Boats Electronics News

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…

Navigating Marine Connectivity

The NMEA (National Marine Electronics Association) 2000 standards helped create a framework for safer, more reliable marine communications by streamlining the connectivity of boat engines, navigation, control, power distribution, water, waste and other mechanical and monitoring systems. Onboard connectivity translates into improved operator safety, better diagnostics, simplified maintenance and lower lifetime costs. Manufacturers recognize the value of electronics to distinguish their brand—and satisfy customers seeking connectivity at sea.

Boston Whaler Unveils New Montauk Models

Timed for release with the 60th anniversary of the Unsinkable Legend, Boston Whaler has rolled out the new 170 Montauk and 150 Montauk, modern-day editions of its most iconic model. “The Montauk has always been about effortless utility and purposeful design,” said Jeff Vaughn, Whaler vice president of sales, marketing and customer service. “We worked to maintain that clean simplicity and ultimate reliability, while also leveraging customer feedback to implement strategic upgrades. First unveiled in Sarasota during Whaler’s weeklong anniversary celebration kickoff, the new 150 and 170 Montauk each feature a precision-engineered hull to deliver a soft, safe, dry ride. Captains from novice to expert will appreciate the intuitive helm console with stainless steel accents, and can count on the Mercury FourStroke engine for reliable, efficient performance.

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.

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, and we, as a marine industry have fallen behind the curve to provide the same level of convenience and control,” said Leif Ottosson, Navico CEO. “With Naviop, we have taken a step forward to provide a comprehensive system-integration package for the boatbuilding market – a position that is already well-received with many of our boatbuilding customers.

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…

Seakeeper 6 Unveiled for 40'-49' Vessels

Seakeeper Inc. has released its newest model, the Seakeeper 6, designed to eliminate up to 95 percent of boat roll on 40- to 49-foot vessels, up to roughly 20 tons. While providing a level of stabilization comparable to Seakeeper’s original model, the M7000, the new Seakeeper 6 is a considerable 40 percent smaller, draws 25 percent less power, and costs roughly half as much as the original model. As marine stabilization has evolved and spread over the past decade, customers’ expectations have evolved as well.

Vesper Marine Plots Americas Expansion

Marine safety products manufacturer Vesper Marine said it has appointed of a vice president of sales for Americas, and opened of its new U.S. office. As vice president of sales for Americas, Jason Young will focus on customer service and new account development. Additionally, Vesper Marine has engaged sales and marketing group Richards Marine Marketing to represent the business throughout the West Coast and Canadian markets. Richards Marine Marketing principal, Mark Richards, will build sales for Vesper Marine’s innovative smartAIS transponders through his network of boat builders…

Glassman Joins VMAG

Marine electronics, navigation and communication systems supplier Voyager Maritime Alliance Group (VMAG) said it has recruited Robert Glassman as a Senior Technical Sales Engineer as it expands its portfolio to provide turnkey marine technology for refits and new builds. Glassman graduated from Palm Beach Community College, joined the Coast Guard and retired after 20+ years as a Mustang Lieutenant. During his military service, he was instrumental in many drug and migrant interdictions…

Eastwood to Lead Shakespeare Marine

Bill Eastwood has been appointed business manager for the Shakespeare Marine Electronics product line of Jarden Applied Materials, a business unit of Newell Brands. In his new role, Eastwood is responsible for the global sales and marketing of Shakespeare antennas and accessories, as well building upon its well-known brand to increase market share. He also oversees the continued development of connectivity technology advancements such as Wi-Fi extenders and cellular amplifiers, aimed at keeping recreational and commercial mariners connected.

Mercury Diesel 6.7L Engine Family Unveiled

Mercury Marine has unveiled the new Mercury Diesel 6.7L midrange engine family. The new electronic, common-rail engines will be offered with three power levels:  480hp, 500hp and 550hp. They will be available as inboards or packaged with the Mercury Zeus pod-drive. The new Mercury Diesel engine is compatible with Mercury’s full suite of SmartCraft controls and electronics, including optional joystick piloting for inboards and joystick piloting for pods (Zeus). “Mercury has established itself as providing the best integrated propulsion solutions to our customers…

Raymarine Launches New Nav System Family

Raymarine announces an all-new family of Raymarine MFDs called Axiom, game-changers poised to shake up the marine electronics industry. ‘AXIOM’ is the perfect name for Raymarine’s powerful new multifunction navigation system. With available built-in RealVision 3D sonar, the all new LightHouse 3 operating system, and blazing quad-core performance, AXIOM represents an entirely new paradigm of navigational and fish-finding performance. The Raymarine Axiom MFD family features lifelike imagery via Raymarine’s exclusive RealVision 3D for superior underwater fish and structure identification.

FLIR Unveils New Raymarine Brand Identity

FLIR unveiled a redesign of the Raymarine brand, including a new logo, icon and tagline to be used in all marketing activities and throughout its products lines. Both the new brand design and tagline, ‘Simply Superior,’ signify FLIR’s commitment to delivering world-class marine electronics through its Raymarine brand. Retaining distinct and recognizable visual characteristics of the iconic Raymarine logo, the new Raymarine identity takes a modernized design that evokes energy and momentum…

Vesper Marine Launches Smartais Technology

Vesper Marine, a manufacturer of marine safety products, has released its smartAIS technology. Combined with Vesper Marine products, smartAIS provides new capabilities – including the world’s first black box AIS transponder with built-in safety alarms. An active system with smart alarm logic, it proactively alerts boaters of potentially hazardous situations. Putting users in control, smartAIS combines navigation sensor data, and GPS and AIS information, with intelligent alarm management that prioritizes alerts for the most urgent response.

Webasto A/C Series Quiet, Compact

An air-conditioned cabin can be a welcome relief on hot, humid nights. The BlueCool S-Series of self-contained air conditioning units from Webasto Thermo & Comfort North America provide energy-efficient climate control in a quiet, compact package. Designed for boats with up to three cabins, the self-contained, stand-alone BlueCool S-Series includes seven sizes of compact air conditioners with integrated reverse-cycle heating. Models range from 8,000 to 27,000 BTU/h to fit the boat owner's needs.

Watermakers Add Safety, Convenience, Value

Boats are a lot like homes: upgrades and enhancements add to their comfort and livability, and increase their value. FCI Watermakers explores how adding a watermaker to a vessel is an investment that pays dividends in terms of safety and convenience, and sets it apart when it's time to sell. The ability to make pure, fresh water while at sea is liberating. Gone are the days of water frugality. With a watermaker, there's more than enough for drinking, bathing, cooking and refilling supplies. And in case of mechanical trouble far from the nearest port, it can be a real lifesaver.

Hatteras Yachts Appoints Grindle as CEO

Hatteras/Cabo Yachts LLC, builder of convertible sportfishing and luxury motor yachts from 45 to 100 feet, has appointed Kelly Todd Grindle as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer as of today, January 23, 2017. Grindle served most recently as President – Outdoor Products at Vista Outdoor Inc., in Overland Park, Kansas, a $2.3 billion designer, manufacturer and marketer of consumer products in the outdoor sports and recreation markets. He brings to Hatteras Yachts his extensive experience in the recreational marine manufacturing sector.

Simrad NSS EVO3 Multifunction Display Unveiled

A new generation of    functionality and ease of use for offshore    performance  Egersund, Norway – The evolution of the Simrad brand built into  one multifunction display and then taken to    the extremes to satisfy    the    world’s    most demanding sportfishing  enthusiasts  – this is the Simrad NSS evo3. Announced today,    the    evo3 series    is the realization of the future of fishing, the connected vessel and boating electronics. The combined styling, technology  and performance of the units push new boundaries.

ASIS Delivers First 9.8m Amphibious RIB

Following the success of the ASIS Amphibious RIBs 7.1 and 6.1m, and in response to popular demand; ASIS just developed, tested and delivered its biggest amphibious RIB ever manufactured yet; A 9.8 meter Black Rigid Inflatable Amphibious boat. This boat is intended for private use, and will reach its owner in The United States in September. The Sealegs amphibious system available on the ASIS 9.8m RIB consists of motorized, retractable and steerable wheels, powering the boat with off-water capabilities The entire system is marinised and stays completely out of the water while underway.

iKommunicate Brings the 'Internet of Things' to Boats

iKommunicate from Digital Yacht is a radical new gateway designed to get traditional marine electronics connected to the next generation of interfacing and the internet of things. It was developed via a successful Kickstarter crowd funded project back in early 2016 and is now available as a consumer product. NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 interfacing have been utilised for many years and are now the defacto interconnect standard for all major brands of electronics. They are super reliable…

Navico Under New Ownership

Navico – a provider of marine electronics and parent company to the Lowrance, Simrad, B&G and GoFree brands – announced that Goldman Sachs Merchant Banking Division and Altor Fund IV have partnered and signed an agreement to acquire Navico from the Altor 2003 Fund. Navico is an innovative force within the recreational and commercial marine electronics market and has a rich history of investment in research and development. In the last two years, the company developed such technologies as the HALOTM Pulse Compression Radar technology…

Cobham Upgrades SAILOR 900 VSAT

Cobham SATCOM has developed a new version of its SAILOR 900 Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) Ku-band antenna, featuring a new Block Up Converter (BUC). The antenna, designed by Cobham, makes it easier and less costly to ensure high availability of service as there is no need for additional hardware. It also delivers the potential for satcom service providers to deliver higher uplink bandwidths. The 20W BUC in the new SAILOR 900 VSAT High Power antenna ensures reliable operation in warm…

Simrad, B&G Introduce Network Diagnostic Software

Simrad and B&G have announced the Network Analyzer and Service Assistant available for all Zeus2 and Zeus2 Glass Helm multifunction displays, and Vulcan chartplotters, NSS evo2, NSO evo2, and GO multifunction displays with GoFree connectivity. Available in the latest Simrad and B&G software downloads, users will now be notified of system software updates no matter how far offshore they are as long as they have wireless connection with the Network Analyzer. The new Service Assistant…

NMEA Offers Online Marine Electronics Training Course

The National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) has introduced a new marine electronics course designed for the boating public. It is intended for technically oriented boaters and end users who would like to apply the NMEA 0400 guidelines to installations that they perform on their own vessels, said Mark Reedenauer, NMEA's President and Executive Director. Called the NMEA 0400 General Overview, the new course provides highlights of NMEA's acclaimed 0400 Installation Standard. This course provides general knowledge and understanding of common marine electronics installation and operational procedures, regardless of equipment manufacturer. The NMEA 0400 Installation Standard is designed to complement any manufacturer-specific installation manual. The new course for boaters is not an NMEA Installer Certification course. However, it does utilize parts of the Marine Electronics Installer (MEI) and NMEA 2000 Network Installer courses.

FLIR Debuts Wireless CHIRP Marine Radar

FLIR Systems, Inc. announced the launch of its new Raymarine Quantum CHIRP radar, a recreational marine radar dome featuring CHIRP pulse compression technology. Representing a new approach to marine radar, Quantum CHIRP radar aims to set a new standard for compact solid state radar, delivering superior radar imaging on both long and short ranges. Quantum’s CHIRP Pulse Compression technology uses multiple compressed, radar pulses with FLIR’s ATX advanced target separation technology to display targets like boats…

New 3 Watt LED Interior Cabin Light Launched

Larson Electronics has released a new 3 watt waterproof LED light, the LEDCL-280 LED boat light. Constructed with a single 3 watt LED, this cabin light produces 225 lumens of light while drawing 285mA. The beam produced by this LED boat light will illuminate approximately 45 feet of area, making it an effective flood light for small areas such as cabins and cockpits. The ball and socket style mounting system offers full articulation, allowing the light to be set at any angle desired. This light is designed for flush mounting, has no metal to metal contact and there are no exposed fasteners.

Seaview Mounts for the New Intellian i5

Seaview, a designer and manufacturer of mounting solutions for marine electronics, announced today its mounting options for the new Intellian i5 satellite dome, including mounting solutions for the complete range of Satellite TV and Communication products. The Seaview mounting options currently available for the new Intellian i5 satellite dome are listed below. Seaview’s Modular Vertical Mounts have a small mounting base and is the perfect solution with limited space. There are many accessories available for this mount such as light bars, spreader kits and wedges.

Norautron Group AS acquires Hatteland Display AS

Norautron Group has entered into an agreement to acquire 100% of Hatteland Display from Herkules Capital. Hatteland Display's history dates back to 1989, and the company is now a leading designer and manufacturer of high-end rugged displays, panel computers, and computers for all segments of the professional marine industry. The company has established strong relationships with major systems integrators through a growth strategy based on technological leadership and innovation. Norautron Group is a leading technology company with a global footprint.

New S. Florida Dealer for Llebroc Helm Chairs

Florida Yacht Interiors said it has been selected exclusive South Florida Dealer for Llebroc helm chairs serving customers in Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach. The 12-year-old firm will showcase the Llebroc helm chair line at the upcoming 2015 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, according to president Captain Chase Camacho. Florida Yacht Interiors services, a one-stop-shop, include design and yacht staging, custom cabinetry, upholstery, flooring, galley surfaces, built-in installations, interior lighting and window treatments and fine artwork and sculptures.

OceanLED Hires North America Account Manager

Ocean LED USA, LLC, a manufacturer of LED marine lighting technology, today announced that Fred Mayer has joined the company and will serve as the Superyacht Division Account Manager for North America. In his new role, Mayer is tasked with developing and leading OceanLED’s superyacht business and further strengthening the corporate brand. Mayer most recently served as the Senior Sales Consultant with Palladium Technologies, a provider of technology-based integrated solutions for yachts.

MTU's Yacht Offerings on Display in Monaco

Press release - Rolls-Royce will present MTU propulsion systems and automation products for megayachts at the Yacht Show in Monaco from September 23-26, 2015. On show on Stand QC9 on the Quai Chicane there will be a model of an MTU Type 20V 4000 M93 engine combined with an electric motor in a hybrid configuration. Visitors will be shown a variety of drive modes from silent mode through to electric mode. The MTU brand is part of Rolls-Royce Power Systems within the Land & Sea division of Rolls-Royce.

WESMAR Equipped Megayacht to Debut at Monaco

Press Release - A WESMAR sonar is on one of the world’s most elegant megayachts, and one that will be featured at the Monaco Yacht Show September 23-26. Sonar for navigation and security is growing in popularity onboard large yachts and excursion boats, says WESMAR (Western Marine Electronics) leading US marine electronics company. The 207-foot (63 meter) Benetti super yacht was commissioned in August by legendary Italian boat builder Benetti. She has a WESMAR Model EV850/110 kHz-10 sonar on.

B&G Gives Racers New Startline Functionality

Sailing navigation and instrument specialist B&G announced its latest software update for the Zeus2 series of multifunctional displays (MFD) and Glass Helm systems. The software update introduces a new Race Panel menu screen to the Zeus2 display, offering easy access to a selection of powerful sail racing features. Featuring four modes that provide sailors with multiple display choices, Race Panel includes: Race Timer, the “What if?” function, H5000-style Startline data and Deckman-style Startline scaled view.

ASA Electronics Expands Marine Audio Line

ASA Electronics, an international manufacturer of  audio and video electronics introduced the new MA200 app ready waterproof source unit with Bluetooth capabilities. This sleek, modern looking stereo gives boaters advanced features along with the durability needed to withstand life on the water, the manufacturer said. The MA200 has been designed with high quality, in-demand features to meet the needs of the marine industry. The stereo has 160 watts of power and features an AM/FM electronic tuner, rear auxiliary input and a pre-amp line out audio.

Gemeco Partners to Refit the Impossible Dream

Gemeco Marine Accessories, world-leading experts in the selection, placement and technical support for marine transducers and NMEA networking products, announced today its partnership with non-profit organizations, the Impossible Dream and Shake-a-Leg Miami in the refit of the universally accessible 60-foot sailing catamaran, Impossible Dream. The organizations are developing the Impossible Dream as a flagship vessel to promote sailing as a way to improve the health, education, and independence of people with disabilities and disadvantaged youth, as well as their families.

GoFree Develops GoFree Hooked

GoFree – the provider of digital content and services and part of the Navico family of marine electronics brands including Lowrance, Simrad and B&G – announced today the development and release for Beta testing of new fishing app – GoFree Hooked. GoFree Hooked app for iOS is a mobile tracking solution for anglers, with the capability to record and share every fishing trip – whether from a boat or the shore. GoFree Hooked automatically saves the time, location and navigation track of each outing.

New Waterproof Stereo Launched

ASA Electronics has introduced a new self-contained App ready/USB/Bluetooth enabled 3.5" waterproof stereo. This unique unit offers boating enthusiasts every stereo feature they are looking for in a compact, simple-to-use design. The 160 watt MS3A stereo is suited for boaters looking for a space saving, high performance system built specifically for the marine environment, the manufacturer said. Through JENSEN’s new jControl app, boaters will have the ability to control all of the stereo’s primary functions directly from their mobile device.

New Waterproof Stereo for the Marine Market

ASA Electronics has introduced to the marine industry the new MS2A App Ready Waterproof Stereo with Bluetooth, which according to ASA Electronics, features advanced technology, a modern look and good durability. The MS2A is part of a series of marine grade stereos that feature advanced app control technology which allows boaters to control the primary functions of their stereo directly from their mobile device via a free downloadable application called JENSEN Marine. This unit has 160 watts of power and includes a rear auxiliary input, a pre-amp line out audio and an AM/FM electronic tuner. The MS2A also has Bluetooth interface capabilities with A2DP/AVRCP technology and a USB input for full iPod/iPhone interface as well as for MP3 devices. All of these features provide boat owners with a variety of music and entertainment options while on the water. The MS2A has a low battery warning that alerts boaters when their voltage is low.

Simrad Debuts GO7 Multi-touch Display

Simrad Yachting announced today the release of the GO7 standalone multi-touch chartplotter and echo sounder. Offering boaters an affordable option for electronic navigation, the feature-packed GO7 is an ideal fit for RIBs, runabouts and cruisers, providing quick and easy access to the vital information boaters require to safely maximize their time on the water. The highly customizable user interface allows boaters to easily navigate through displays – even in the toughest offshore conditions.

Newport Boat Show on September 17th

Newport Exhibition Group announced today that its 45th Newport International Boat Show will take place September 17th on the Newport waterfront along America’s Cup Avenue in Newport, Rhode Island. One of the largest in-water boat shows in the country and the premier show in New England, the Newport International Boat Show encompasses 13 acres and will host hundreds of exhibitors from around the world with new powerboats and sailboats ranging from 16 to 100 feet, plus a variety of accessories, equipment, electronics, gear and services for boaters.

GoFree Debuts Lake Insight & Nautic Insight Cartography

GoFree – the provider of digital content and services, and part of the Navico family of marine electronics brands including Lowrance, Simrad Yachting and B&G – announced today the release of six updated mapping products for use in both inland and coastal U.S. waters. Greatly improved for 2015, Lake Insight® and Nautic Insight® cartography packages are each available in three versions: PRO, HD East and HD West. Delivering high-quality maps for the lower 48 United States including the Great Lakes…

The Power Behind the Winner's Podium

Banque Populaire VII, winner of the 2014 Route du Rhum transatlantic single-handed yacht race, cam attribute its success to the combined efforts of her designers Van Peteghem Lauriot-Prevost, builders Multiplast and, not least, the skill of her skipper Loïck Peyron in setting the performance of this ocean-racing trimaran against the forces of wind, sea and weather. According to Yanmar, there was another source of power provided unseen and hardly heard below-decks - a Yanmar 4JH4-HTE 110mhp four-cylinder diesel auxiliary engine.

Caterpillar Debuts New Display in Miami

Caterpillar Marine launched the next generation Cat Marine 5-inch display for the marine market, joining the recently-introduced 7” and 13” smart displays designed to integrate seamlessly with the high-end yacht bridges. All three new Cat displays, showcased at the Caterpillar booth at the 2015 Miami International Boat Show, will be fully integrated with Cat marine engines and Cat Three60 propulsion solutions. According to Caterpillar, the new 5” display features an eight push-button user interface…

App Ready Audio Systems at Miami Boat Show

Two of ASA Electronics’ Polk Ultramarine brand audio systems will now come complete with app control, available model year 2016. The designs and feature sets of the UM1A and PA4A now feature full function app control for both Android and Apple iOS users, via a free downloadable application called Polk Ultramarine. With contemporary styling and the broadest media support on the market, these models are a market-premium system for the discriminating marine brands. The new Polk Ultramarine app is a wireless remote control for a Polk Ultramarine audio system.

New Courtesy Lamps from Hella Marine

Hella Marine's new Oblong Courtesy Lamps are available in a surface mount version for easier installation. Featuring a slim design, the lights are suited for brightening onboard areas, such as steps, stairs, toe kicks, storage areas, companion ways, deck fittings, signs and switches. Available in a variety of colors, including white, warm white, blue and red, the lighting design is customizable. Simple to install, owners just drill a hole for the cable, connect the two wires, screw the unit in place and cover the fastenings with the supplied end caps or stainless steel bezel.

Marine Electronics & the Smart ECDIS: eGlobe G2

ChartWorld have announced the launch of their next generation of ECDIS software - eGlobe G2. Designed with the assistance of experienced nautical officers, focusing on the practical usage for modern seafaring, eGlobe G2 opens a new era of mariner friendly & intuitive navigation solutions. Integrated “Watch handover” checks which creates confidence in the system settings during handover. ChartWorld have mastered the art of simple design allowing for compact packaging to reduce shipping costs and ensure a fast installation.

WESMAR Displays New Products at PME

WESMAR will display several new products at the Pacific Marine Expo (PME), which opens today and runs through Friday in Seattle at Century Link Field Event Center. On display will be the company’s new BioLight option to WESMAR’s Smart Trawl sleds; the all stainless steel dual prop counter rotating commercial fishing bow thrusters; an array of E-Bait a new product line designed for commercial fishing and being introduced by WESMAR’s Electronic Bait Division; and the company’s commercial fishing sonar. “The 500 kHz smart sleds give extremely detailed discrimination near the bottom,” said WESMAR’s Dennis Soderberg. “This system is ideal for differentiating between species of rock fish and for marking cod and flat fish. The BioLight option includes three additional crash boots, all translucent and software that allows the captain to control the use various light options.

Navico Launches GoFree Brand

Navico, manufacturer of marine electronics and parent company to the Lowrance, Simrad and B&G brands, has launched its newest brand, GoFree. Designed to deliver content and services to consumers for use with Lowrance, Simrad and B&G Multifunction Displays (MFDs), as well as mobile devices. GoFree products include all existing Insight charts, Insight Genesis personalized mapping service with Social Map community data sharing, BioBase aquatic map Software as a Service (SaaS), the online GoFree Shop which offers content from Jeppesen…

Aage Hempel to Distribute RZ Products

Aage Hempel Group, a company in worldwide merchant marine electronic service and focused on maritime sales and service, has signed an agreement for service and distribution of RZ products for the mega yachting in Spain. Radio Zeeland DMP, which develops navigation and communication products for the commercial shipping industry, has taken the steps into the yachting market. The company delivers products ranging from a simple control panel to a completely prefabricated bridge console with all data acquisition elements and remote control stations…

Tag Yachts Choose Victron Energy for Yacht Build

Victron Energy has become the supplier for onboard energy in the newbuild TAG 50, from Tag Yachts, according to Peter Bakker of Bakker Yachting Electronics in South Africa, who is an independent yacht systems designer. TAG Yachts has specified 4 x 4.75 KWh Victron Lithium-ion 24V 180Ah battery systems as standard on the TAG 50 XR. Bakker said, "I have been working with Victron equipment for over 25 years and that in itself is something to celebrate. Bakker explained that Quattros are the energy control center in every boat…

Raymarine Debuts New Tech at FLIB 2014

FLIR Systems, Inc. launched the Raymarine Ray70 Multifunction VHF Marine Radio and the LightHouse II Version 12 Software upgrade for Raymarine multifunction displays. Raymarine’s new line of VHF radios are being showcased this week at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2014. As Raymarine’s new flagship VHF, Ray70 streamlines multiple communication tools into a single device. The Ray70’s integral Automatic Identification System (AIS) receiver simplifies installation and delivers vessel traffic information to compatible navigation displays.

Eastern's Columbia on Display in Fort Lauderdale

Eastern Shipbuilding Group’s reengineered Columbia, built from the original design plans of the classic 1923 Essex-built schooner, will be on display at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, October 30-November 3, 2014. The original Columbia, a 141’ classic Gloucester Fishing Schooner designed by William Starling Burgess, built at the historic A.D. Story shipyard of Essex, Massachusetts and launched April 17, 1923, was bred for speed, challenging – and nearly defeating – Canada’s legendary Bluenose schooner in the International Fishermen’s Cup Races in Halifax.

GOST Security System thwarts Break-in

GOST (Global Ocean Security Technologies), announced that its GOST Insight HD GPS Security System was instrumental in foiling the theft of electronics onboard a powerboat in Aventura, Florida. On the morning of October 14, 2014, Scott Patterson received a text message at 6:18 a.m. from the security system on his boat stating, “Cockpit Motion” which included a link to a ten second video showing a perpetrator in the salon of his 52-foot Sea Ray Sundancer. Patterson immediately ran to the marina while police were dispatched.

GOST Watch HD App Receives NMEA Award

GOST (Global Ocean Security Technologies), announced that its GOST Watch HD app was presented the Product Award for Marine Specialty at the 2014 National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) convention held in Fort Myers, Florida. The NMEA Product Awards single out the year’s best new electronics products and are judged by an annually-nominated panel of expert voters using procedures defined by the Association’s awards committee. The GOST Watch HD remote surveillance system is designed to capture video when motion is detected while the system is armed.

Volvo Ocean Race: Leg 1 Preview

B&G, official supplier to The Volvo Ocean Race, has teamed up with journalist and author Mark Chisnell to create a series of weekly blogs providing behind the scenes insights into the race’s tactics and results. Starting with a preview of the first leg of the Volvo Ocean Race 2014-15 from Alicante to Cape Town, the former America’s Cup Navigator, sailing journalist, marine electronics expert and author will provide B&G with exclusive weekly, in-depth technical analysis of the action as it unfolds on the racecourse.

MTU Showcases E Drive at Monaco Yacht Show

The Rolls-Royce brand MTU is at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show, showcasing its propulsion and system solutions for mega yachts.The range includes both standardised drive packages and customised system solutions, such as the E Drive system incorporating diesel engines and electric motors, transmission, electronics and energy storage system. The MTU portfolio combines the benefits of diesel-powered drives with those of purely electrically powered alternative drive systems. (The MTU brand is part of Rolls-Royce Power Systems within the Marine and Industrial Power Systems division of Rolls-Royce).

Navico Bolsters Global Marketing Team

Navico, a manufacturer of marine electronics and parent company to the Lowrance, Simrad and B&G brands, announced the strengthening of its global marketing team. Navico has made changes to a number of positions in its Global and Americas Marketing teams. Jim Deheer will continue his role as Global Brand Director for B&G and has taken on the additional responsibilities for the global brand management of growing the range of Professional Simrad products. Daren Cole has been appointed to the role of Global Brand Director for Lowrance, and Steve Mosinski joins Navico from Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group as Global Marketing Manager for the Digital Business Division. In the Americas region, Gordon Sprouse has been appointed to the role of Americas Marketing Director.

Boston Whaler Reveals 420 Outrage, Its Largest Vessel Ever

During the 2014 Cannes International Boat Show, which opened September 9, representatives from Boston Whaler introduced the all-new 420 Outrage, a boat with incredible comfort, capability and cutting-edge features. “The 420 Outrage is the largest Boston Whaler ever produced,” said Jeff Vaughn, vice president of sales, marketing and customer service. “ It all began by asking, ‘How can we push beyond the limits of what’s possible in a center console boat?’ We’ve found our answer in the 420 Outrage .

Newport International Boat Show Highlights

Newport Exhibition Group, owners and producers of the Newport International Boat Show, announced today activities and amenities for those planning to attend its 44th boat show season, the Newport International Boat Show provides visitors from around the world a venue to see the latest boats and product offerings from hundreds of manufacturers and dealers, including dozens debuting for the first time in the United States. Set along historic Newport Harbor in the heart of downtown Newport…

International Boat Show Cruises into Cartagena Harbor

For the third year in a row, the Cartagena International Boat Show (CIBS) will set anchor at the Cartagena Convention Center where they expect to draw close to 5,000 visitors from around the world on March 21, 22 and 23, 2015. Exhibitors from around the world will showcase the newest boats, from luxury motor and sailing yachts to personal watercraft and sport fishers, including powerboats, sailboats, jet boats and electric boats, as well as the latest cutting-edge electronics, engines and marine accessories.