need something inexpensive that will show channel markers clearly

[caperss]

Hello all., Im new to boating and Im also color blind so picking out channel markers at a distance is very difficult. I need something inexpensive that clearly shows markers an buoys. Some suggestions will be helpful.
Thanks

 

[JimG]

You can get apps (some free, some for a few bucks) for your phone or tablet that show the markers.

Welcome to CSR!

 

[dwna1a]

I agree with Jim but the cheapest way would be to get a good chart book and pre plot your course. If you wish to stray and go exploring the charts will show all your markers and hazards. Also get a great pair of binoculars, if you can see the numbers Red is always even Green is odd.

When the CG Aux comes to a marina near you get one of their Quick Reference Guilds. It will help with warning markers such as No Wake and Cable Areas. There is an App from the CG that helps as well.

Welcome to CSR

 

[dpmulvey]

Agree w/ dwna1a. You will find as time goes on, the majority of your boating will be in the same areas. Study the charts and remember that markers also have dissimilar shapes.

If you have an iPad, you can download GPS Software (I use Garmin Bluechart) and a portable antenna (I use the Dual) and you are out of it for about $150.

 

[Ididntdoit]

I don't know about where you boat - but buoys and day markers use different shapes presumably for this very reason.....cans vs nuns, square vs triangle etc.... my dad was colorblind and I asked him once how he new if the light was red or green.....the position of the light son (red always on top).......well duh......just never thought of that

 

[northshore]

EarthNC is a good charting app for Android devices

 

[brewster16]

Agree w/ dwna1a. You will find as time goes on, the majority of your boating will be in the same areas. Study the charts and remember that markers also have dissimilar shapes.

If you have an iPad, you can download GPS Software (I use Garmin Bluechart) and a portable antenna (I use the Dual) and you are out of it for about $150.

David, when you said "portable antenna (I use Dual)" what exactly do you mean by that? The reason I ask is that I have Garmin Bluechart on my Ipad but have no way of using it while underway. Any and all data points, routes etc. I set before my trips but the information is not continually updated when I'm moving for lack of any internet away from my marina?

 

[tonykdr]

I think he means this. gps.dualav.com

 

[dpmulvey]

Tonykdr is correct.

The 150 is the one I use.

http://gps.dualav.com/explore-by-lifestyle/marine/


The accuracy is incredible.

The rubber non skid casing sticks like glue to the dash. The glass and frame do not seem to affect it.

I leave the puck plugged into the cigarette lighter and the iPad into it's AC charger. I need to work that one out as the cords are unsightly, but hey, it's a boat and everything is a tradeoff.

 

[Alegria]

Ditto on the DUAL XPS150. I use it too. Fast satellite fix and good battery life too. Not all bluetooth GPS will work with the iPAD you have to get one specifically designed to work with the iPAD.... Or jailbreak your iPAD and install software that allows any Bluetooth GPS to work. I found it easier to just buy the GPS that works with the iPAD. That says something since I had two Bluetooth GPS laying around and I did jailbreak my iPAD, but bonding was a bit flaky at times.

You can find the GPS on Amazon. I like the GARMIN blue charts on the iPAD as well.

 

[Madifonzo]

Just as a reference, cellular capable iPads have GPS receivers built in. Non-cellular models do not. You do need to make sure to download the maps for the area though. If you have cell signal maps will update automatically.

 

[K3d111]

I Have a Garmin 7610xsv w/18 XHD and love it, but also use my iPad with Navionics App installed, paid a little extra and got the detailed maps on the iPad. I have found that both are great for lake navigating. I also use active captain app on the ipad for local knowledge and finding great areas to anchor.