Must Have Apps For Your New Or Used Boat In 2020

Some seasoned boaters may be hesitant to use phone applications for boating. But after just spending even a few minutes with a couple of these apps, even the most hardened sailor is likely to be converted. The apps of today allow sailors to plan, share, navigate, and post about their boating adventures.

But which apps are the ones worth having? Continue reading, and we’ll show you the best apps for new boats and used boats alike.

 

Vessel View Mobile App

If you’re operating a Mercury engine that was in made in 2004 or later, then you should consider getting this free app and Bluetooth module ($275). Here’s how it works:

You plug the model into your engine’s diagnostic port. You then place the resistor end into the female socket that’s on the harness of the module. The device lights up when you turn the key on.

This will indicate that it’s reading the engine. Through Bluetooth, the module will be able to communicate with your Android or iOS device. When you open the app, you’ll be able to connect to the physical module.

Make sure that you turn on the locations services on your device so the app can access GPS info. Now, the application will be able to provide you with information about hazards, fuel access, local port information, and it can help you with managing fuel.

The app is also going to keep track of your engine hours and let you know when you know what you need to get done at your next service interval. And just like a mechanic, the application will be able to let you know if operating errors occur. It will also alert you if you have to make port ASAP or if you can afford to wait.

 

U.S. Coast Guard Mobile App

The U.S. Coast Guard mobile app will let you know about all of the important safety information for boating in your state. The application will tell give you helpful services and information, including a checklist for boating safety equipment. Through the app, you also have the opportunity to ask for a free safety check for your boat.

Are you taking a long trip or a weekend vacation? You can file an official float plan through the app so your family and friends can know what you’ll be up to. You can also find navigation rules in the app too.

On the app, you can also report safety hazards, suspicious activity, and pollution. Plus, the app gives realtime weather reports from the weather buoys nearest to you.

Perhaps the best feature on the app is the emergency assistance button. If you can’t use your radio for whatever reason, you use the app to call 911 or the nearest Coast Guard command center.

And the best part is that this app is free on Google Play and the Apple App Store.

 

INavX

While you probably don’t want to use this application as your only method of navigation, it’s still handy to have on board. When it comes to smartphones, you’ll be hardpressed to find a better navigation app. When you download the app, you can get access to NOAA raster charts and navigate by markers, contours, and plenty of other helpful details.

After you set your destination, a navigation bar will show up and give you data such as ETA, course, and speed. Plus, this app lets you overlay and download satellite SSTs, weather radar, and other GRIB data. And it only costs $24.99 to use on your tablet or phone.

 

FishWeather

If you’re an angler, this mobile app is a must-have. Anyone who goes fishing enough knows how troublesome it can be to get caught in what seems like never-ending gusts of wind. Luckily, there’s FishWeather.

This app provides you with its own weather station network. You also get access to over 50,000 other weather stations throughout the world. You’ll never be taken by surprise by the wind again.

This app covers bay waters, oceans, rivers, and lakes. And the basic app is free, but you can pay for premium versions too.

This app tells you what the current winds are (gusts, direction, and speed). It also tells you about the waves (frequency, direction, and height) in realtime.

One of the coolest features, though, is the short-term forecasts that it gives you for specific locations. It gives you hour-by-hour forecasts that are extremely accurate for both wind direction and speed.

This way, you’ll know beforehand if you need to pack and head back to land or if you’re good to stay out there and keep angling.

 

Swell Advantage

Do you have friends or family who are out on the open water? Swell Advantage is helpful because it lets you know that your loved ones are safe. The app shows you the location of your friends who are on the water.

It even shows you how fast they’re going and the location that they’re heading to. This app is especially handy for parents. And, it’s free for both Android and Apple devices.

 

The Importance of Knowing About the Must Have Apps for New Boats and Old Boats

Boating isn’t like how it’s used to be. Now, there are plenty of apps for new boats and old ones that make allow you to focus more of your attention on what you love most, enjoying the water.

Are you looking to purchase a new boat? Contact us today and see how we can help you!