10 Best Garmin GPS Devices For Boats 2025 in the United States

The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv is a feature-packed GPS device designed for boating enthusiasts. With a 9-inch touchscreen, it offers a bright and readable display even in sunlight, making it easy to view important data at a glance. The high-resolution screen enhances clarity and detail, which is beneficial for navigation and identifying underwater structures. The device comes with a GT56 transducer, allowing for traditional, ClearVü, and SideVü sonar scanning. This provides comprehensive sonar capabilities, essential for fishing and understanding underwater environments.

The built-in Garmin Navionics+ coastal charts are a valuable addition, integrating extensive mapping data for U.S. coastal areas, which can be extremely helpful for coastal navigation. Connectivity options include built-in Wi-Fi, enabling wireless sharing of sonar data, waypoints, and routes with other ECHOMAP UHD2 units, enhancing collaborative use. It also connects wirelessly to the Force trolling motor for advanced control features.

The dashboard or panel mounting allows for flexible installation, and the device is designed with boating durability in mind. The user interface is intuitive and touch-friendly, which simplifies operation for users of all experience levels. One consideration is the larger size and weight (8.08 pounds), which may require adequate mounting space. This device is well-suited for serious boating and fishing enthusiasts who need a reliable and comprehensive navigation tool.

The Garmin GPSMAP 67i Rugged GPS Handheld is a solid choice for boating enthusiasts. With its large 3-inch sunlight-readable color display, it's easy to view maps and data even in bright outdoor conditions. While it lacks dedicated chartplotter and sonar capabilities, it excels in navigation through its preloaded TopoActive maps, satellite imagery, multi-band GNSS support, and various sensors. This ensures precise location tracking and reliable navigation in diverse environments.

Connectivity options include Bluetooth and USB, enabling pairing with compatible smartphones to access weather forecasts and Geocaching Live, enhancing your boating experience. The device's ruggedness is evident with its durable construction and waterproof rating, making it suitable for harsh marine conditions. The rechargeable lithium battery offers impressive longevity, with up to 165 hours in tracking mode and 425 hours in expedition mode.

The user interface, operated through buttons, is straightforward and user-friendly, even for those not highly tech-savvy. However, the need for a subscription for satellite communication and premium mapping content may be a drawback for some users. The Garmin GPSMAP 67i is a reliable and durable handheld GPS device for boating and outdoor activities.

The Garmin 010-01741-00 GPSMAP 1222 with Worldwide Basemap is well-suited for boat owners looking for a reliable navigation device. Its 12-inch WXGA display with a high resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels provides clear and detailed visuals, making it easy to read maps and charts. The device supports chartplotter functionality, which is essential for safe and accurate navigation on the water.

Additionally, it includes sonar capabilities, offering robust connectivity options with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy updates and integration with other devices. The inclusion of two Garmin Marine Network ports further enhances connectivity options for additional sensors and devices. The device has a durable build and is designed for marine environments.

At a higher price point and being an older model (first available in 2017), potential buyers might want to consider newer models with more advanced features. Despite these considerations, the Garmin GPSMAP 1222 offers strong performance in navigation and connectivity, making it a valuable tool for boat navigation.