Must Have Marine Electronics & Accessories

After buying a boat, the first thing that comes in the mind is marine electronics. Depend on the boat brand and model you’ve and the intention to use it, a plethora of options are available for the boat accessories. GPS, radio and such other electronics are essential for any vessel today.

But how would you know which marine electronics parts you need for your boat? In this post, we will look at the must have marine electronics and accessories that suite best to the boats in Vancouver Island and other locations in Canada.

Marine GPS

The Global Positioning System (GPS) assistance is required not only on roads but also on waters. Not to be confused with a compass, a marine GPS navigation unit helps you get headed in the right direction, even if you have little/no boating experience. If you do not want to spend more money buying a fixed mount Chartplotter, a handheld GPS can also work fine for your basic navigation needs. An ideal boat GPS for sale comes in a water-resistant design with easy-to-use buttons & controls.

Fishfinder, Sonar, Depth Sounder

Fishfinder GPS combos are other recommended boat electronics. They help you identify the water's depth to avoid contact of your boat with the bottom and ensure safety at every moment. Also known as sonar, sounder, or a base machine, a fish finder comes with a large display screen and transducer. The modern, 3D fishfinders allow you to check about fish around your boat in real-time. They can be even integrated with marine chart plotters, making your fishing experience easier and more enjoyable.

Radio

Communication devices such as VHF Radios are among the most critical marine electronics that every boater should have. They allow you to talk with coast guards or other boaters from about 20 miles distance. A good-quality marine radio ranges between $100 to $2000, and a VHF antenna can be available for around $80 to $2000.

Other Useful Boat Electronics for Sale

Apart from the must-have marine electronics for your boat – radio, GPS and fishfinder – a few more additions can provide more advantage. Below is a list of the valuable electronic items that are common in boats today:

Also, you have to follow some Government guidelines and rules when you go for boating in Vancouver Island or other parts in Canada. You must carry safety equipment such as a Canadian-approved lifejacket or PFD (Personal Flotation Device) for everyone on the boat. Additionally, a buoyant with a minimum 15-meter line, a sound-signalling device, a flashlight or flares, a manual propelling device & water pump and a fire extinguisher, to name a few.

Conclusion

Safety, navigation, and finding fish are the three main facets of boat electronics that you may better focus on. Alberni Power & Marine is one of the leading new and used boat dealers in Canada, providing top-line boats, boat engines, and all types of boat electronics and accessories.

We understand that every boater is different and can have different needs (we are also boaters, high five!). Our experienced team helps you get the right marine electronics according to your boating style and requirements. We even help you with regular maintenance of your boat accessories, safety equipment and electronic systems and replace them. It ensures you follow all sets of procedures before going out on waters for an enjoyable and safe experience.