Boats Electronics News

Bradford Marine sold to Fort Lauderdale Yacht Harbor

Bradford Marine rang in the new year with new ownership closing on January 2, 2019. Fort Lauderdale Yacht Harbor (FLHY) acquired Bradford Marine's Fort Lauderdale and Bahamas refit-service shipyards and its brokerage division.Paul Engle will continue as Bradford's president; he told YachtingJournal.com. “To fund improvements, the new owners will be injecting additional capital into both yards.”Incorporated in 1969, Bradford aims to be a megayacht destination shipyard, insomuch as it is surrounded by South Florida’s marine industry titans…

New MOB100 AIS Beacon for Man Over Board

Digital Yacht have teamed up with SIMY to create the World’s smallest AIS MOB Beacon (personal SART). SIMY is a division of space company Syrlinks (designers of the Rosetta probe) who specialize in miniaturizing and low power electronics.The AIS MOB100 Beacon incorporates a super sensitive 72 channel GPS and AIS SART transmitter. When activated, it sends the MOB casualty’s current location as an AIS transmission which can be detected by any vessel equipped with an AIS transponder or even a simple AIS receiver. All Digital Yacht AIS products are fully compatible with AIS MOB/SART transmissions.

Yacht Uses Alert for Rescue off the Solomon Islands

Two people were rescued after their Personal Locator Beacon alerted HM Coastguard to the fact their yacht was in trouble off the Solomon Islands.The Coastguard received the alert from the British-flagged vessel just after 9pm last night (December 13) from a position within Solomon Sea, about 20 miles south of San Jorge Island. In turn, HM Coastguard contacted the Maritime Rescue Control Center at Honiara and the authorities there began the search and rescue. A passing merchant vessel picked up two people, safe and well at around 4am (14 December).

Captains, Crew Live Off The Grid With Marine CORE

Marine CORE, an innovative communications hub for yacht captains and crew, may change communication from sea. With four hotspots in one device, Marine CORE has a small footprint and tremendous capabilities, commanding communication in the U.S. and internationally.Distributed by Florida-based EC Ruff Marine for Agile Marine Solutions, Marine CORE deploys high-performance LTE service for HD streaming and Internet for constant communication with a strong connection in the air, on land and sea.

Superyachts Being Targeted by Eavesdroppers

High net worth individuals are becoming increasingly concerned about being bugged on their superyachts, according to a leading expert.Matt Horan, security director of C3IA Solutions, said his teams of ‘bug sweepers’ have been expanded to deal with the extra workload.In recent months a number of huge, privately-owned vessels have been swept by the company’s Technical Surveillance Counter Measures (TSCM) teams.Some owners have erroneously thought that being at sea gave them more…

New Range Of Class B+ AIS Transponders at METS 2018

Digital Yacht America will introduce a new range of Class B+ AIS transponders at METS 2018 ready for delivery January 2019 in the US.Class B+, a new AIS standard, utilizes SOTDMA format transmissions which offer a 5W power output (2.5x more powerful than a regular Class B), a guaranteed time slot for transmission in busy traffic areas and faster update rates depending upon the speed of the vessel.It offers performance similar to Class A transponder but for non mandated users.

Garmin and Yacht Controller Strategic Partnership

Yacht Controller, well known for providing “innovative technology for the marine industry”, has announced the integration of the Yacht Controller information and control panel on compatible Garmin multifunction displays (MFDs) with OneHelm functionality. This integration allows Yacht Controller and Garmin users to take advantage of the Garmin display for accessing the Yacht Controller panel during their maneuvers, thereby having a vivid color visual and easy method to start and see the system without the need for another dedicated Yacht Controller screen on their boat.Gerald Berton…

Best Yachts, News from FLIBS

Nearly 2,000 megayacht captains blared their boat horns in unison for one full minute on Sunday night at exactly 6 p.m., a traditional symphony of ocean commotion signaling the official end of yet another FLIBS or Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.The consensus is the 58th consecutive FLIBS was one of the best shows in many years. Propelled by a strong economy and two, active hurricane seasons prompting new vessel purchases, repairs and refits, the five day show from October 31 - November 4 was well attended.

Lowrance Unveils Link-9 Fixed Mount VHF Radio

Lowrance released its latest VHF radio, Link-9, designed as a replacement for the current Link-8. The upgrade features a sleek, industrial design with a large, intuitive interface, removable fist microphone, built-in AIS receiver and a front-mountable mechanical design for easy installation.With its integrated GPS receiver, Lowrance Link-9 now has four ways to ensure GPS reliability in the event of an emergency. A GPS antenna in the face of the radio is perfect for open-air installations, and the SMA connector can be coupled with a GPS-500 antenna.

Simrad Launches New RS40 VHF Radio

The new Simrad RS40 features a sleek design with wireless handset capability, removable fist microphone, Class D DSC functionality and built-in GPS, the Simrad RS40 replaces the RS35 with significantly upgraded VHF radio functionality.With its integrated GPS receiver, the Simrad RS40 now has four ways to ensure GPS reliability in the event of an emergency. A GPS antenna in the face of the radio is perfect for open-air installations, and the SMA connector can be coupled with a GPS-500 antenna.

Digital Yacht Opens Showroom for Superyacht Electronics

Digital Yacht have opened a showroom and demo office in Mallorca to cater for the growing superyacht market. It's located at MC Palma, a new permenant marine display and showroom facility just opposite the Club de Mar marina complex.MC Palma is home to lots of brands including Digital Yacht, Zhik Clothing, NautiBuoy and OceanAir. It offers a permanent display space, adjacent to the yachting community so Captains, Owners and Installers can view and demo the latest marine equipment, get advice and specify systems.

A Convergence of Propulsion Technology

The latest state-of-the-art propulsion controls were demonstrated aboard Yanmar’s 30-ft RIB Scorpion at IBEX in Tampa last week.Dockmate’s advanced wireless remote control system was fully integrated with Glendinning’s new Genesys Pro Pilot engine controls and the innovative VETUS BOW PRO Series thruster.The handheld wireless Dockmate transmitter took complete control of the engines and bow thruster once it was engaged, allowing the boat to be fully maneuvered without the driver at the helm.The cutting-edge products will be aboard the Scorpion once again during the VETUS Demo Day on October 9…

Marine Trader Trawler Refit Evokes Style, Decorator Flair

Vision, the relentless pursuit of perfection and a large bankroll transformed this 43-foot trawler into a beautiful yacht with an extensive range of amenities.Manufactured by Marine Trader in 1984, M/Y The Giuliana is a collector Sundeck Trawler restored with exquisite brightwork, impeccable woodworking and joinery detail with decorator nautical flare.With a complete retrofit in 2015, the owner stripped her down from stem to stern, restoring with a megayacht-quality interior and amenities of a new…

Navico Launches Nautical Navigation App

marine electronics manufacturer Navico has launched C-MAP Embark, a nautical navigation app designed to refresh the planning, cruising and fishing experience with a clear aim in mind — to make it simpler.C-MAP Embark is powered by map data from official hydrographic offices. This data is continuously updated and augmented from thousands of data sources to help complete gaps in coastal and inland water bodies, providing C-MAP Embark users with exceptional clarity where it matters most.

ASA Electronics Introduces Polk Sound System

ASA Electronics has introduced a new marine sound system, the Polk Ultramarine Complete DSP Sound System.The system includes a brand new Polk UM2 stereo as well as a full suite of powerful Polk speakers and subwoofers. What sets this system apart is the Polk Digital Signal Processor (DSP) that uses a patented algorithm to automatically adjust and remaster music in real time.The Polk Ultramarine Complete DSP Sound System is a fully matched system, meaning each element is specially calibrated for each boat model to work together in the most efficient way possible.

American Bass Expands Marine Audio Line

American Bass, USA, has introduced a series of speakers for use in boat stereo systems. The new offerings include the AB-MRE 7.2F, the AB-MRE 6.9F and the AB-MRE 6.5F, which have been designed to deliver optimal sound on the open water. The series is available for purchase on the manufacturer’s marine audio website.Bob Ahuja, American Bass chief executive officer, said, “Our speakers are highly engineered to exceed all marine use standards, but are available at a very competitive price.”American Bass offers a full line of amplifiers and full-range speakers for use in the marine market.

SeaKing Electrical Announces Superyacht Sector Growth

Maritime engineering company SeaKing Electrical announced its busiest year in a decade for superyacht work ahead of its attendance at the Monaco Boat Show.Liverpool City Region based SeaKing Electrical has sent teams to work on 18 superyacht repair and upgrade projects in the nine months until September beating its previous record of 17 jobs in all of 2017. The company has worked in the Mediterranean in Cadiz, Cartagena, Genoa, La Ciotat and Barcelona as well as Miami in the United…

Cobham Launches New SAILOR GX Terminal

Cobham SATCOM's new SAILOR 100 GX High Power Fleet Xpress user terminal is a compact 1 meter, 3-axis stabilized Ka-band user terminal specifically designed to enable Inmarsat’s newly launched high data rate plans packaged for bandwidth-hungry segments, such as offshore support vessels (OSV), global cruise and superyachts. Delivering twice the RF power of standard GX terminals, the SAILOR 100 GX High Power dramatically improves the economics of pushing large amounts of data from ship to shore…

It’s Party Time

Super yachts require super performance in everything from communication to entertainment. When it comes to the power of music from marine audio entertainment systems, the Garmin-owned, Fusion Entertainment is always at the cutting edge when it comes to quality, style and innovation. The company’s recently launched Apollo Series and Panel Stereo, along with the all-new black Signature Speakers are no exception.According to Chris Baird, managing director of New-Zealand based Fusion Entertainment…

New Yacht Tender is 100% Electric

Avon (Zodiac Nautic Group) & Torqeedo launch the eJET 450, a 100 percent electric tender.After introducing the first jet tender to the world in 1991 and revamping the landscape of the luxury yacht tender through its Avon brand for over 20 years, Zodiac Nautic is doubling down on its commitment to keep exploring the future of the boating industry.Together with Germany-based Torqeedo, Avon has developed the eJET 450, a 100 percent electric tender that solves the most pressing problems faced by yacht owners: carrying fuel for tenders…

Raytheon Anschütz INS for Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, together with the Spanish Barreras shipyard of Vigo, have selected Raytheon Anschütz to supply a high-end Integrated Navigation System (INS) of the Synapsis NX generation for the first vessel of a new class of most advanced passenger ships.The INS is part of a larger contract awarded to ABB’s Marine and Ports Business, who are acting as the total ship system provider and integrator to the new class of ships. ABB and Raytheon Anschütz have entered…

Wärtsilä Rolls Out New Solid State Radar

Wärtsilä introduced its new Nacos Platinum solid state S-Band radar system at the SMM trade fair in Hamburg.The next generation marine radar offering promotes safety via optimized target detection, regardless of the prevailing environmental conditions, the manufacturer said. Furthermore, the compact design enhances system reliability, while the elimination of a magnetron creates a reduction in maintenance costs compared to conventional radar systems.“Wärtsilä’s smart marine vision is to utilize the latest technologies…

Digital Yacht Unveils New Smart NMEA Interface

Sailors like the idea of using an iPad, tablet or smart phone for on board navigation with their simple touch screen interface and vast range of charting and instrument apps.Digital Yacht’s new WLN10 Smart NMEA to wifi gateway takes integration afloat even further with the ability to connect to existing on board GPS, AIS and instrument systems and transfer the data wirelessly to the tablet – allowing compatible apps to display and compute with real time information. The WLN10 creates a password protected wifi network and apps don't need an internet connection to function.When connected to…

Scout Boats Partners with Lumitec

Lumitec, a designer and manufacturer of extreme environment LED lighting solutions, has been announced as the official lighting supplier for Scout Boats for the builder's primary lighting needs for the 2019 model year.Scout Boats design and manufacture world-class luxury boats, packed with timeless innovations, technology and trendsetting features. Their commitment to quality and performance shows in the meticulous attention to detail in their products and is also reflected in the products they choose to place on their boats.

MARCOM Opens Florida Service Center

With the recent opening of its new service station in Florida, Trinidad & Tobago based MARCOM says it is ready to expand service assistance and faster coordination of spare parts to customers whose vessels call ports in the Caribbean, Central and South America and the Southeastern U.S.MARCOM was  founded  in 2004 by a team of marine electronic engineers, legal advisers, economists and master mariners who came together to offer sales and services to the marine electronics industry.

This Shore Power Cable Set is Watertight

Water and electricity do not mix. Having a waterproof shore power cable set is of vital importance to the safety of boaters and their watercraft. Hubbell Marine 30A models incorporate a molded design, completely encased in solid PVC material, to ensure reliable waterproofing and superior durability.The 30A Cable Set with LED "Power-ON" Indicator features a high intensity light that glows bright green when power is on. This makes it easy to verify if shore power connections carry live current.

ADIBS Primed as Gateway to $60mln Industry

The changing face of the Middle East’s marine industry and the immense potential of Abu Dhabi’s marine sector will be thrown into the spotlight as the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show (ADIBS) gets underway from October 17-20, 2018. Organized and hosted by Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), ADIBS will be a gateway to the unlimited market potential and opportunities of the country’s marine sector, which is currently estimated at US$ 60 billion.Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri…

​​​​This Device May Know More About the Boat Than Its Owner

Not knowing whether on board systems are functioning or if the vessel is where it should be is worrisome. With the new ZigBoat from Glomex Marine Antennas USA, owners have absolute peace-of-mind that the boat is safe and protected, no matter its size. It's a modular wireless system that can monitor everything from water in the bilge to movement on the deck. It's all easily tracked on a smartphone and if something goes awry, it will trigger a notification and can instantly send an SMS message.Without wires, cables and drilling holes, installing ZigBoat couldn't be simpler.

mazu: New SportFishing App

mazu announced the launch of the its SportFishing app, which gives anglers weather and sea state information, as well as provides communications capabilities via satellite. The mazu SportFishing app links with mazu’s m2500 hardware to offer global service using the Iridium satellite network.mazu SportFishing offers a method of in-app connectivity with its innovative mazuChat. This functionality centralizes communication with friends and other sports fishermen, allowing anglers to quickly and easily relay information on a private and reliable connection.

Maritime Distress Beacon Gains North American Approval

Orolia’s McMurdo SmartFind G8 AIS Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) has been approved by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) Canada.The world’s first EPIRB to contain both the international 406 MHz alert frequency and the localized rescue power of the Automatic Identification System (AIS), the McMurdo SmartFind G8 AIS is now ready to order for leisure and commercial maritime use across the U.S.

NavPod Unveils New Electronics Protection Line

NavPod, a manufacturer of waterproof housings for marine electronics, has announced an all new product line – the PedestalPod 70 Degree. The new line is specifically designed for protection of marine electronics on the bow of sportfishing boats.PedestalPods are better than bracket mounting and position electronic displays 12-inches above the deck at an ideal 70-degree viewing angle. The tough and rugged, black powder coated 4-inch aluminum pedestal base is designed to accommodate the latest trend towards larger 12- and 16-inch displays.

New VR Technology to Transform Yachting, Shipping Industries

The global yachting and shipping industries are queuing up to adopt the very latest in immersive virtual reality visualization, mapping and design technology developed at The Landing, MediaCityUK. VR solutions designed specifically for the yachting industry, as well as for the merchant shipping sector, have been developed by Sam Slater and Richard Hooson, from Manchester, the flagship being their ground breaking Digital Twin application which is set to revolutionize the marine industry.

Navico and C-MAP Announce Merger

Navico – manufacturer of marine electronics and C-MAP – supplier of digital navigation products to the recreational and commercial marine market – announced that they have merged. Effective immediately, C-MAP will become another powerful brand in the Navico portfolio -- alongside Lowrance, Simrad and B&G.The merger will accelerate the companies’ shared ambition to create the world’s biggest digital marine ecosystem and deliver the best experiences for customers around the world.

Marine Electronics: ComNav P4 Autopilot

ComNav has launched the new P4 Autopilot, an adaptive autopilot system designed for all vessel types.Featuring a large 5.7” display, the ComNav P4 autopilot was built for effortless operation and intuitive control with easily accessible, customizable parameters for commercial fleets, fishing boats, yachts, and tugs. The P4 is equipped with ComNav’s Intelligent Steering Technology or ‘IST’.The P4 has automatic Sea State adjustment for course holding in all weather conditions. With proportional rate control, the unit supplies a smooth response at fast cruising speeds.

FLIR Introduces Raymarine Axiom XL Multifunction Displays

Today, FLIR Systems, Inc. announced the introduction of the Raymarine Axiom XL line of multifunction displays (MFDs) and the immediate availability of two Axiom XL models. Designed for premium yachts and glass bridge installations, Axiom XL displays offer the largest size in the Axiom family. Engineered to perform in extreme marine conditions, the Axiom XL family is fully waterproof and can be installed in both open cockpits and enclosed bridge stations. Each model uses in-plane switching (IPS) and Raymarine’s optical bonding display technology to deliver wider viewing angles…

Superyacht "Lady A" Uses Marine Software

U.K. based Marine Software supplied the Superyacht "Lady A" with the Marine Purchasing (MPSWin) package. This comes after successful implementation of the Marine Planned Maintenance (MPMWin) package, where Marine Software originally constructed the planned maintenance database to incorporate main machinery and ancillary equipment.Lady A's Ship Manager has installed the office package, combined with Marine Software’s Cloud based data replication services (ADR), allowing them to monitor planned maintenance activities…

Superyacht Summer: Italian Yachts Lead

The summer season in most of Europe has been off to a sunny and warm start, which has many longingly wishing to spend time at sea. Those with access to the privileged world of Superyachts will be looking forward to getting underway and traveling the world. It’s a great time to be a yacht owner, but the follow-on is that due to the increased utilization, the number of willing sellers typically drops. This leads to a slowdown in the sale and purchase activity and can be a good time for yacht brokers to look at taking their own summer breaks.

KVH Unveils New LTE System for Offshore Internet Access

Satellite communications provider KVH Industries, Inc. announced it is introducing an all-in-one solution for boaters looking for higher data speeds and greater Internet range offshore than what the average cellphone can provide.The new TracPhone LTE-1 marine communications system is designed to provide Internet access in U.S. waters more than 20 miles offshore, with data download speeds up to 100 Mbps. The LTE-A (LTE Advanced) system is compact and affordable enough for a vast…

Easier Access to UK Tidal Data

The U.K. Hydrographic Office has released a new ADMIRALTY application programming interface (API) that puts U.K. tidal data in the hands of software developers.The U.K. Tidal API gives developers access to accurate data from the U.K.’s largest authoritative network of tidal stations, allowing them to build tidal height and time predictions into their own online applications. These predictions can be useful for a wide range of coastal activities, whether choosing the best time to go surfing and sailing around the U.K.’s beaches…

Glomex Expands Internet Antenna with Pro Model

Glomex Marine Antennas USA has enhanced its Internet antenna with a professional model. Its weBBoat 4G PRO features commercial-grade construction and components, including an upgraded router and advanced software, and comes with a five-year warranty.The weBBoat 4G PRO receives 4G/3G and Wi-Fi signals up to 20 miles away, and amplifies and redistributes them throughout the vessel via a hotspot or Ethernet. Dual SIM card slots and 4G diversity wideband antennas combine with a high-performance 3G/4G router to provide simultaneous Internet access for up to 32 devices…

Superyacht Refit with FarSounder Sonar

Marel Electronics, FarSounder’s dealer in Greece, commissioned a FarSounder-500 on a refit project of a 120m superyacht. Marel was contracted to supply, connect, integrate, and commission the system. Chalkis Shipyard in Greece mounted the sonar directly on the hull per the drawings provided by the ship’s naval architect under the guidance and with the assistance of the FarSounder technical team. “With a FarSounder-500 aboard, bridge officers expect to increase the ship’s safety when approaching coastal shallow water areas” said Kyriakos Alexopoulos of Marel Electronics.

FUSION Shifts Audio Entertainment Paradigm with Apollo Series

FUSION has announced the launch of the Apollo Series marine audio entertainment system.The flagship of the new Apollo Series, the FUSION RA770 is said to be the world’s first purpose-built marine entertainment system with a one-piece glass touchscreen display, featuring built-in Wi-Fi streaming, Digital Signal Processing Technology (DSP) and PartyBus capabilities. Featuring an optically bonded, full-color LCD display, the RA770’s one-piece glass touchscreen makes trying to locate the correct button a thing of the past.

Vesper Marine Launches Watchmate Vision2

Vesper Marine, manufacturer of marine safety products, has announced the evolution of the world’s first and only touchscreen Class B AIS transponder with the introduction of the WatchMate Vision2.The Vision2 has a new look with a seamless black-bezel front panel and glossy black sides, designed to complement any helm or nav station. Vision2 features a highly responsive, easy to use capacitive touchscreen, allowing users to scroll through menus, zoom in and out, select vessels for additional details and navigation data, change alarm settings and more with the gentlest of touches.

Marine Electronics Heist Thwarted

GOST (Global Ocean Security Technologies), a provider of marine security, tracking, monitoring and video surveillance systems, announced that its GOST NT-Evolution 2.0 security system was instrumental in thwarting an attempted electronics theft off of a 39-foot Invincible in West Palm Beach, Fla.The GOST NT-Evolution 2.0’s sensors tripped the moment the thieves stepped onboard, triggering the system’s siren and strobe and alerting the customer of the attempted intrusion via automated call, text and email.

New Low-cost AIS Receiver Unveiled

Many ports and maritime offices want the benefit of a local AIS feed to see shipping activity, ETAs and movements. Digital Yacht's AISNet+ AIS base station is a low cost AIS receiver designed for just this application with a network port for connecting to local computer networks or to the internet for relaying of local signals to services like Marine Traffic and other internet based AIS monitoring solutions. It also has a USB connection for a simple plug 'n play connection to a local computer and the package includes viewing software for Windows.

Simrad Updates Navigation Displays

Simrad Yachting announced the release of a new software update for NSS evo3, NSS evo2, NSO evo2 and GO Series displays that includes sonar enhancements, new automatic routing functionality, C-MAP charting improvements and touchscreen control of MotorGuide Xi5 trolling motors. At the heart of the release is FishReveal, an exciting new sonar feature that makes fish easier to see on DownScan Imaging. The upgrade also includes significant enhancements to StructureScan 3D and StructureScan HD…

Marina Reservation App Launched

GPDock, the new community-based online reservation system designed to make the process of reserving a marina slip easier than ever before, announced the launch of its first and free mobile app, available for iOS and Android. For Boaters, the app offers an opportunity to book marinas the same way they book hotel rooms. With the app, they can access a large database of marinas in the U.S. and the Caribbean, compare amenities, read customer reviews, and book directly 24/7. Additionally, they can pay for fuel or any other services at selected marinas.

Sea Tel 9711 Triband Maritime Antenna System Launched

Satellite 2018 marks the launch of Cobham SATCOM’s Sea Tel 9711 Triband maritime antenna system, which leverages unique technology and capabilities from global communications company Viasat Inc. The Sea Tel 9711 Triband is the world’s first and only 2.4m maritime stabilized antenna capable of delivering full 2.4m gain performance across any C-, Ku-, or Ka-band network to maximize high-speed, high-quality broadband connectivity for high-demand maritime segments, such as Cruise, Energy and Government.

B&G debuts Zeus3 Glass Helm Series

B&G has introduced the Zeus3 Glass Helm series. Designed specifically for blue-water sailing, multihulls and superyachts, this premium, super-fast, large-screen, multi-function display sits at the heart of a fully integrated navigation system. The B&G Zeus3 Glass Helm has an ultra-bright, wide-angle, full HD display featuring an all-weather, easy-to-use touch screen and a low-profile, glass design. Whether it’s planning a route, checking for obstacles and weather on the radar display…

SKY Perfect JSAT to Invest $4.5 Mln in KVH

KVH Industries, Inc., announced today that its longtime satellite capacity partner SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation (SJC) has agreed to invest $4.5 million in KVH as part of the two companies’ ongoing commitment to deliver next-generation maritime broadband services. KVH and SJC intend to collaborate on value-added services in the area of shipping digitalization and improved broadband access at sea. SJC agreed to purchase $4.5 million of KVH common stock in a private placement at a purchase price of $11.95 per share…

4G Connect: Internet Afloat for Commercial Users

Now available in most coastal areas, 4G LTE cellular connectivity provides a very effective, low cost and fast solution for internet connectivity while in port or coastal waters when users want fast access for entertainment and browsing. Digital Yacht said its new 4G Connect solution is geared for workboat, ferry and utility users as well as commercial ships, is simple to fit and can offer ranges of up to 20NM offshore with super-fast connect speeds. Priced at £499 ex vat, the 4G Connect Pro system is available now and ships with two 45cm external antennas and uses MIMO technology.

Beijer Electronics Unveils X2 Extreme Panels

Beijer Electronics has rolled out its new X2 extreme family of rugged HMIs for tough environments. X2 extreme panels are certified by all major classification societies. Designed to perform in rugged environments and in hazardous areas where gases, vapors and dust are present. Extended environmental capabilities include operating temperatures from -30°C to +70°C, high vibrations and high-pressure wash-downs. X2 extreme panels are available in 7, 12 and 15 inches, all in three versions: Standard versions, high-performance versions and fully sealed high-performance versions.

Raymarine: Make Your Boat a 'Smart Boat'

Digital switching makes it easy and intuitive to control all of the interior and exterior lighting on this high-performance centre console powerboat. Anchor lights, Aerators, Bilge Pumps, Blowers, Cabin Lights, Courtesy Lights....does this sequence sound familiar? It's the switch panel on your helm and it's just part of the A to Z listing of your boat's electrical equipment. In addition to switches and alarms, indicator lights and gauges cover many portions of a boat's helm and interior.

Raymarine Launches New AIS Transceiver

Raymarine, a brand by FLIR systems, has announced the launch of its new Automatic Identification System (AIS) transceiver featuring an integrated antenna splitter. The new Raymarine AIS700 Class B transceiver enables boat owners to share the same antenna with their onboard VHF equipment making installation much easier, tidier and less expensive. Delivering the best-in-class performance, the AIS700 uses the latest networking technologies for faster updating, increased bandwidth and better range.

Glomex Marine Antennas' weBBoat

The Glomex Marine Antennas' weBBoat 4G Plus coastal Internet antenna system receives Wi-Fi and 3G/4G cellular signals up to 20 miles from shore, and amplifies and redistributes them as a hotspot within the boat, helping those on the water to stay in constant touch with the world. weBBoat 4G Plus provides simultaneous access for up to 32 devices. It has dual SIM card slots to minimize data roaming charges while maximizing cellular coverage. In LTE mode, speeds can be as high as 100 Mbps on download and 50 Mbps on upload.

New Owner Takes Over at WESMAR

Bruce H. Blakey, founder and President of WESMAR (Western Marine Electronics), has sold his company to local businessman Roger Fellows, effective November 1, 2017. Blakey has sold the company to a new innovator whom he says is poised to take the company and its products to new heights. The name of the company will remain the same. Headquarter operations will remain in Woodinville, Wash. and employees will remain with the company, says its new owner and president Fellows. “WESMAR is impressive,” Fellows said.

Jackson to Direct Global Marketing at KVH

Elizabeth Jackson has joined KVH Industries, Inc. as chief marketing officer and senior vice president for strategy.   Jackson has worked at a variety of companies including Proctor & Gamble, Campbell Soup Company, Summer Infant, and HookLogic, a Bain Capital Ventures portfolio company in ad tech performance marketing. Most recently, Jackson was CMO at DOTS Technology Corp, an NEA portfolio company in health tech.   Jackson has a B.A. from Princeton University and an MBA from INSEAD in France.

Marlink Buys Majority Stake in OmniAccess

Apax Partners backed Marlink said it has signed a definite agreement to acquire a majority stake in fellow maritime VSAT services firm OmniAccess. The transaction remains subject to customary regulatory approval and closing is expected in the first half of 2018. OmniAccess’ existing management team will remain unchanged and continue to keep a significant shareholding in the company. OmniAccess will remain a stand-alone company, functioning as the competence center for broadband connectivity solutions for the high-end superyacht and boutique cruise-line customers.

Safebridge Launches SafeYacht

SafeYacht opens up a professional dimension to the training of sport skippers. Safebridge, a Hamburg-based company training international commercial shipping navigators since 2009, with SafeYacht extends its portfolio to recreational boating. SafeYacht is a cross-platform application which uses the e-learning methodology as a unique feature and gives the access to the software of the final device. A new online training enables sailors and motor boat drivers to deal with their navigation systems as thoroughly like professionals on large vessels.

Beagle Star to Use Inmarsat’s Fleet Xpress for Superyachts

Inmarsat has launched a new and flexible Fleet Xpress plan for superyachts to address the seasonal luxury market, and through its partner e3 Systems has signed up the first superyacht Beagle Star V, a luxury sail yacht, to the plan. The award-winning Fleet Xpress service has become the fastest growing VSAT service in the 2017 commercial shipping market. With additional flexibility being a key demand for the superyacht industry, where voice and video calls, entertainment and social media can vary widely during the season…

Lumitec Celebrates 10 Years

Lumitec Lighting this month celebrates a company milestone as the South Florida based LED lighting manufacturer enters its 10th year in business. Lumitec was founded in November 2007 with its initial focus primarily on marine lighting. The company has since gone on to venture into other markets, producing new products year after year, with sales increases exceeding triple digits in many years. “Our success is partly the result of hard work, focus, determination and a little luck. But above all else our talented and devoted team is what has gotten us to where we are today,” said company founder and president John Kujawa.

Partners to Deliver Precision Tide and Current Data

Tidetech Commercial Marine Pty Ltd, a provider of metocean data to the merchant marine market has agreed to a partnership with Weather Decision Technologies, Inc, a decision support and weather analytics company. Tidetech is a specialized provider of detailed oceanographic information to the shipping and offshore industries with expertise in modelling tides and currents for coastal regions and global ocean routes. Under the agreement Tidetech will make its marine data available…

First Superyacht Signs up for Fleet Xpress Plan

Inmarsat has launched a new and flexible Fleet Xpress plan for superyachts to address the seasonal luxury market, and through its partner e3 Systems has signed up the first superyacht Beagle Star V, a luxury sail yacht, to the plan. The award-winning Fleet Xpress service has become the fastest growing VSAT service in the 2017 commercial shipping market. With additional flexibility being a key demand for the superyacht industry, where voice and video calls, entertainment and social media can vary widely during the season…

KVH TracPhone V7-HTS System Delivers Maritime Broadband

An advanced, 60 cm marine satellite antenna system designed to consistently deliver the fastest data speeds globally to the maritime market will be unveiled tomorrow by KVH Industries, Inc., at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, in Florida. The TracPhone V7-HTS achieves data download speeds of up to 10 Mbps, three times faster than current 60 cm models on the market, including KVH’s own system, and fast enough to enable the streaming of HD-quality content at sea. In addition…

KVH Launches New High-speed Maritime Network on Intelsat

KVH Industries announced the launch of its next-generation, advanced maritime broadband network, joined by service partner, Intelsat. Slated for commercial availability next month, KVH’s high-speed overlay to its current mini-VSAT Broadbandsm service is expected to triple, and in some cases increase by a multiple of six, the data speeds for its maritime customers. At the core of its capabilities, KVH’s advanced maritime broadband network will incorporate Intelsat Epic satellite services and the award-winning IntelsatOne Flex platform…

Yacht Groupto Sell ACR's ‘Yacht Beams’

Yacht Group have announced their strategic partnership with ACR Electronics. ACR’s searchlights will now be exclusively sold and further developed by The Yacht Group. These searchlights are called Yacht Beams and are being designed and manufactured specifically to yacht and commercial vessel specifications. Captains can confidently pierce through the darkest nights with The Yacht Beam’s series of one million and six million candela power. The lights are precision controlled via a military/commercial grade IP69 illuminating joystick (pending FCC approvals…

Wärtsilä Bridge Systems for Two New Mega Yachts

Wärtsilä informs it has been contracted to supply its Nacos Platinum integrated bridge system for two new mega yachts: one an 85 meter long vessel and the other 91 meters long, both being built in Greece. In addition to the systems, Wärtsilä will provide the project management, engineering, pre-wiring of the consoles and system commissioning services, thus delivering a complete solution. The new and advanced bridge console concept for these vessels includes an integrated navigation system (INS) with compass and latest technology navigation sensors…

Kymeta, e3 Systems Perform First Superyacht Sea Trials

Kymeta, together with exclusive superyacht distribution partner e3 Systems, revealed that the superyacht White Rose of Drachs has been performing the first-ever motor yacht sea trials with Kymeta communications solutions over the last several months with successful results. The two companies worked with the owner, captain and IT manager of the White Rose to perform the months-long sea trial, and outfitted the yacht with four Kymeta KyWay terminals. The terminals were tested with various MIR/CIR services from maritime satellite service providers…

New Cabling Kit for Easy Marine Electronics Interfacing

NMEA 2000 has now become the de-facto standard throughout the marine electronics industry for interconnection of devices. It uses a simple backbone (or sometimes called "trunk") structure with requires terminators at each end of the cabling and then each device can be spurred off using a drop cable. The bus also requires power. Waterproof connectors are used throughout for maximum reliability and it makes for an easy plug 'n play installation. Digital Yacht has introduced a new NMEA 2000 starter kit which allows for up to three devices to interconnect - say AIS…

SCADA Makes Yachts Safer and Easier to Captain

Instant and accurate man overboard location is just one of many features that SCADA technology is offering to transform the safety and comfort of pleasure sailing. Products4Automation’s SCADA expert Paul Hurst examines the technology transfer from industrial process plant to luxury yacht. Fifty years ago, people were saying that automotive technology had reached maturity and could not be developed much further, but time has told a very different story. By embracing complementary new technologies and working on constant incremental improvements…

Simrad Announces A2004 Autopilot Controller

The new Simrad A2004 is a dedicated autopilot controller designed to meet the needs of workboat, commercial fishing and passenger vessels. The A2004 is suited for vessels that don’t require SOLAS Heading Control Systems but do require a proven autopilot interface backed by Continuum software for accuracy and ease of use. The autopilot’s information is presented on a wide-angle and zero-fog color display and is engineered for responsiveness and ease of use with a precision rotary control dial and dedicated buttons for instant access to steering modes…

Navico Hires Southwest US Sales Manager

Navico, a manufacturer of marine electronics and parent company to the Lowrance, Simrad and B&G brands, has appointed Scott Nagel as its new territory sales manager for the southwest U.S. Based in Mission Viejo, Calif., Nagel’s territory will cover California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico and Hawaii. Nagel has been in the industry for many years working as an independent sales representative for leading brands like Daiwa, Rapala, Flambeau, Penn, Beretta and Sig Sauer.

Xantrex Rolls Out New Sine Wave Inverters

Onboard AC power technology company Xantrex informs it has expanded its Freedom series with the launch of four new models. The new series called Freedom X marks the ongoing evolution of the Freedom inverter first launched in 1992. “The Freedom name is synonymous with quality and reliability in the marine industry. The Freedom Marine, Freedom HF/HFS and Freedom SW inverter/chargers set benchmarks in the industry and have been installed in thousands of boats,” said Richard Gaudet, Vice President of Xantrex business at Schneider Electric.

Broadband Demand

Satellite-based connectivity has always played a critical role for the maritime sector. As the communications expectations of ship owners, passengers and crews continue to grow, maritime service providers are seeing a transformation in the type and quantity of applications that need to be supported at sea. The advent of VSAT broadband services is driving a shift away from traditional, low-level L-band connections that ship operators have relied upon for decades. VSAT services are preferred to respond to the demand for high-speed broadband that can support bandwidth-intensive applications.

Evinrude Rolls Out Joystick Docking System

The new iDock joystick piloting system is the latest addition to the Evinrude Intelligent Piloting System, a suite of Evinrude E-TEC G2 engine features designed to make boats easier and more intuitive to operate. Existing features include iSteer integrated dynamic power steering, iTrim automatic trim system, iControl digital shift and throttle and iLink mobile display interface, which are designed to help take the guesswork out of operating a boat, and offer users total boat and engine control.

Fernback to Lead C-MAP

Marine navigation technology company C-MAP announced that Sean Fernback has been engaged as Chief Executive Officer of Digital Marine Solutions Holding AS and the C-MAP Group. Most recently, Fernback was CEO of the open platform locations company HERE, which he led for two years including managing its divestiture from parent company Nokia. Prior to that, Fernback led engineering and product development for the consumer division at TomTom. Fernback has a background in new technology innovation and has held several leadership positions in the field…

Yacht Havens Boost Customer Wi-Fi

Marina group Yacht Havens Ltd have undertaken a major overhaul of their Wi-Fi infrastructure to bring fast fibre broadband to their marinas, increasing the speed and reliability of the complimentary Wi-Fi service provided to marina berth holders and visitors. The Wi-Fi enhancements have been rolled out at Yacht Havens’ locations in Lymington, Plymouth, Neyland, Largs and Troon delivering speeds of up to 100Mbps to each site allowing for a significant improvement of internet speeds around the pontoons.

Navico Acquires Naviop

Marine electronics manufacturer Navico, parent company to the Lowrance, Simrad and B&G brands, announced it has finalized an agreement to acquire marine monitoring and control systems provider Naviop. Providing the integration framework to capture data from all boating systems, Naviop creates a digital ecosystem on boats outfitted with Simrad, Lowrance and B&G marine electronics, with the multifunction display serving as the hub for complete system control and information. “For years, auto manufacturers have provided consumers with a complete integration solution at their fingertips…

ACR Electronics Names Delcourt Sales Manager

ACR Electronics, Inc. manufacturer of maritime safety and survival products, has appointed a new sales manager within its Land and Marine Division for Europe, Middle East and Africa. Guillaume Delcourt will focus on expanding ACR’s international sales footprint in these geographic regions as demand increases for its popular range of 406 MHz beacons, AIS man overboard devices, distress lights and other safety products for the recreational and commercial markets. Delcourt brings several years of experience in the marine sector to his new role at ACR…