Carver Owners Forum

Any observations would be greatly appreciated. My 2000 Carver 396 has an old SIMRAD system. Radar works fine. Previous owner installed new depth finder that works fine. Chart plotter does not work. I tried replacing the GPS antenna thinking that was the problem but it was not.

I am interested in a new chart plotter with auto guidance or dock-to-dock capability. Basically a chart plotter that does just that and doesn't break the bank. Perhaps a smaller screen device that can be mirrored to a larger screen? Any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

This topic has come up from time to time on the forum. Look into using an iPad with the Navionics app. I just purchased a new iPad Pro, with a 12.9 inch screen as apposed to replacing my E80 Chartplotter. My E80 still works so I use the iPad as my primary and have been using an older, smaller iPad for many years. I use the E80 for general mapping, auto pilot, depth and the radar.

The charts are very clear and the GPS on the WiFi/cellular model is very accurate. The nice thing is, you do NOT need a monthly cellular plan from a carrier to use the GPS in the unit so it plots you very accurately. A lot of folks are switching to an iPad v.s. buying extremely expensive MFD's.

Always have a back up. With Navionics on your iPad, it is also available on your other devices such as an iPhone, etc. for one price. There is an initial fee for the Navionics app and then a $29.99 CDN annual fee that ensures the charts are always up to date and you have the auto routing amongst other features.

I mount the iPad to my helm with a product from Sea Sucker so I don't have to drill holes in the dash.

JMHO. Good luck.

Greg