Marine Navigation & Instruments
Stay on course with precision marine navigation instruments built for accuracy and safety
At The Outdoor Warehouse, we provide dependable boat navigation systems including compasses, GPS chartplotters, depth sounders, and fish finders. Whether you’re day boating, fishing, or heading offshore, our collection is designed for clarity, accuracy, and safety.
Also known as marine GPS, chartplotters, sonar systems, depth finders, and marine compasses, these instruments are trusted by recreational and professional captains alike. We stock leading brands like Garmin, Raymarine, Lowrance, and Simrad to ensure proven quality on the water.
Why Marine Navigation Matters
- Backup is Key: Even with GPS, carry a reliable chart and compass.
- Depth Awareness: Use fish finders or depth sounders to avoid hazards.
- Integration: Many units connect with radios for maximum safety.
- Visibility: Choose waterproof displays with sunlight-readable screens.
- Compliance: USCG and ABYC recommend having approved navigation tools for safe passage.
Navigation Instruments at a Glance
Instrument | Best For | Key Features |
---|---|---|
Compasses | Backup navigation | Magnetic, reliable, no power required |
GPS Chartplotters | Route planning & navigation | Touchscreen, preloaded maps, NMEA 2000 connectivity |
Depth Sounders | Hazard avoidance | Real-time depth, alarms, integrated sensors |
Fish Finders | Fishing & navigation | Sonar imaging, GPS options, multi-display |
Weather Instruments | Safety planning | Barometers, wind gauges, digital weather feeds |
Good / Better / Best Navigation Setups
- Good: Compass + Paper Charts — essential backup for all vessels.
- Better: GPS Chartplotter + Depth Sounder — ideal for coastal cruising and day trips.
- Best: Integrated Radar + AIS + Sonar Suite — pro-level solution for offshore and commercial use.
Navigation Gear by Boating Style
- Day Boaters: Compact GPS units and handheld compasses.
- Coastal Cruisers: Chartplotters paired with depth sounders.
- Sailing: GPS navigation + wind instruments for precision tacking.
- Fishing: Chartplotter/fishfinder combos with sonar imaging.
- Offshore: Radar + AIS for long-range visibility and collision avoidance.
Pro Tip
Look for equipment with NMEA 2000 compatibility to integrate your GPS, radar, sonar, and radios seamlessly. This ensures easier upgrades and a future-proof system.
Quick Glossary
- AIS (Automatic Identification System): A system that broadcasts your vessel’s position and reads others to avoid collisions.
- NMEA 2000: A marine networking standard that allows multiple devices (GPS, radios, engines, sensors) to share data.
- Chartplotter: A GPS-based device that displays digital charts for route planning and navigation.
Pair Your Navigation With
Why Buy Navigation Instruments from The Outdoor Warehouse?
- Curated selection of compasses, GPS chartplotters, depth sounders, and sonar systems.
- All products meet or exceed ABYC, NMMA, and USCG standards for compliance.
- Trusted by weekend sailors, offshore anglers, and professional captains.
- Expert-backed support and fast shipping across the U.S.
Shop premium marine navigation instruments today at The Outdoor Warehouse and set sail with total confidence.