Chartplotter Question

[morgointroy]

I have a boat halfway through the factory right now, and of course I am already shopping for accessories. I was wondering if anybody had any suggestions about mounting a chartplotter. I am not sure whether I should mount it in the removable mount plate to starboard of the wheel, or mount it on top of the dash. Also if I get one with an internal antenna will it work if I flush mount it in the dash? And if I get one with an external antenna where is a good place to mount it? Also any suggestions on brands? I am currently looking at the Garmin 172c. Thanks.

 

[rommer]

Would help if you told us the type and size of the boat your getting.

That said I prefer an dash mounted unit that includes radar. But really need more info to make a decent recommendation.

 

[JohnH]

Don't know the size of your boat or your budget, but you might consider a larger multi-purpose display such as the Raymarine C or E series in the size most compatible with your boat. The Raymarine units use Navionics chart chips, but if you ever want to expand to radar you'll already have the display and you'll only have to spring for the radome when you are ready. I'm sure Garmin has the multi-purpose displays also.

 

[morgointroy]

Good Point. It is a 24' Stingray 240cs pocket cruiser. It does not have a radar arch. I don't plan on doing a lot of blue water travel, mostly the Hudson and Mohawk rivers. Budget is small. 200-600 range. Thanks.

 

[Unknown]

Consider the Humminbird models that are just coming out. Some use Navionics Gold and some even use the Platinum. They are quite affordable compared to similar Raymarine and Garmin units. Plus, you're never going to put radar or anything like it on that boat, so you don't need to get too crazy...

Without an arch you'll need an antenna somewhere if you get the external. I wouldn't bother - get the internal unit and mount it ON the dash someplace. The Stingray 240CS only has a small area to mount any in-dash units anyway - I'd put the VHF there...

I'd suggest getting at least a Navionics Gold-compatible unit, or whatever the lowest Blue Chart one is from Garmin. Something about being able to update the thing appeals to me. If not, you can go with the really cheap units but they are not field-updatable...

Usually most local marine retailers have sales flyers that are just starting to come out within the next few weeks. When those deals come out its the time to buy, because that's when their prices rival the West Marines of the world. I'm assuming you're having it dealer installed...