Navigating the Great Loop: Tools, Tips, and Tech for Safe Travels
When cruising America’s Great Loop, having reliable navigation tools is essential for safe and stress-free travel. Whether you’re a tech-savvy boater or prefer old-school paper charts, there’s a wide array of options to suit every captain’s needs. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular navigation setups, including what we use aboard our boat.
Our Setup on SV Fika
We rely on the Navionics Boating App, which runs on our iPhones and iPads. Here’s how we’ve optimized this system:
Primary Navigation: Our main navigation tool is a mounted iPad at the helm. It’s paired with our AIS, allowing us to see boats transmitting their location on the app.
Backup Options: Multiple phones and tablets are always on hand as backups in case of device failure.
Power Management: A charger wired directly to the helm keeps the iPad battery topped up throughout the journey. Otherwise, we keep a portable battery bank charged and ready to recharge the iPad.
GPS Capability: Although we don’t pay for cellular service on our iPad, it’s equipped to use GPS independently, making it reliable even without an internet connection.
Alternative Tablets for Navigation
Looking for an alternative to an iPad? Several other tablets perform well and come at a lower cost, though do some research and be sure to get the newest models:
Samsung Galaxy Tab Series: Popular choices include models like the S7 FE and S9 FE+. These tablets feature integrated GPS without requiring cellular service and are water-resistant. They’re excellent for running apps like Navionics, Aquamaps, Garmin Boating, and OpenCPN.
Lenovo M10: Another budget-friendly option, the Lenovo M10 boasts a longer battery life than most tablets. However, it can be slower to start up compared to other devices.
Microsoft Surface: Although pricier, this tablet is versatile and can be used as a backup or for secondary navigation.
App Recommendations
Navionics: Our go-to app for charts and navigation integrates seamlessly with AIS and provides detailed charting for inland waterways and coastal areas.
AquaMaps: Ideal as a secondary tool, this user-friendly app integrates with devices like Vesper for enhanced navigation.
Savvy Navvy: A comprehensive app that combines weather, tides, and charts on one screen. However, you’ll need to refresh weather data every four days, which requires an internet connection.
Pro Tip: Download your charts for offline use before leaving port to ensure you’re covered even without internet access.
📱Tablet Redundancy: Safety First
A dedicated navigation device is always the safer choice. Phones and tablets can—and often do—go overboard.
• Have at least two tablets dedicated to navigation.
• Ensure all devices are charged and ready for use.
• Use water-resistant or waterproof cases, such as bicycle mounts with Velcro straps, to protect your devices from the elements.
🗺️ Paper Charts: The Old-School Backup
While electronic tools are incredibly convenient, nothing beats the reliability of paper charts as a fail-safe backup. Always carry updated charts for the areas you’ll be cruising and know how to read them.
Why We Love Our Tech
Using tablets for navigation offers flexibility and ease of use. With integrated GPS, offline capabilities, and apps tailored for cruising, these devices can outshine many traditional chart plotters. While we rely on an iPad for primary navigation, many cruisers swear by their Samsung Galaxy Tabs for their affordability and durability.
Regardless of your chosen device, redundancy, preparation, and a good understanding of your navigation tools are key to a successful Great Loop journey.
Your Turn!
What navigation tools do you use on your boat? Are you team iPad, Samsung, or a fan of good old paper charts? Share your favorites in the comments below!
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