Boats Electronics News

New Dates for The South Coast Boat Show

The South Coast Boat Show, guided by Raymarine, has been rescheduled to the first weekend in July.  Following the escalation of the worldwide pandemic, and UK Government advice to practice social distancing in order to reduce the spread of Covid-19, the organizers have taken a pragmatic approach.The show will return to Ocean Village Marina in July 2020 featuring global power and sailing brands as well as an extensive land-based exhibition of ancillary services.

AecorLink Granted New Patent

AecorLink has been granted a new patent on its company's communication platform. The patented technology will further enhance the capacity for shore-ship communication via microwave links. The salient advantage with the patent allows the networks to further improve the capability providing high-speed and stable data connections.AecorLink AB a Swedish internet service provider targeting the maritime industry. A leader in providing microwave shore to ship connectivity, the company is operating techniques stretching from Wi-Fi, LTE4G to different satellite solutions.

Intellian Launches Next Gen Tri-band Product

Intellian announced the launch of its next generation tri-band product, the v240MT Gen-II antenna. Developed from the tri-band v240MT,  the new product adds many features, including the ability to operate multiple antennas via its dual data center capability, and enhanced Ku-band performance.The ability to switch between C-, Ku-, and Ka-bands, and between GEO, MEO and LEO orbits, makes the v240MT Gen-II truly vendor agnostic and allows customers to select the best and most economical provider at any time, without hardware modifications. The device is also modem agnostic.

Sperry Marine Launches NAVIGAT 2500 and 3500

Northrop Grumman Sperry Marine has announced the launch of NAVIGAT 2500 and 3500, its next generation high accuracy, maintenance-free Fiber Optic Gyro (FOG) compasses.Suitable for all types of vessels, the NAVIGAT family of compasses provide heading measurement in all kinds of dynamic conditions with compatibility to Sperry Marine CompassNet, the first networked heading management system.NAVIGAT 2500 and NAVIGAT 3500 are based on solid-state technology with no moving parts, offering compact size and low weight.

Furuno Launches Compact Satellite Compasses

Furuno has introduced two new compact Satellite Compasses.The SCX20 and SCX21 have added Baseline Target Architecture for multipath mitigation, accuracy. The four-antenna array of the SCX20 and SCX21 Satellite Compasses are configured in a manner that creates six unique baselines from which to calculate accurate heading information, even in severe environments.Satellite Compasses traditionally utilize a two- or three-antenna configuration that allows for a single baseline of data, which can present performance challenges on some vessels due to multipath interference caused by signal blockage.

Raymarine: Integrated Digital Switching

FLIR Systems, Inc. announced its Raymarine Axiom multifunction display (MFD) line is compatible with CZone digital control and monitoring systems. The collaboration enables boat builders and system integrators to deliver custom CZone digital switching solutions with rich graphical interfaces controlled through Raymarine’s line Axiom MFDs. CZone digital switching aims to simplify the installation of boat electrical systems through the replacement of complicated and often cumbersome traditional switch and fuse panels with networked digital switch interfaces…

B&G Debuts Zeus3S Glass Helm Display

B&G has launched the Zeus3S Glass Helm multifunction display system for large yachts. Available in 24-, 19- and 16-inch models, Zeus3S Glass Helm can be purchased as a standalone display or as a system packs including the display, GPS, keypad and accessories.The new Zeus3S Glass Helm displays allows sailors to have instant access to the sailing and system information due to a new iMX 8 integrated six-core processor. Zeus3S makes it possible to create custom helm layouts to suit any activity and switch seamlessly between layouts in an instant.

Best of 2019: myCharge Portable Charger

With the plethora of electronics carried today – Laptop, Cell Phone, Tablet, TV and Accessories –  portable power on the boat, on the go, is a must. The myCharge AdventureUltra Portable Charger packs a power punch to keep your running, a 13400mAh outdoor external battery pack with four ports (AC, USB-C, USB-A x2). Available for just over $50 on Amazon, the myCharge is recommended by the YachtingJournal.com staff, as tested during the summer and autumn of 2019.With a rugged and rubberized finish…

Alewijnse Tapped for AMELS 60 Superyacht

AMELS contracted Alewijnse Marine to perform the complete electrical systems installation on the first two vessels of its new range of Limited Edition AMELS 60 superyachts.The 60-meter long AMELS combines innovative naval architecture with hybrid propulsion technology.Alewijnse will deliver a total package of electrical installation and systems integration, encompassing an Integrated Bridge System, Audio-Video systems and IT network as well as the hybrid propulsion system.The electrical engineering phase is underway for the first AMELS 60.

Princecraft Launches Innovative Boat Models

Princecraft boats has announced the global launch of the all-new Platinum SE series premium fishing boat and the Vectra/Sportfisher pontoon series for model year 2020. Both categories have helped to redefine and expand the Princecraft brand beyond Quebec, giving the company the opportunity to continue its growth. Both the Vectra/Sportfisher and the Platinum SE have been in high demand with Princecraft dealers and customers as they offer the versatility, world-class quality and…

Intellian Launches v130NX

Intellian released the latest model in its new NX Series VSAT antenna portfolio. The v130NX is reported to be the world’s first Ku-Ka convertible VSAT terminal with a 1.25-m reflector, qualifying it for high-speed global Internet on ships, offshore vessels and superyachts.v130NX is a flexible system supporting Ku-band and Ka-band (2.5 GHz Wide) networks. It is also compatible with GEO (Geostationary Earth Orbit), MEO (Medium Earth Orbit) and LEO (Low Earth Orbit) constellations.

ACR Launches Next-Gen ResQLink PLB

ACR Electronics is launching its next-generation ResQLink Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) – the first and only buoyant PLBs designed using real-life survivor feedback. Providing a trusted and affordable link to rescue in a life-threatening situation, the new ResQLink 400 and ResQLink View PLBs introduce user-friendly design innovations and add enhanced functionality.Introducing ACR’s Optical Display Technology for even more reassurance and peace of mind, the ResQLink View’s screen displays all the beacon’s operational activities…

Simrad's New Pro Instrument Series

Announcing the Simrad I3005 and I3007 Professional Instrument Series. Offering easy touch control, the new 5-inch and 7-inch displays deliver a variety of attractive analog-style gauges and configurable digital data display layouts, as well as the ability to enable up to eight different functions simultaneously.Simrad I3005 and I3007 are IMO approved as a rudder angle indicator, heading repeater, rate-of-turn indicator (I3007 only), propeller pitch indicator and propeller revolution indicator…

Brunswick Sets New Records at FLIBS

Brunswick Corporation has announced that its Sea Ray, Boston Whaler and Mercury Marine brands have set multiple records during the 2019 Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show. Sea Ray, which launched an all-new 320 Sundancer Coupe at Ft. Lauderdale, saw a massive 80 percent increase in show sales from a year ago, demonstrating the success of its reinvention strategy. Boston Whaler continues to benefit from significant year-over-year sales growth in September and October, leading to a very successful Ft.

KVH Introduces TracVision UHD7

KVH Industries has introduced the TracVision UHD7, a high-performance 60 cm (24 inch) marine satellite TV antenna designed to provide boat owners, charter yacht guests, and commercial vessel crews with access to ultra high-definition (UHD) and 4K programming from DIRECTV as well as regular HD programming from other leading satellite TV providers. The system is on display at the Fort Lauderdale (FL) International Boat Show, October 30-November 3, in Booth 328.Designed for ease of installation and use…

Interview: Martin Kits van Heyningen, CEO, KVH

Connectivity is the backbone of modern maritime operations as ships and boats at sea increasingly become connected. We recently met with Martin Kits van Heyningen, CEO, KVH, to discuss the evolution of communication in the maritime sector and so much more, as KVH is diverse and engaged in a number of markets -- including autonomy for 10 years with work on about 30 different  platforms for self-driving vehicles.To start, give us a “State of KVH” today.We started originally in the leisure market…

AIS Provide Skidmarks on the Ocean

Many years ago, I received a call from an attorney who wanted me to get on the plane to Houston right away to take a look at damage on two ships that had collided in the approaches to Houston.He told me that both vessels had become confused, had started to turn and managed to occupy the same bit of ocean at the same time. His preliminary analysis indicated that, if he could prove the other vessel turned first, his vessel was in the clear.This was in the late eighties or early nineties, the course recorders had not been running, there was no VDR, and no electronic navigation record.

FLIR Introduces Raymarine DockSense Alert

FLIR Systems announced Raymarine DockSense Alert, a new addition to Raymarine’s intelligent docking technology line designed for a broader range of vessels. Raymarine DockSense, unveiled in early 2019, is the recreational marine industry’s first intelligent object recognition and motion-sensing assisted docking solution. Based on this patent pending technology, DockSense Alert can be installed on any boat to help captains safely monitor their surroundings and dock their boats with confidence.Similar to the driver-assist capabilities of today’s modern automobiles…

Dockmate Launches DockControl Software Solution

Dockmate U.S., which offers advanced handheld wireless remote controls for boats, has announced DockControl software for the ultimate in remote control customizability. Dockmate when combined with the DockControl software solution offers customers an off-the-shelf remote control solution that can be tailored to the real-world capabilities of their vessel and their own boating style.DockControl gives the installer the ability to program the remote control by choosing any combination of engine(s) and thruster(s) activation(s).

Vesper Marine Announces Cortex

Vesper Marine, a manufacturer of innovative marine electronics, announced the release of Cortex,  what the company said is the world’s first marine VHF radio with wireless touchscreen handsets, built-in Class B SOTDMA smartAIS transponder and remote vessel monitoring. “Innovation in AIS technology, touchscreen devices and vessel monitoring has skyrocketed in recent years, but marine VHF hasn’t kept pace and remains an anachronism,” said Jeff Robbins, CEO, Vesper Marine. “Cortex…

KVH Named Official Supplier of American Magic

KVH Industries, Inc., (Nasdaq: KVHI) has been named an Official Supplier of New York Yacht Club American Magic, a Challenger for the 36th America’s Cup. KVH has installed advanced satellite-based and cellular-based communications equipment for the team’s chase boats in order to facilitate high-speed data transmissions. In addition, KVH is providing high-performance fiber optic gyro (FOG)-based sensors to aid in performance metrics for the team’s race boats.The connectivity equipment KVH installed on American Magic’s chase boats includes: the TracPhone LTE-1…

YANMAR Introduces New Generation Electronics

YANMAR introduces its latest new-generation electronics with the launch of two new multi-purpose engine switch and instrument display solutions for boat owners. Compact and modern YANMAR display units offer market-leading solutions for a range of yachts, catamarans, motorboats and RIBs.The YANMAR YD42 Multi-Function Color Display and YD25 LCD Switch Panel Display offer innovative functionality and a compact and modern style to suit a range of yachts, catamarans, motorboats and RIBs.Featuring a low-profile glass helm design and a 4.1-inch full color screen…

The Relationship Between Marine Electronics and Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is becoming more prominent throughout marine electronics. Its uses range from allowing the leisure boat user to access internet-based entertainment, through to enabling commercial ship operators to monitor navigational data away from the ship.Wi-Fi itself was invented and released to consumers in 1997 and allowed two megabytes per second of data to be transferred wirelessly between devices. Over its 22-year history, Wi-Fi has developed in many ways. We are now in the age of Wi-Fi 6…

Inmarsat Enhances Superyacht Connectivity

Inmarsat has revealed plans to triple the number of satellites servicing its flagship Ka-band Global Xpress (GX) network, the high-capacity VSAT constellation behind its Fleet Xpress high-speed mobile broadband service, by 2023 to meet rapidly increasing user demand for data across the globe, including the Arctic region.Inmarsat’s GX fleet is currently composed of four satellites (GX1-4). The initial launches, the first of which is scheduled for this year, will see it augmented by three GX payloads (GX5, GX6A and GX6B) by 2021.

Boat Fix Announces 24/7/365 Service

Boat Fix, a leading telematics service for boat owners, has announced the launch of its unique vessel monitoring system and Boat Fix Advisors service worldwide.Boat Fix offers the boat owner 24/7/365 customer support. Designed for vessels of all types, ages and sizes, the Boat Fix service offers remote monitoring of all of the vital functions such as battery, bilge pump, shore power and engine hours. The system also enhances vessel security with its anti-theft device for outboard motors and GPS geofencing functionality…

IMOCA Appoints Iridium

Iridium Communications has announced that the International Monohull Open Class Association (IMOCA), has named Iridium as their Official Communications Partner for the 2019-2021 race season. IMOCA has also chosen Thales as its partner and sole provider of Iridium Certus L-band broadband equipment and will equip the IMOCA racing fleet with their VesseLINK connectivity solution. From June 2019 to June 2021, IMOCA race teams will rely upon Iridium Certus as their primary means of satellite communication. Together, Iridium and Thales will provide satcom connectivity for several high-profile yachting events that attract a global audience…

smartAIS Data on Navionics Mobile Apps

Vesper Marine, a leading manufacturer of innovative marine safety products, has announced AIS data from Vesper Marine smartAIS transponders is now available on the Navionics apps Boating Marine  & Lakes  for Apple devices and Boating HD  Marine & Lakes  for Android devices.With this new feature, the app enables boaters to view Class A and Class B vessels and Aids to Navigation (AtoN) directly on the app’s nautical charts. Especially useful during low visibility and in heavy traffic areas…

Simrad Announces BoatConnect

Announcing the latest in remote, real-time vessel monitoring – Simrad BoatConnect provides boat owners with the ultimate peace of mind at an unparalleled value, keeping users informed of their boat’s location, battery level, trip history and more.Delivering important updates on a boat’s status to a compatible smartphone, BoatConnect is comprised of an easy-to-install hub and an easy-to-use app. Once installed, the solution provides at-a-glance information to enhance the boating experience.Perfect for trip planning…

Sperry Marine Delivers Superyacht Solution

Northrop Grumman Sperry Marine service engineers are used to responding to urgent demands for repairs, maintenance and system upgrades. When the crew of 46m superyacht Forwin had no one else to call, they asked the Sperry Marine service team to fix a problem that they didn’t even know they had.Built in Italy and originally operated in the Mediterranean Forwin was en route from its new home port in Hong Kong to the Maldives when the steering system malfunctioned, forcing the boat…

C-MAP: East Coast Charts Now Shipping

C-MAP said its C-MAP Reveal charts for the East Coast are now shipping. C-MAP Reveal cartography offers all the navigation data and capability of a C-MAP MAX-N+ card, plus ultra high-resolution bathymetric (HRB) imagery of the sea floor, including a clear view of structure, wrecks, isolated reefs and ledges in between the contour lines.The C-MAP Reveal imagery replaces shaded-relief data in select areas with more accurate depth variations, allowing it to reveal the best fishing and diving spots.

Navico Names Knut Frostad CEO

Navico, parent company to the Lowrance, Simrad, B&G and C-MAP brands, announced on Thursday that its board of directors has appointed Knut Frostad as President and Chief Executive Officer.“Knut Frostad has been on Navico’s board for 14 years and brings solid experience in the industry and understanding of our business as former CEO of the Volvo Ocean Race, as well as director and advisor to several international companies,” said Hugo Maurstad, chairman of the board of NavicoFrostad’s day-to-day leadership of Navico will begin immediately…

First VHF Radio with Transmit/Receive AIS

B&G announced the release of the first VHF radio with a fully integrated Class B AIS transceiver, the V60-B VHF radio. For the first time, a VHF radio can transmit your vessel’s position over AIS. The V60-B has a large screen, intuitive interface, built-in AIS Class B transceiver, a front-mountable design for easy installation and optional wireless handsets with inductive charging.The AIS transceiver built into the V60-B can receive position data from other vessels like the original V60 but is also capable of sharing its position with nearby AIS-equipped vessels…

FLIR Introduces Raymarine Element S Nav Displays

FLIR Systems has announced Raymarine Element S, a new series of navigation displays for cruisers and sailors.Building on the success of FLIR’s Raymarine Element HV Series with HyperVision sonar, the Element S models feature a superior all-weather display, best-in-class speed, and straightforward operation, while delivering confidence-inspiring GPS navigation to captains who don’t want or need the capability or extra expense of sophisticated sonar.Element S is available in 7-, 9-…

Simrad Introduces P3007, P2005 GPS Series

Announcing the Simrad P3007 and P2005 GPS series – superior color displays offering intuitive touch control, high-accuracy position data and unmatched reliability. Available in a choice of 5- or 7-inch displays, the easy to operate systems enable distribution of position, course, speed, time and navigation data to other bridge systems such as radar, ECDIS and autopilot.An all-in-one solution designed to replace the MX612, MX610, and GN70, the P3007 GPS is IMO approved for SOLAS vessels.

Helikon Shipping Embraces Voyager Money

Bulk carrier operator Helikon Shipping has adopted Voyager Money, an innovative way to reduce onboard cash holdings, improve operating costs, and increase security.Voyager Money is provided by leading maritime data solutions provider Global Navigation Solutions (GNS) in partnership with international payments solution provider Caxton FX and is being adopted by shipowners who want to take the complexity out of cash management.Voyager Money provides an international payments and…

Raymarine: Unveiling Yamaha Outboard Integration

FLIR has announced the addition of Yamaha Command Link and Command Link Plus integration into Raymarine’s family of Axiom multifunction displays. This new capability is one of many new features introduced with the recent release of the LightHouse Annapolis 3.9 operating system for Axiom.Certified by Yamaha, Raymarine’s Axiom series of multifunction can now display the instrumentation for up to four Yamaha outboard engines on a single display. The Axiom engine data display echoes…

New Wi-Fi Gateway With Data Logging

Actisense launched tits Wi-Fi Gateway, the W2K-1, which also records a variety of marine vessel data.Actisense released the W2K-1, its NMEA 2000 Wi-Fi Gateway with data logging technology that has the ability to record navigational and engine data.The W2K-1 can transmit NMEA 2000 data using TCP and UPD while also offering support for conversion to NMEA 0183. In addition, the device has the ability to log a wide variety of vessel data such as position, speed, course, depth, wind speed and engine data.All data received from the vessel is logged on the W2K-1’s internal micro SD card…

Dockmate at Seawork International

Recently brought to the UK’s shores, Dockmate is a future proof, wireless remote-control boat steering system that can be fitted in less than a day on any boat or yacht across the country from driveway to dry dock. Designed to eliminate all the worry and uncertainty associated with docking, Dockmate has confirmed it will be exhibiting for the first time at this year’s Seawork International - Quayside.The team at Dockmate will demonstrate how its remote boat docking technology…

Tickfaw 200 Powerboat Poker Run

Once more renowned for picking strawberries not royal flushes, Livingston Parish now hosts Louisiana’s largest poker powerboat run, Tickfaw 200, bringing performance powerboaters to the bayou state in springtime. “It’s the Baja 500 and the Iditarod of powerboating,” said Keith Cacioppo, a lifelong boater with a 30-foot cruiser who’s attended The Tickfaw 200 for 11 straight years.Cacioppo has never run the 200, but is one of hundreds of spectator boats charging the event with energy and cheers.“My boat couldn’t handle it,” said Cacioppa. “This is for the big dogs.

NAUTIC-ON Wins 2019 Boating Industry Top Product Award

NAUTIC-ON has been selected as a 2019 Boating Industry Top Product winner for its Smart Boating Platform. The award recognizes the most innovative products introduced to the marine industry over the past year. NAUTIC-ON’s Smart Boating Platform goes beyond boat monitoring, providing a connected platform designed to improve the boating experience by delivering benefits to both boat owners and service providers.NAUTIC-ON will be a standard feature on 2020 Boston Whaler Models 25’ up and on all Sea Ray 2020 Sundancer and SLX models 25’ and above.Last year…

Fusion Launches New Apollo RA670 Stereo

Fusion offers the new Apollo RA670, a marine stereo featuring a brilliant, optically bonded, full-color LCD display, Fusion’s Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology, Fusion-Link integration and control, multi-zone control in up to three audio zones and PartyBus capabilities when connected to a Wi-Fi or Apollo network; the RA670 is a powerful extension of the Apollo Series.The Apollo Series harnesses the power of Fusion’s DSP technology, designed to deliver premium audio  to all speakers in any environment.

B&G Announces WS700 Vertical Wind Sensor

B&G offers a new vertical wind sensor designed for racing and larger cruising yachts – the WS700.Almost 35 years since launching the first version of the 213 Masthead Unit, B&G engineered the WS700 was designed to be the most accurate and reliable sensor of its kind. Providing wind data with unparalleled accuracy, the instrument is mounted on a spar that elevates it above sail-plan disturbances. At the core of the WS700 sensor are new electronics that enable accurate measurements of wind angle and speed.

Broker sells four yachts in three months

Former big boat captain turned superyacht broker, Mark Elliott, sold four brokerage vessels during the first quarter of 2019, closing for $48 million. Three of the boats moved in March.Deals closed on M/Y Bella Una, a 127-foot Burger, as well as Christensen’s 164-foot M/Y Three Forks,124-foot M/Y Carte Blanche by Trinity, and 157-foot M/Y Carolina, a classic Feadship.The strong economy and consumer spending confidence demonstrate the yacht market has definitely bounced back. A veteran 20-year broker with IYC…

Nauti-Tech Launches Satellite Internet Service

FMC GlobalSat 4G/LTSAT is the fastest and most reliable marine wireless and satellite Internet service available. Available through its US-based distributor, Nauti-Tech, the next-generation cellular/VSAT bundles feature the new Kymeta MTenna flat panel antenna. With global satellite access using Ku band, it boasts un-throttled LTE/VSAT connectivity at 150Mbps on 4G/LTE and 5Mbps bandwidth on HTS satellite.Nauti-Tech offers a wide range of monthly plans ranging from 10GB–400GB.

Hall of Fame Marina gets new docks

Hall of Fame Marina in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. is expanding with new, concrete floating docks. With the permitting phase complete, dock renovation with Bellingham Marine will commence this summer, with construction completed in fall, to accommodate Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) 2019. As Hall of Fame provides dockage for FLIBS, the Westrec marina anticipates hosting more superyachts up to 160-feet.The new piers will be 150-feet in length. The footprint is changing with about 600-feet of concrete floating docks replacing 400-feet of wooden docks.

Simrad Cruise: A New Chart Plotter

Simrad Yachting announced Simrad Cruise, an intuitive chart plotter. Designed for simple and straightforward navigation, Cruise features a simple, easy-to-use interface, sunlight-viewable display, pre-loaded U.S. coastal charts, mounting bracket and sonar transducer.Taking ease of use to a new level, Simrad Cruise combines essential GPS features with basic depth-finding capability to deliver safe and reliable navigation at an affordable price. Free from complicated fishing-specific sonar and networking features…

KVH Debuts New VSAT Antenna

KVH introduced the TracPhone V11-HTS, and antenna that the company dubs 'the world’s fastest' 1 meter Ku/C-band maritime VSAT antenna.The V11-HTS is designed to deliver data speeds as fast as 20 Mbps down/3 Mbps, supporting the upward trend of information transport on commercial ships today for operations, Internet of Things (IoT) applications, and crew connectivity.“With the TracPhone V11-HTS, we continue to bring innovative solutions to the maritime market, enabling commercial vessel operators to take advantage of the many benefits of VSAT…

Forecast: Pretty Palm Beach Boat Show

The 34th annual Palm Beach International Boat Show, March 28 - 31, 2019, is one of the top five boat shows in the country. Situated on Flagler Drive in downtown West Palm Beach, directly across the Intracoastal Waterway from Palm Beach Island, this is the last major international show of the season, attended by serious shoppers and key brokers and builders ready to make deals.With beautiful spring weather, Palm Beach is fast becoming everyone’s favorite, must-attend event, with some opting to skip the two February boats shows in Miami this year.

First Deployment of a Kymeta Sat Antenna

FMC GlobalSat has deployed the world’s first use of the Kymeta software-steered satellite antenna aboard a sportfishing yacht, delivering satellite and wireless network access through its 4G/LTSAT service. Through this solution, the award-winning S.Y. Bad Daddy, a 76-foot Spencer, has global access to FMC GlobalSat’s 4G/LTSAT converged communications platform to receive uninterrupted network connectivity in port and at sea. The solution aboard the S.Y. Bad Daddy leverages a Kymeta…

PROJECT PHOENIX. RISING 2020.

Project Phoenix Series is a revolutionary spec build, representing the collaboration of an American design and engineering team and a South Korean shipyard constructing the first superyacht in the world’s leading shipbuilding nation.Lazzara Ombres Architects of Tampa, Fla. partnered with BongChul “BC” Kim of GHI Shipyard to build their 130-foot, aluminum luxury sport superyacht design. With the vessel’s hull and superstructure now complete for the five stateroom vessel, interior and outfitting will commence with the vision of interior designer Alexandre Thiriat. Mr.

Navico Mourns Passing of Darrell Lowrance

Navico, parent company to the Lowrance, Simrad, B&G and C-MAP brands, announced today the passing of Darrell J. Lowrance, founder of its Lowrance brand.Darrell served as President and CEO of Lowrance Electronics from 1964 to 2006, and was responsible for many breakthroughs in marine electronics. In addition to the first recreational sonar product for anglers – the Fish-Lo-K-Tor (also known as the “Little Green Box”) – he led the development of the first graph recorder, the first integrated sonar/GPS unit, and many others.

Miami-Based Shipyard Adds Electronic Systems Division

Florida shipyard RMK Merrill-Stevens is adding a new Electronic Systems Division to the company.To lead the new business the company hired David Gratton, a new RMK Merrill-Stevens employee with experience in the electronics industry. Gratton’s career in electronics began in 1980 upon entering the U.S. Air Force. Gratton later worked on the environmental testing of NASA components for Teledyne Systems Company. Gratton has specialized in navigation, communications, and audio-visual, IT/networking, and PLC systems for commercial and recreational vessels.

KVH VSAT Shipping Reaches Milestone

KVH Industries shipped its 9,000th mini-Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) Broadband system."The milestone highlights KVH’s position as a maritime VSAT market share leader providing satellite broadband connectivity to vessels around the world," said a press release from the US-based manufacturer of mobile satellite communications solutions.KVH’s TracPhone V-series antenna systems are designed to provide satellite broadband connectivity to commercial and personal vessels globally…

Whirlwind of change: Where’s Trinity Yachts' crew today?

Four key players of the disbanded Trinity Yachts, once the world’s sixth largest custom yacht builder, are working in new roles in yachting since the company’s break-up about four years ago.Billy Smith, Geoffrey van Aller, Jim Berulis and Phil Nuss rolled with the punches, just as they did when this author interviewed them at Trinity’s Cinco de Mayo crayfish boil celebrating their new Gulfport facility in Mississippi in May, 2006. In a region suffering after Hurricane Katrina toppled the Gulf Coast and sank New Orleans on August 29…

Riviera to Showcase New Yachts in Japan

Riviera to showcase blue-water 43 Open Flybridge at the Japan International Boat Show and the 445 SUV at March 16 Premiere in Japan.Australia's premium luxury motor yacht builder, Riviera, will showcase its blue-water 43 Open Flybridge model in conjunction with Riviera and Belize representative Unimat Precious at the Japan International Boat Show in Yokohama over four days from Thursday, March 7.Unimat Precious representative Mitsuru Ishii said he and his team are honored to showcase…

Mariner Assessment: "There's an App for That"

Carnival Corporation partnered with Marine Learning Systems to develop an App for mariner skills assessment.Dubbed SkillGrader, the App was designed to help standardize Carnival Corporation’s training and assessment across the company’s fleet of 105 ships and 9 brands. Prior to its development, there were numerous different approaches to training, with hundreds of programs, and a variety of fleet trainers and external training providers.“We wanted to align and standardize our approach.” says John Allen, Carnival Corporation’s Director of Maritime Professional Development.

Hatteland Display, Elektronix Merge

Maritime display and computer manufacturer Hatteland Display has announced that it is merging with advanced technology solutions provider Elektronix. Under the terms of this unification, the two subsidiaries of the EMBRON group will now become a single entity, called Hatteland Technology.As a provider of advanced technology solutions within industrial computing, security & surveillance and industrial networking, the Elektronix portfolio is highly complimentary with Hatteland Display’s offering as the global leader in maritime display and computer systems.

Perfect weather for Miami Yacht Show

While Wednesday was quite blustery and rainy, the Miami Yacht Show opened to clear skies on Valentine’s Day, for a gorgeous weekend of luxury boats and sun. In its new location, crowds seemed smaller, although lines for Uber frustrated some commuting by car from the Miami Boat Show on Virginia Key to the Miami Yacht Show’s two locations on Watson Island and One Herald Plaza. There was no wait for water taxis.Some prevailing themes stood out among the nearly 500 yachts in the brokerage show between the Venetian and Rickenbacker Causeways.

Yellowfin Yachts Offering Klipsch Sound System

Yellowfin Yachts has partnered with ASA Electronics and now offers Premium Klipsch Marine Sound on many boat models. The Klipsch Complete Marine Sound System is custom-tuned and configured for each model to provide the best audio performance possible.The heart of the system, Bongiovi DPS Core Technology, dynamically adjusts and remasters the music in real-time, restoring it to playback the way the artist originally intended it to be heard. This ensures crystal clear studio grade audio, even with engine, wind and ambient noise.The 21 Hybrid…

Hatteland Expands 4K Display Portfolio

Hatteland Display released a new 43 inch premium quality display as part of its Series X MVD product family. Hatteland Display’s latest UHD system features the same 4K panel technology as existing Series X MVD variants, all of which are designed to deliver the brightest, clearest picture for the safe and effective operation of bridge navigation and control systems.With 3840 × 2160 pixels compared to 1920 x 1080 on Full High Definition (FHD) displays, UHD is a significant technology improvement that empowers maritime technology manufacturers to develop new…

Two Valentine's Day Boat Shows in Miami

If you love boats, there’s no better way to enjoy Valentine’s Day than in Miami, Fla. among 2,000 of the world’s most spectacular yachts and pleasure craft. With temps forecasted in the mid 70’s F, Miami welcomes the world to two different boat shows in three locations, Miami Boat Show and Miami Yacht Show, amid breathtaking views, exotic sports cars, beautiful, stylish women and hand-rolled cigars.In its first year downtown on Miami’s Biscayne Bay, the 31st annual Miami Yacht Show takes place February 14 -18. Many yachting veterans will miss the show’s location on Collins Ave.

RMK Merrill-Stevens introduces electronics division.

The refit on the Miami River continues as RMK Merrill-Stevens Shipyard (RMKMS) introduces a marine electronics service and sales division led by David Gratton, past chairman of National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA). Gratton is an expert outfitting megayachts with complete electronics systems, having serviced and installed equipment on thousands of vessels with Martek of Palm Beach, which closed in 2018. During his tenure at Martek and on NMEA’s board, Gratton pioneered…

Dan Lenard crosses Atlantic on the world’s greenest sailboat.

Like another Italian explorer who set sail from Spain to discover a new world, Christopher Columbus, renowned superyacht designer Dan Lenard is making the same journey. However, Lenard is creating a whole, new world as he personally tries to change the marine industry, embarking upon a solo, transatlantic crossing using no hydrocarbons or electronics in his prototype sailboat, Vela 33.Without any technology - no GPS, no compass, no autopilot, no fuel, no engine, no battery and no generator -  Lenard will navigate the Atlantic solely by sight, stars and sun.

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.