preprogrammed bluechart card

sailhog · #1 (**permalink**) 06-06-2007

A question for the learned panel: does anyone know where to find the preprogrammed BlueChart data cards online? I called Garmin and they want $167 for the BlueChart from Charleston to Jacksonville. I nearly soiled myself when the salesperson gave me the price. All suggestions much appreciated.
Sailhog

sailhog · #2 (**permalink**) 06-06-2007

I've been waiting over 2 MINUTES AND STILL NOT A SINGLE RESPONSE? WHAT ARE YOU PEOPLE DOING? WORKING? THIS IS AN OUTRAGE. I WANT MY MONEY BACK!

kbyte · #3 (**permalink**) 06-06-2007

I got mine at West Marine. After coupons and multiple discounts it came to $134.99.

A few months ago I took a friend sailing. After I raised the sails and cut the engine he was amazed that the boat was still moving at speed. he said "Wow, you can go anywhere you want, and it's all free!"

I said "you betcha."

CLucas · #4 (**permalink**) 06-06-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by sailhog

A question for the learned panel: does anyone know where to find the preprogrammed BlueChart data cards online? I called Garmin and they want $167 for the BlueChart from Charleston to Jacksonville. I nearly soiled myself when the salesperson gave me the price. All suggestions much appreciated.
Sailhog

Defender has it for $130 (Garmin Bluechart Regular Data Card*).

EscapadeCaliber40LRC · #5 (**permalink**) 06-06-2007

I bought chips at the West Marine in Fort Lauderdale last year. The sales guy that night had to learn how to program the cards on my nickel. After class was over, and my wallet was unloaded I had three chips to take me all the way South to Trinidad and then West to Panama, but you are right it comes at a steep price. Just remember the charts (electronic or paper) suck when you reach Hispaniola.

sailhog · #6 (**permalink**) 06-06-2007

Kbyte and CLucas:
Thank you gentlemen very much. Both excellent suggestions. Just placed the order with Defender, and got it shipped for $138.14. What do you suppose that little card cost them to make? I'm surely taking too much for granted here, as it's a fantastic technology, but they seem to be getting a little jiggy with the prices. Thanks again.
Sailhog

EscapadeCaliber40LRC · #7 (**permalink**) 06-06-2007

If you want cost in wafer form die post cut you'd have to talk with the wife, but the raw chip at a Disti probably would cost about a nickel to make and a dollar to buy. The intelligence placed on the memory chip is where the remaining value comes in. So there you have it, you pay what the market will bear. Now empty those wallets, don't mind the gun.