Four hi-tech accessories that change your life on board

The boat, it is known, is home. And just as it happens in homes, where a renovation of furniture and appliances often rejuvenates the apartment, you will give new life to your “beloved” if you know how to choose the right accessories that are in step with the times. Like the four we present here, real “goodies” in terms of technological evolution that will change your life on board.

FOUR “HI-TECH” ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR BOAT

GARMIN / GPSMAP 86i
Do you need a handheld GPS? The brand new GPSMAP 86i from Garmin is for you: in addition to a color screen where you can view the course and all the wireless data from your chartplotter (and check autopilot) includes InReach technology which provides, via the Iridium global satellite network, location sharing, two-way messaging to and from any mobile device, and a 24-hour emergency service to call for help even where there is no cellular coverage. MORE INFO HERE.

VESPER MARINE / CORTEX
Called Cortex is Vesper Marine’s latest shake-up of the accessory world, which we recommend you consider if you are thinking of changing your VHF: thanks to a compact waterproof black box that you can install on board, you will have in a tool similar to a large smartphone: a super easy-to-use VHF, Class B AIS and a monitoring system for your boat, with all relevant alarms (intrusion, anchor movement, fumes, temperatures, batteries). The latter can, of course, also be viewed and managed remotely from your mobile device. MORE INFO HERE.

BAMAR / BWS
Do you have a bowsprit? Know that you can now arm your asymmetrics with electric blender. Bamar came up with BWS, a small motorized whisk (how convenient!) designed to be attached to the bowsprit, ideal for those who want to have the tack point of asymmetrics as far forward as possible without sacrificing the convenience of furling sails. Is designed to have the smallest possible footprint. MORE INFO HERE.

XENTA SYSTEMS / JOYSTICKS
Do you want to switch to a joystick to maneuver in restricted waters in total comfort? It is now so easy because it is possible to install the motorboat-derived Xenta system on sailboats as well. By activating the Docking function, you can concentrate on maneuvering while leaving the system to define the thrust of the maneuvering motor and propellers, direction and amount. You will be able to pull over in any direction but also perform more complex maneuvers such as 360-degree rotations and translations on the axis of the boat. MORE INFO HERE.

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