Do we still need Plotters?

This article, written by Pietro Ferri of Aqua Map, first appeared in their newsletter recently. Carolyn Shearlock of The Boat Galley later posted in their Podcast with Pietro's permission. It is a good discussion of nav apps vs. chartplotters and I asked Pietro if I could republish it in our Newsletter.

DO WE STILL NEED PLOTTERS?

Boaters have relied on chart plotters as their primary navigation tool for years.

But with the rise of mobile apps like Aqua Map, many wonder if it's time to make the switch.

The use of mobile device apps in marine navigation has become a popular alternative to traditional plotters because they have many benefits that the plotters don’t have.

But is it time to make the switch?

CHARTPLOTTER VS. MOBILE APPS

Letting go of your chart plotter for a tablet can be a complex decision.

For some boaters, it clearly makes sense to do so. They value having access to real-time updates and the lower cost. Plus, the portable multi-device accessibility is hard to ignore.

However, for others, the decision doesn't feel quite right yet. Common concerns are their mobile device's screen size, battery life, and durability.

But decisions become easier when you know your priorities. So, let's unpack what the advantages and disadvantages of each are.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF NAVIGATION APPS?

First, why consider switching in the first place?

THE MOST CURRENT INFORMATION

One of the most significant advantages of using an app like Aqua Map is the real-time updates and user-generated data.

You can easily overlay local weather, tides and currents. But also unique data like Army Corps of Engineers hydrographic surveys. And some of the most popular integrations include the Waterway Guide and Active Captain platforms.

But real-time data also plays a vital part in navigation and safety updates.

As highlighted in this BoatUS article, Aqua Map’s software reflected local buoy changes the U.S. Coast Guard made before maps of the leading Chartplotters maps did.

Real-time information on your primary navigation device is essential when navigating shallow and shifting waters (like the ICW or The Great Loop).

Immediate display of community-generated input is a significant personal and vessel safety advantage of the apps.

COST-EFFECTIVENESS

Another advantage is price. Traditional chart plotters can be a significant investment. In addition, there is frequently the added cost of professional installation and interfacing with existing equipment.

Mobile apps like Aqua Map are often significantly more cost-effective, even when you consider purchasing a dedicated mobile device, mounting hardware, and cases.

MULTI-DEVICE ACCESSIBILITY

With a mobile app, you can use the same charts and features on multiple devices, such as your phone and tablet. This can be useful for planning routes and making navigation decisions before getting on your boat.

Knowing you have the best data when onboard your boat, your friend’s boat, or even your client’s boat is a huge advantage.

Plus, sitting in the cockpit with fellow cruisers and sharing routes also becomes much easier.

COMPARING MARINE NAVIGATION APPS AND CHARTPLOTTERS

Now let's take a closer look at some of the key features of chart plotters and mobile navigation apps and compare them.

SCREENS & MOUNTING

Chartplotter screens are specifically designed to be viewed in the sun. And this is one of the most often cited and strongest arguments for chartplotters.

But newer generation “mobile devices” include a wide range of products—well beyond just phones and iPads. These devices exhibit increasingly better performance, even in terms of visibility and exposure to sunlight.

This means the comparison of screens should be made device to device, rather than on category alone.

On the other hand, chartplotters are not always located in the ideal location because of their size and wiring constraints. Sure, maybe they are easy to see when you are standing directly behind the wheel. But we often find more comfortable seats for longer trips—especially if the autopilot is on.

A device with endless mounting options can keep vital information ready at a glance and just a tap away.

Waterproofness is also a common question for boaters considering the switch.

Luckily, because of the dependence on mobile devices in most commercial and rugged environments, a wide selection of nearly indestructible waterproof housing accessories is available. However, housing and mounting accessories should be considered when comparing pricing and durability.

POWER SOURCE & CONNECTIVITY

A chartplotter is tied to your boat’s electrical system. No internal battery levels to worry about (just your boat’s).

But what happens when that electrical system suffers damage? Whether due to charging issues, battery problems, or lightning strikes, it can wipe out your chartplotter.

Mobile navigation apps are the ideal backup—at a minimum—and can be true lifesavers. But battery technology in mobile devices has become sophisticated enough to rely on for primary navigation, too. (And they can be isolated from your boat in electrical storms.)

True marine navigation maps rely on your device's internal GPS. This means they are not constrained by cellular tower access or service plans. The accuracy of an app can be just as precise as a traditional chartplotter and have the same range offshore—as long as your device has an internal GPS.

CUSTOMIZABLE FEATURES

Every boater has a preference for what navigation information they want to see the easiest on their screen.

Minimizing unnecessary information while navigating a tricky passage is a huge advantage. Apps are easy and intuitive to personalize.

Personalization of apps can include almost every screen detail, even including color and font preferences.

For example, with Aqua Map, you control map overlays such as satellite images, fishing charts, marine forecasts and local surveys. You can even personalize map data like icon sizes, AIS target sizes, and route width.

While new chartplotters are chasing to keep up with apps, they haven’t fully evolved. The user experience and level of data that navigation apps provide are still the most customizable and intuitive experience.

What about interfacing? Through NMEA connections, your boat’s hard-wired chartplotter display becomes a Multi-Functional Display (MFD). Do you lose this with your navigation app?

No. Apps can connect to external boat devices, like your AIS, depth, and wind instruments. The data is displayed on your screen.

However, one thing a traditional chartplotter can still do that an app can’t yet is overlay radar.

WHICH ELECTRONIC NAVIGATION IS BEST FOR YOU?

Permanent chartplotter, or mobile app?

Whichever you choose, we hope this helped you understand the differences and benefits of each better.

Every chartplotter and app has unique features and must be considered individually.

But when you know where the overall differences lie in your options, it’s easier to pick a solution that matches what matters most to you.