What would you buy and when?

[SonofaGunofaSailor]

OK.. new owner of a Columbia 8.3 (27')...

The boat has the following on board: Compass, Depth, Speed and a handheld VHF.

We're located in South Florida and will be doing mainly light coastal cruising and maybe a jump across to the Bahamas eventually (a year).

So.. that being said what electronics would we need and when should we add it to the boat?

Thanks in advance!

[catamount]

Fixed VHF with masthead antenna, and a basic handheld GPS would be where I would start.

[sailingdog]

I'd add that the fixed VHF should be a DSC Class D unit with two receivers in it and connected to the handheld GPS's NMEA output to provide full DSC function.

[SonofaGunofaSailor]

Thanks all.

Any brand and/or model recommendations for this?

What about using an Ipad with GPS?

[sailingdog]

Originally Posted by SonofaGunofaSailor

Thanks all.

Any brand and/or model recommendations for this?

What about using an Ipad with GPS?

Really a bad idea... if that iPad gets wet...it dies... and it isn't designed to be all that readable in daylight. Also, not designed for use with wet hands, etc.

Garmin makes some good units, but you haven't said what your budget is. Without that, it is hard to suggest anything.

[Minnewaska]

If I was installing my first mounted VHF, I would do this one hands down. You get DSC (and will allow gps interface) as well as AIS.

Welcome to StandardHorizon.com

I am going to try the Ipad idea myself. However, a waterproof case (they do make them) is a must and you should consider whether you will be able to secure it if you plan to use it in the cockpit. I'm also told that a separate gps puck is necessary, but I intend to test that theory. I already have an onboard gps/charplotter, so we'll see. I am going to buy the next gen Ipad, which I'm told will be released in the next couple of weeks.

[Minnewaska]

Originally Posted by sailingdog

Really a bad idea... if that iPad gets wet...it dies... and it isn't designed to be all that readable in daylight. Also, not designed for use with wet hands, etc.

SD. I've used an Ipad in the cockpit of an aircraft with direct sunlight to read charts. Maybe not as good as paper, but had no problem reading it at all. You should see my old tablet computer, if you want to see hard to read.

There are waterproof cases available for the Ipad, I am only assuming that you can still operate the Ipad through them. Haven't tried yet.

edit: googled Ipad waterproof case and found this. It does say you maintain full function. Also has a strap to hang around your neck. Not sure that's a great idea, but its interesting.

iPad Waterproof Case » Coolest Gadgets

[RhythmDoctor]

Originally Posted by Minnewaska

If I was installing my first mounted VHF, I would do this one hands down. You get DSC (and will allow gps interface) as well as AIS.

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I'd suggest holding out a couple of weeks for the new GX2150, which replaces the GX2100.