safe and making the most of your time on the water. With so many options available, it can be tricky to choose the right one for your needs. So, what is the best app for boat navigation?
What You'll Learn
iNavX vs. Navionics
INavX and Navionics are two of the most popular apps for boat navigation. Both apps are available for iOS devices, with iNavX also offering an Android version.
INavX is a free app for Android users, with a basic free version for iOS users, and a $4.99 price tag for the full iOS version. The app also offers an enhanced version for $19.99 per year. iNavX provides access to a large library of charts worldwide, with the ability to overlay multiple charts and support for raster and vector charts. The app also offers advanced waypoint management and supports various external accessories. iNavX can be paired with a vessel's networked chart plotter to monitor depth, wind, engine, and battery data. The app can also display AIS targets within 30 nautical miles of the user's boat, although this feature requires a fee. iNavX is highly customizable, allowing users to set waypoints, plan routes, view bearings, and customize a long list of other chart settings.
Navionics, on the other hand, offers a free trial, after which users must invest in a subscription. For example, the US and Canada maps are available for $24.99 per year. The app includes auto-routing capabilities, Active Captain Community data, Sonar Charts, and more. Navionics provides a number of ways to customize charts, with overlays for satellite imagery, relief shading to show depths, and sonar contours. The app also includes weather, tide, and buoy reports and can pair with onboard AIS receivers. Navionics is known for its user-friendly interface and reliable navigation tools, making it a popular choice among Android users.
When comparing the two apps, it's worth noting that iNavX may offer more features, such as anchor alarms and integration with boat systems. However, Navionics is often praised for its simplicity and ease of use. iNavX may be more suitable for those looking for advanced functionality and integration with onboard systems, while Navionics could be a better choice for users seeking a straightforward and intuitive navigation solution.
Both apps have their strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on the user's specific needs and expectations from a navigation tool. Some mariners even choose to use both apps concurrently to benefit from the unique features of each platform. Ultimately, the decision between iNavX and Navionics depends on the user's preferences and requirements for boat navigation.
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Free vs. paid apps
When it comes to choosing the best boat navigation app, there are a variety of options available, with features and pricing plans to suit every need. While some apps are entirely free to use, others offer a basic free version with the option to upgrade to a paid subscription for additional features.
Free Apps
Argo, for example, is a free app that offers a range of features for boaters, including navigation and social boating. It provides unlimited NOAA/USACE charts across North America, auto and manual routing, a captain's log, and current weather conditions. Another free app, YachtWave, is tailored specifically for yacht managers and boat owners, helping them manage daily and yearly maintenance obligations.
Paid Apps
On the other hand, apps like Wavve Boating, iNavX, and Navionics Boating offer paid subscription plans. Wavve Boating, for instance, offers a 14-day free trial, after which users can subscribe for $45.99 per year. iNavX, a popular choice among sailors, costs $4.99 for iOS users, with a free basic version and an enhanced version for $19.99 per year for Android users. Navionics Boating, known for its auto-routing capabilities and real-time weather updates, offers maps of the US and Canada for $24.99 per year.
Free apps can be a great option for those who are new to boating or on a budget, as they provide essential navigation tools and limited chart access without requiring a purchase. However, paid apps often offer more advanced features, such as extensive chart coverage, real-time updates, and integration with other devices. Ultimately, the decision between a free or paid app depends on the user's specific needs and preferences. Those who boat infrequently or in familiar areas may find that a free app suits their needs just fine, while more frequent boaters or those who travel to unfamiliar locations may prefer the additional features and functionality of a paid app.
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iOS vs. Android compatibility
When it comes to iOS vs. Android compatibility, there are several boat navigation apps that stand out as being versatile and widely accessible. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Wavve Boating
Wavve Boating is a highly recommended app that is fully compatible with both iOS and Android devices. It offers a user-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate and explore the waters. The app customizes nautical charts based on the user's vessel and current water levels, providing a simple and intuitive map. It also includes community features, allowing boaters to connect, share their favourite spots, and discover new locations together. Wavve Boating offers a 14-day free trial, after which users can subscribe annually for $45.99.
INavX
INavX is another popular boat navigation app that is available on both iOS and Android platforms. It provides access to an extensive library of charts and offers advanced waypoint management. While it is more complex than some other apps, it is particularly useful for seasoned mariners who want to integrate with onboard systems. iNavX costs $4.99 for iOS users, while Android users can access a free basic version or pay $19.99 per year for an enhanced version.
Navionics Boating App
The Navionics Boating App is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. It offers auto-routing capabilities, Active Captain Community data, Sonar Charts, and more. The app includes custom overlays and map options to enhance your boating experience. While it offers a free trial, users will need to invest in a subscription for continued use. For example, the US and Canada maps are available for $24.99 per year.
C-Map
The C-Map app is known for its user-friendly design and is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. It features vector maps, making it easy to customise and zoom in on specific areas. While the app can initially seem cluttered, adjusting the default settings can provide a smoother experience. C-Map offers free access to charts when connected to Wi-Fi, but offline cartography access and extended weather features are available only to premium subscribers.
Aqua Map
Aqua Map is a well-known marine navigation app that is available on both iOS and Android devices. It offers offline chart access, customisation features, and incorporates data from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Aqua Map also includes community features, allowing users to connect with other boaters. While the app is free, it does offer in-app purchases and subscriptions for additional features.
KnowWake
KnowWake is a free boat navigation app that is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. It provides accurate navigation and a wide range of features, including information on upcoming dangers, local businesses, water temperature, and more. KnowWake also offers collaboration features, allowing boaters to connect and share their locations with friends.
In summary, while there are many boat navigation apps available, the ones listed above offer compatibility with both iOS and Android devices, providing versatile options for boaters regardless of their device preferences.
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App features
INavX
INavX is a marine navigation app that provides access to a vast library of charts worldwide. It offers advanced waypoint management and supports various external accessories, enhancing the overall boating experience. It is compatible with iOS and Android devices and is also available on iPad. iNavX offers basic navigation features such as setting waypoints, planning routes, and viewing bearings. It can be paired with a vessel's networked chart plotter to monitor depth, wind, engine, and battery data. iNavX provides free access to charts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and offers in-app purchases for additional charts and features.
Navionics Boating App
Navionics is a popular boating app that offers auto-routing capabilities, Active Captain Community data, Sonar Charts, and more. It provides a user-friendly interface and reliable navigation tools, making it a favourite among Android users. The app includes custom overlays and map options, and real-time weather updates. Navionics offers free trials and subscriptions for specific regions, such as the US & Canada maps for $24.99 per year.
Wavve Boating
Wavve Boating is a highly recommended marine navigation app that offers a user-friendly interface and reliable functionality. It provides detailed and up-to-date access to over 15,000+ nautical charts and integrates community-sourced points of interest. The app allows boaters to see their friends on the water, share favourite spots, and discover new restaurants, routes, and other locations. Wavve Boating is compatible with iOS and Android devices and offers a 14-day free trial, followed by an annual subscription of $45.99.
C-Map
C-Map is a marine navigation app that features vector maps, making it easy to customise and zoom in on specific areas. It provides smooth navigation, boating hotspots, and updated maps. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices. While C-Map charts are free when connected to Wi-Fi, offline cartography access and extended weather forecasts are available only to premium subscribers.
Argo
Argo is a free navigation and social boating app that allows users to find and route to new destinations in North America, track boat trips, and connect with other boaters. It offers features such as unlimited NOAA/USACE charts, auto and manual routing, a captain's log, and current weather conditions. Premium features include offline charts, extended weather forecasts, custom depth shading, and multiple vessel support.
Aqua Map
Aqua Map is a well-known marine navigation app that uses survey data from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and Waterway Guide. It offers offline charts, weather updates, tides, route planning, and track recording. The app also includes integration with boat instruments and AIS, as well as safety features like an anchor alarm with remote monitoring. Aqua Map is free to use with in-app purchases and subscriptions available.
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User reviews
INavX
INavX is a popular marine navigation app that offers a free basic version for Android and a paid version for iOS. It provides access to a vast library of charts and supports various external accessories, making it a highly regarded app for marine navigation. One user praised iNavX for its high-resolution charts, stating that it offers "the broadest set of marine charts and maps from multiple providers". Another user, who had been using iNavX for over two years, appreciated its compatibility with their iPad and found it to be a satisfactory replacement for their expensive integrated electronics.
However, some users have criticised iNavX for its clunky user experience, with one user stating that the app is "less intuitive" and "more cumbersome" compared to competitors like Navionics and Navily. Another user expressed frustration with the additional cost of iNavX maps, which they felt was not justified given the quality of free alternatives.
Navionics
Navionics is a well-known boating app that offers a free trial followed by a subscription model. It is praised for its user-friendly interface and reliable navigation tools, making it a popular choice among Android users. One user commended Navionics for its "same features you would expect from the competitors" and its auto-routing capabilities.
However, a review on Reddit criticised Navionics for implementing a subscription model, feeling that it "ripped off" customers who had previously purchased their charts.
Wavve Boating
Wavve Boating is a highly recommended marine navigation app that offers a user-friendly interface and exceptional features. It is available on both iOS and Android devices and provides detailed nautical charts, real-time depth updates, and tide predictions. Users appreciate its ability to customise charts to their vessel's draft and current water levels, making it an intuitive and easy-to-read map. It also has a social aspect, allowing users to connect with other boaters and share their favourite spots.
Aqua Map
Aqua Map is a well-known marine navigation app that uses data from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and Waterway Guide. It offers offline charts, weather updates, route planning, and track recording. Users can also connect their boat instruments and AIS to the app. Aqua Map is praised for its ease of use and ability to connect with other boaters.
Argo
Argo is a free navigation and social boating app that offers precise navigation and a platform to connect with fellow boaters. It provides safe and reliable route planning, custom and manual routes, track recording, and a captain's log. One user praised Argo for being "feature-rich and easy to use", especially for planning trips and navigating waters. Another user, who went fishing with their boyfriend, found Argo to be a lifesaver when they got lost, stating that it was "the most easiest and colorful one yet".
C-Map
C-Map is a marine navigation app known for its user-friendly design. It offers customizable charts, simple route planning, auto-routing, and high-resolution bathymetry. Users appreciate its vector maps, which make customising and zooming seamless. However, one review noted that the app can get cluttered if the default settings are not adjusted.
OpenCPN
OpenCPN (Chart-Plotter Navigation) is a free marine navigation app that uses GPS software for open waterways. It offers robust worldwide charts, route planning with tidal support, and waypoint navigation. Users appreciate its safety features, such as AIS target tracking and collision alerts.
KnowWake
KnowWake is a real-time boat navigation app for coastal and inland waterways. It uses user-generated content to provide points of interest, hazards, and marine life sightings. It also has a Wake Zone identifier that indicates safe boating speeds based on colour-coded zones. Users appreciate its community-driven platform for sharing information and experiences.
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Frequently asked questions
Wavve Boating is considered the best marine navigation app overall. It offers comprehensive features, accurate data, and an intuitive interface, making it a top choice for boaters.
Yes, there are free marine navigation apps available, such as Argo, Navionics Boating, and C-Map. However, these apps usually offer a free trial period followed by a paid subscription plan.
Yes, many marine navigation apps are optimized for tablets, including Wavve Boating, iNavX, and Navionics. Tablets can provide a larger screen and better visibility for navigation.
Yes, several marine navigation apps offer offline functionality, including Wavve Boating, iNavX, and Navionics. Offline mode may limit access to the most updated tidal data but still provides sufficient details for safe navigation.
Wavve Boating, iNavX, and Navionics are known for their extensive chart coverage, offering charts from various public, private, and community-driven sources to ensure comprehensive coverage for boaters in different regions.
