Sea-Key

[johnalphonsus]

Hi, I posted this message earlier on another category, but response was low and a user suggested I post it here instead, so here it is:

Hello. I recently purchased a 46 foot 1977 Bertram Motor Yacht. I will be renovating it a lot and would like to protect my investment. I am considering a boat security system, namely Sea-Key. I understand they have a version 2 out now. Anyway, could anyone who has one or knows about these units please provide me with information and your opinion. I want to make sure it's worth getting. Any feedback at all will be greatly appreciated. Please feel free to email me at johnalphonsus**gmail.com as well. Also, if you know any better products, let me know.

Thanks,
John

 

[zolna]

John, there are currently two versions of the Sea Key system...version 1.0 and version 2.0....I have had the original system since 2003 (when it was actiually introduced as Genmars' First Mate).....overall I am very satisfied with the services - although I have had a few issues with the original SatCom unit (since replaced by Sea Key) and I take issue with their $50 recommissioning charge each spring when the boat is launched - but at least now you can sign up for a per month charge as opposed to the initial mandatory annual monitoring charge.
I was able to track the boat from my personal computer on it's 10 hour delivery route from my dealer when I purchased the boat. Since then I have received 3 warning notices regarding low battery conditions on the boat (including one where the house battery failed mid-week and I was able to replace it before the weekend and not lose any boating time). The other feature that I really like is the geo-fence (or stolen boat monitor).....I know it works as on a couple of outings I had failed to disarm it and as soon as I exceeded the fence parrameters I received a private call advising of the alarm. All of the alarms and the boats position can be monitored from your computer via their secured site.
At the Miami Show I inquired about upgrading to version 2 (more features with a beter read-out) but the two versions are not compatible. I believe that version 2 is somewhere in the $2,000 range plus installation and fees. I do not believe that version 1 is still available.. Sea Key was originallly invented by Volvo Penta but has since been spun off as a separate entity but is still jointly marketed by both (Sea Key was in the Volvo Penta booth at Miami)
If I can answer any other questions, let me know.

 

[Big Bliss]

I too have a Sea Key 1 on a 2005 boat. I received so far one alarm, but an important one, high water. Water connection broke at the water heater. Got the within minutes.
The SOS button on the dash is certainly an additional safety feature and independent of your electronics so a truely redundant safety system in addition to the distress button on my VHF.

I have set the fence to a mile radius from my slip when not on the boat. That is all my mechanic needs to do test runs or to have the boat pulled.

I have not used any of their "OnStar" type services as to making reservations etc.