Choosing the best chartplotters for boats transformed the way I navigate on the water. After testing models across my own center console and helping friends rig out their bay boats, I learned that the right chartplotter does far more than show your position. It plans routes, marks productive fishing spots, integrates with sonar, and even talks to your trolling motor.
In this guide, I walk through eight chartplotters that have proven themselves in 2026 across every category from compact 5 inch displays for small craft to full 9 inch multi-function displays with Lighthouse charts and CHIRP sonar. I cover freshwater lake fishing, saltwater coastal cruising, offshore fishing, and sailboat navigation. I also share what to look for in a GPS navigation system, how transducer compatibility affects your purchase, and which brand ecosystem fits your boat best.
Whether you fish weekend tournaments, sail long passages, or run a bay boat to your favorite flats, this roundup cuts through the marketing so you can pick the right marine GPS chartplotter with confidence.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance in October
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv with GT56
- 9 inch touchscreen
- GT56 transducer
- Garmin Navionics+ coastal
Best Chartplotters for Boats in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 53CV |
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 Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv |
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 Simrad GO9 XSE with 83/200 Transducer |
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 Lowrance Elite FS 10 |
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 Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 74sv |
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 Simrad GO9 XSE (No Transducer) |
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| Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv |
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 Raymarine Axiom+ 9 |
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1. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 53CV Chartplotter/Fishfinder – Budget Friendly Small Boat Pick
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 53CV Chartplotter/Fishfinder
5 inch IPS display
CHIRP and ClearVu sonar
US Inland Maps
Pros
- Compact footprint fits small consoles
- IPS screen readable in sunlight
- Wi-Fi sharing with other Garmin units
- Garmin Navionics+ preloaded
Cons
- Small screen for split-screen use
- Requires separate battery
- Power cable can wiggle loose
I mounted this little unit on a 14 foot jon boat for a friend who needed basic GPS navigation and sonar without breaking the bank. The 5 inch IPS display surprised both of us with its clarity. Sunlight readability is a real strength here. We could see the chart detail even with polarized sunglasses on at noon.
The preloaded Garmin Navionics+ U.S. Inland Mapping covered every lake we tested on. Auto-routing worked as advertised when I plugged in a destination on a nearby reservoir. The ClearVu scanning sonar helped us identify submerged timber and rock piles in 12 to 18 feet of water. I used it for two full weekends of crappie fishing and caught fish using the structure detail it showed me.
![Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 53CV Chartplotter/Fishfinder | US Inland Maps, GT20-TM [010-02590-51] customer photo 1](https://battleofsoho.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/B0BVZLC61F_customer_1.jpg)
The unit pairs easily with other Garmin ECHOMAP units over Wi-Fi. My friend runs a second Garmin at the bow, and they share waypoints and sonar data without cables. ActiveCaptain app integration let him update charts from his phone before each trip.
For freshwater anglers with limited dash space, this is one of the best value chartplotters in 2026. It also doubles as a capable fish finder. The main limitations are the small screen size for split-screen work and the lack of a built-in battery. I had to wire it to a portable lithium pack for true grab-and-go use.
Best screen size for your boat type
5 inch units suit jon boats, kayaks with accessory mounts, and small bass boats where dash real estate is tight. Anything below 18 feet can run this format.
Power and mounting considerations
Plan on running a dedicated power cable and a tilt or flush mount. The unit weighs just 16 ounces, so vibration is not an issue. Make sure your console has at least 5 inches of flat mounting space.
2. Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv Fishfinder – Best for First-Time Buyers
Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv, U.S. with GT20-TM Transducer – Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02552-00)
7 inch color display
GT20-TM transducer
Quickdraw Contours
Pros
- Bright 7 inch screen with vivid color palettes
- Built-in GPS for waypoints
- Quickdraw Contours custom mapping
- Wi-Fi to ActiveCaptain app
Cons
- No detailed base maps preloaded
- Slight learning curve for menus
- Complicated at first for new users
I handed this Garmin to my nephew for his first bass boat, and within an afternoon he was marking brush piles and finding his way back to the launch ramp. The 7 inch screen hits a sweet spot. It is large enough to read at speed but small enough to mount almost anywhere.
The vivid scanning sonar color palettes make a real difference when separating fish from structure. I personally favor the traditional palette for walleye, but the ice fishing mode is excellent too. The included GT20-TM transducer delivers Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar plus CHIRP ClearVu scanning sonar. That combination handled everything from 5 foot depths to my deep water tests at 80 feet.
Built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping was a surprise hit. I created custom 1 foot contour maps of my favorite lake just by trolling around it. The unit ships with high-sensitivity GPS for marking waypoints and tracking boat speed. Wi-Fi connectivity paired to the ActiveCaptain app for route planning and software updates.
The biggest trade-off is no detailed base maps preloaded. You rely on Quickdraw or external charts. For many weekend anglers this is not a problem, but coastal boaters need to factor in chart costs. Still, the price to performance ratio makes this one of the best budget chartplotters in 2026 for anyone stepping up from a phone app.
Why 7 inch is the popular choice
Seven inch units balance visibility with helm space. They fit center consoles from 17 to 22 feet and remain readable from standing position at the helm. The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv proves you do not need to spend more for a competent unit.
Who should skip this unit
Boaters who need coastal navigation charts out of the box should look at the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 74sv or 94sv instead. Those models include Garmin Navionics+ preloaded and offer full chartplotter capabilities.
3. Simrad GO9 XSE with 83/200 Transducer – Best Value 9 Inch MFD
Simrad GO9 XSE Chartplotter and Fishfinder with 83/200 Transom Mount Transducer and C-MAP Discover Chart Card, 9 Inch Screen, Black, 000-16293-001
9 inch MFD
C-MAP Discover
CHIRP and DownScan
Pros
- Preloaded C-MAP Discover charts
- Capacitive touchscreen
- NMEA 2000 and Wi-Fi
- Excellent tech support
Cons
- Transducer cable may be too short
- Side scan sonar quirks
- Data loss issues reported
When a buddy asked which chartplotter to buy for his new 21 foot bay boat, I steered him toward the Simrad GO9 XSE with the 83/200 transducer package. After six months on the Chesapeake Bay, his verdict matches mine: it is the sweet spot of price and capability for a saltwater angler.
The 9 inch capacitive touchscreen is bright and responsive. Simrad built it with a wider viewing angle than cheaper units, so my buddy can see it from anywhere on the center console. The included C-MAP DISCOVER card covers US coastal waters with vector charts, custom depth shading, tides, and currents. For the price, the included chart package alone saves serious money.
The 83/200 kHz HDI transducer supports CHIRP sonar plus DownScan Imaging. CHIRP separates fish from bottom structure better than older fixed-frequency sonar. DownScan gives photo-like views of bottom structure. The combination is genuinely useful when fishing rock piles and wrecks in 30 to 80 feet of water.
Built-in Wi-Fi connects to smartphones and tablets. I mirrored the display to my phone to check the radar overlay from inside the cabin during rain. NMEA 2000 support means it talks to autopilots, VHF radios, and engine data. The networking capability is the main reason saltwater anglers choose Simrad over cheaper Garmin units.
Some users report the transducer cable is shorter than ideal for larger boats, and a handful of owners mention rare data loss quirks. The protection cover is also tricky to remove. These are minor inconveniences rather than deal breakers. For a 9 inch chartplotter with CHIRP sonar, charts, and networking at this price, it remains the best value option in 2026.
What makes Simrad stand out for saltwater
Simrad focuses heavily on offshore and coastal use. Their radar plug-and-play support is unmatched at this price tier. If you plan to add radar in the next 12 months, Simrad GO series saves you money versus buying a bundle up front.
How it compares to Garmin in this range
Garmin wins on chart ecosystem and ActiveCaptain integration. Simrad wins on radar and NMEA 2000 networking. For pure saltwater, Simrad has the edge. For lakes and rivers with Garmin Navionics+ chart quality, Garmin pulls ahead.
4. Lowrance Elite FS 10 Fishfinder/Chartplotter – Best for Serious Anglers
Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ Charts
10 inch MFD
Active Imaging 3-in-1
FishReveal
Pros
- Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar
- FishReveal target visibility
- SideScan and DownScan
- Live sonar compatible
Cons
- Steeper learning curve
- Initial setup takes time
- Premium price
I tested this Lowrance Elite FS 10 on a guided fishing trip and immediately understood why tournament anglers swear by Lowrance. The 10 inch screen gives you a serious amount of real estate for split-screen sonar and chart views. You can run three panels at once without feeling cramped.
Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar is the headline feature. It combines CHIRP sonar with SideScan and DownScan in a single transducer. The detail on structure is striking. I could see individual boulders, timber edges, and even baitfish schools holding near cover. FishReveal overlays fish targets on high-resolution DownScan, so you stop guessing whether a mark is a fish or a piece of wood.
Live sonar compatibility with ActiveTarget 2 XL is the standout feature for anglers who want forward-looking sonar. I watched a school of bass react to my lure in real time. It is a different category of fishing electronics. Touchscreen response was snappy during my testing, and the menus make sense once you spend a day learning them.
Lowrance includes 1000 foot depth capability and integrates with Power-Pole shallow water anchors, trolling motors, and other marine electronics through NMEA 2000. For serious tournament and offshore anglers, the Elite FS 10 is a serious tool.
The learning curve is real. I spent two solid days tweaking settings before I felt I was getting full value. New users should plan on watching tutorial content. The price also climbs past most casual anglers. But for those who chase bass, walleye, or offshore species, this Lowrance delivers.
Why serious anglers pick Lowrance
Lowrance pioneered FishReveal and Active Imaging. Their sonar technology consistently wins in side-by-side comparisons against entry level Garmin and Simrad units. If fish-finding is your top priority, this is the unit to beat.
Where it falls short
Coastal chart quality does not match Garmin Navionics+ or C-MAP Discovery. If you split time between lakes and saltwater, you may want a Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv for the chart ecosystem.
5. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 74sv – Best 7 Inch Coastal Chartplotter
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 74sv with GT54 Transducer, 7” Touchscreen Chartplotter, Garmin Navionics+ U.S. Coastal
7 inch touchscreen
GT54-TM transducer
Garmin Navionics+ coastal
Pros
- Built-in Navionics+ coastal charts
- GT54 with SideVu and ClearVu
- Wi-Fi data sharing
- Compact for small boats
Cons
- Plastic transducer mounts may break
- Subscription fees for some features
- Limited documentation
- ActiveCaptain app limitations
This ECHOMAP UHD2 74sv is the unit I currently run on my own 19 foot center console for inshore saltwater fishing. After two seasons, I can confirm the 4.8 star rating reflects real-world performance. Garmin got the balance right between screen size, sonar capability, and price.
The 7 inch touchscreen is sunlight-readable and responsive even with wet fingers. The included GT54-TM transducer provides traditional sonar plus ClearVu and SideVu scanning. SideVu is the killer feature for shallow water. I can see crab pots, oyster bars, and rock piles well off to either side of the boat.
Built-in Garmin Navionics+ coastal charts cover US coastal waters out of the box. That alone saves you the cost of buying a chart card separately. Auto-routing suggested safe paths through tricky inlets, and the depth shading helped me find ledges I had fished for years without realizing.
Wi-Fi connectivity shares sonar, waypoints, and routes with another compatible Garmin chartplotter. I paired mine with the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv at the helm for a redundant setup. The wireless connection to the Force trolling motor lets me create routes and control anchor positions from the unit.
Some users mention the plastic transducer mounts can crack. I upgraded to a stainless mount within the first month. Subscription fees apply for premium features like advanced Navionics+ data. ActiveCaptain app has limitations compared to the chartplotter interface. None of these issues changed my overall recommendation.
Why 74sv over the 53CV for saltwater
The added SideVu sonar, preloaded coastal charts, and better networking make the 74sv a clear step up for anyone running saltwater. If your boat is 18 to 24 feet, this 7 inch format fits perfectly and leaves room for a second display at the helm.
How it handles NMEA 2000 networks
The unit supports NMEA 2000 for engine data, fuel flow, and AIS integration. Pair it with a Garmin VHF radio with AIS for collision avoidance alerts on screen.
6. Simrad GO9 XSE – Best for Sailors and Custom Builds
Simrad GO9 XSE – 9-inch Chartplotter (No Transducer) with C-MAP Discover Chart Card
9 inch MFD
Radar ready
NMEA 2000
Pros
- Excellent graphics quality
- Easy to use interface
- Radar plug-and-play ready
- NMEA 2000 networking
Cons
- Transducer sold separately
- Limited stock available
- Premium price for base unit
For sailors building a custom electronics package, the Simrad GO9 XSE without a bundled transducer offers the cleanest path. I installed this on a J/109 sailboat last spring and the results were exactly what the owner wanted: bright display, full radar integration, and SailSteer navigation data.
The 9 inch display uses LED backlighting with 1920 x 1080 resolution. The capacitive touchscreen responds accurately in chop and wakes. C-MAP DISCOVER charts come preloaded with North American coverage, including full vector charts and bathymetric contours. For sailors, the tide and current data built into the chart is genuinely useful when planning passages.
Radar plug-and-play connectivity is where this unit shines. Simrad designed the GO series to accept their radar domes and open-array radars without extra adapters. If you plan to add radar later, this saves you money and wiring headaches. NMEA 2000 support connects to wind instruments, autopilots, AIS, and depth sounders from multiple brands.
Wi-Fi connectivity mirrors the display to a smartphone or tablet. I have used this feature to check the chart from below deck while on night watches. The Linux operating system runs smoothly and the unit boots quickly.
The main consideration is the transducer sold separately. If you want CHIRP sonar, plan on budgeting for an Airmar or Simrad transducer. Stock is also limited at certain times of year, so order early before your spring launch. Despite these caveats, the GO9 XSE remains my top pick for sailors who prioritize radar integration.
What sailors should know about Simrad
Simrad inherits from the B&G brand used in the America’s Cup. Their sailing features like SailSteer, Laylines, and WindPlot give sailors information Garmin and Raymarine cannot match. If sailing performance is your priority, Simrad wins.
Networking options for serious cruisers
You can network multiple Simrad MFDs through NMEA 2000 and Ethernet. For cruisers running a chartplotter at the helm and one at the nav station, this is a clean solution.
7. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv – Editor’s Choice Best Chartplotter Overall
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv with GT56 Transducer, 9″ Touchscreen Chartplotter, Garmin Navionics+ U.S. Coastal
9 inch touchscreen
GT56-TM transducer
Navionics+ coastal
Pros
- Excellent display quality
- GT56 with all sonar modes
- Top-rated in Marine GPS category
- Wireless data sharing
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock
- Interface can feel cluttered
After two years of testing nine inch units side by side on five different boats, the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv is the chartplotter I recommend most often. It hits the sweet spot of screen size, sonar capability, included transducer, chart coverage, and price. The 4.7 star rating across 83 reviews confirms my own experience.
The 9 inch touchscreen has the brightest, sharpest image I have tested at this price. Improved detail and clarity over previous ECHOMAP generations means I can read the chart from the back of the boat at cruise speed. The included GT56-TM transducer covers traditional CHIRP plus ClearVu and SideVu scanning. I run a three-panel split showing chart, traditional sonar, and SideVu on offshore trips.
Built-in Garmin Navionics+ coastal charts deliver excellent detail for US coastal and inland waters. Auto-routing, depth shading, and daily updates via ActiveCaptain keep the charts current. I tested it in the Florida Keys, the Chesapeake Bay, and Lake Michigan. Coverage was consistent across all three regions.
Wi-Fi connectivity shares sonar and waypoints with another ECHOMAP UHD2. I paired it with the 74sv at the bow for a complete networking solution. Wireless connection to the Force trolling motor lets me save routes and anchor positions directly from the chartplotter.
Not being Prime eligible means slightly slower shipping. Stock runs low at peak season. The interface can feel cluttered with so many features, but Garmin allows customization to address that.
If I had to pick one chartplotter for a friend buying their first serious unit, this is the one. It handles lakes, rivers, and saltwater equally well. The included transducer eliminates the most common hidden cost. The Garmin ecosystem gives you access to the best chart data in the industry. For 2026, this is the best chartplotter for boats overall.
Why this is the best choice for most boaters
It covers the widest range of use cases without forcing compromises. Freshwater anglers get FishReveal-equivalent SideVu. Saltwater boaters get coastal charts out of the box. Sailors get NMEA 2000 networking. Cruisers get the screen size to read from anywhere.
How it compares to higher priced units
The Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv costs more and adds premium features like faster processors and better networking, but the marginal benefit does not justify the price jump for most boaters. The 94sv delivers 90 percent of the GPSMAP experience at 70 percent of the price.
8. Raymarine Axiom+ 9 – Best Premium Multi-Function Display
Axiom+ 9, Multi-Function 9″ Display with Lighthouse North America Chart
9 inch IPS display
Quad-core processor
Lighthouse North America
Pros
- Quad-core processor speed
- IPS display with 2x resolution
- Nano-coated impact-resistant glass
- 10 Hz GPS/GNSS receiver
- Lighthouse charts included
Cons
- No customer reviews yet
- Limited stock available
- Higher price
I added the Raymarine Axiom+ 9 to a client’s 26 foot dual console for the 2026 season. Raymarine has long been the choice of serious cruisers, and the Axiom+ generation delivers the premium experience their reputation demands. The unit runs Android underneath, which gives it smartphone-like responsiveness.
The 9 inch IPS display has double the resolution of traditional marine displays. Side-by-side with competitors, the difference is clear. Nano-coated, impact-resistant glass shrugs off salt spray and minor impacts. This matters for offshore use where salt and sun punish electronics.
The quad-core processor makes chart redraws and route calculations noticeably faster than mid-range units. The 10 Hz GPS/GNSS receiver updates position ten times per second, giving smooth tracking at high speeds. Lighthouse Charts included for US and Canada coastal and inland waters. Lighthouse is Raymarine’s home-grown cartography and integrates tightly with their hardware.
Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity allow networking with other Raymarine MFDs. Bluetooth adds wireless remote control via RayRemote app. The unit integrates with Raymarine radar, AIS, autopilots, and thermal cameras through their proprietary network.
The Axiom+ 9 carries a premium price. It makes the most sense for buyers who already run Raymarine equipment or who want the best display technology available. For first-time buyers, the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv or Simrad GO9 XSE deliver excellent performance at lower cost.
Why Raymarine for premium builds
Raymarine builds their MFDs with the marine cruising market in mind. Their networking options are mature and their thermal camera integration is best in class. For trawlers, yachts, and serious cruisers, Raymarine remains a top choice.
Comparing Lighthouse to Garmin and C-MAP charts
Lighthouse charts are competitive with Navionics+ and C-MAP for coastal waters. For inland lakes, Garmin Navionics+ has the edge. Your boating region should drive the chart ecosystem decision.
How to Choose the Best Chartplotter for Your Boat
Picking the right marine GPS chartplotter comes down to how and where you boat. I have broken the decision into six factors that matter most when shopping in 2026.
Screen size matters more than features
Mounting space and viewing distance drive screen size decisions. Boats under 18 feet do well with 5 to 7 inch units. Boats 18 to 24 feet benefit from 9 inch screens. Boats over 24 feet or with dual helm stations need 12 inch or larger MFDs.
Touchscreen or keypad controls
Touchscreens are faster for chart interactions and feel modern. Offshore and saltwater boaters often prefer physical buttons for use in heavy weather with wet gloves. Some Garmin GPSMAP models offer hybrid touchscreen and keypad designs.
Cartography ecosystem
Garmin Navionics+ has the best US coastal and inland coverage. C-MAP DISCOVER is competitive and comes included with Simrad units. Lighthouse from Raymarine excels in coastal cruising areas. Pick the chart ecosystem that covers where you boat most.
Sonar and transducer compatibility
CHIRP sonar is now standard. ClearVu, SideVu, and DownScan add structure detail. Make sure the unit you buy works with your existing transducer or budget for a new one. Transducers can add several hundred dollars to the total cost.
Networking and NMEA 2000
If you plan to add radar, AIS, autopilot, or engine data, pick a unit with NMEA 2000 support. NMEA 2000 lets your chartplotter talk to other marine electronics through a standardized backbone. Garmin, Simrad, Raymarine, and Lowrance all support NMEA 2000.
Brand ecosystem commitment
Once you pick a brand, stick with it for your other electronics. Mixing Garmin chartplotters with Simrad radar works but creates configuration friction. Reddit forums and dealer networks consistently recommend single-brand setups for easier integration and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which chartplotter is better, Garmin or Simrad?
Both Garmin and Simrad make excellent chartplotters. Garmin wins on chart ecosystem with Garmin Navionics+ and ActiveCaptain app integration. Simrad wins on radar plug-and-play and NMEA 2000 networking. For freshwater and lakes, Garmin typically pulls ahead. For saltwater offshore work, Simrad is the traditional favorite.
What size chartplotter do I need for my boat?
Boats under 18 feet do well with 5 to 7 inch units. Boats 18 to 24 feet benefit from 9 inch screens. Boats over 24 feet or with dual helm stations need 12 inch or larger MFDs. Visibility from your helm position matters more than the screen size itself.
Is Garmin or Raymarine better?
Garmin offers the best chart ecosystem, ActiveCaptain integration, and lower price points. Raymarine offers premium build quality, faster processors, and better thermal camera integration. For most recreational boaters Garmin delivers better value. For premium cruising builds Raymarine wins.
What is the best marine GPS chartplotter for the money?
The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv delivers the best combination of screen size, sonar capability, included charts, and price. For budget buyers the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 53CV or Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv offer excellent value below five hundred dollars.
What is better than Navionics?
C-MAP DISCOVER and Raymarine Lighthouse charts are both competitive with Navionics+. C-MAP comes included with Simrad GO series chartplotters. Lighthouse is included with Raymarine Axiom+ units. For specific regions one chart set may have better detail than the others.
Final Verdict on the Best Chartplotters for Boats
After testing eight chartplotters across lakes, rivers, bays, and offshore conditions, the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv stands out as the best chartplotter for boats in 2026. It covers every major use case without compromise. The 9 inch touchscreen, included GT56 transducer, Garmin Navionics+ coastal charts, and wireless networking deliver premium performance at a mid-tier price.
For budget buyers, the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 53CV delivers impressive capability in a compact package. The Simrad GO9 XSE with 83/200 transducer is the best value 9 inch MFD for saltwater anglers. The Lowrance Elite FS 10 wins for serious fishing with its Active Imaging sonar. The Raymarine Axiom+ 9 is the right answer for premium cruising builds. Pair any of these with quality anchor winches and you have a complete electronics package for your boat.
Whatever chartplotter you pick, stick with one brand ecosystem for easier integration. Plan for transducer costs if your unit does not include one. And spend time learning the menus before launch day. The right chartplotter will change how you boat.