Garmin® unveils all-new GPSMAPR 86 marine handheld series with global communication, BlueChartR g3
by Alizee Paquis 11 Sep 2019 00:49 PDT
Garmin International, Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ:GRMN), today announced the all-new GPSMAP 86 handheld series, a feature-packed addition to its popular marine handheld collection.
The flagship GPSMAP 86i is combining Garmin's premium GPS navigation with inReach® satellite communication technology*. Both the GPSMAP 86s and the GPSMAP 86i supports optional Garmin BlueChart g3 cartography with integrated Navionics data. For added awareness and convenience, the GPSMAP 86 series can connect to onboard Garmin chartplotters and instruments to stream real-time boat data, including depth, heading, sea temperature and more, directly to the handheld. With a sunlight-readable 3-inch colour display and a water-resistant*, floating design, they even double as a remote control for convenient operation of an onboard Garmin autopilot or select FUSION® marine stereos and speakers.
"Loaded with premium features in an all-new design, the GPSMAP 86 marine handhelds are fully capable of being both a primary navigation device or as an extension and backup to your onboard system," said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. "With the addition of our industry-leading inReach satellite communication technology and best-in-class marine mapping, no one should leave the dock without one."
The GPSMAP 86i offers Garmin inReach two-way messaging and location tracking technology, so no matter how far offshore the trip may be, users can stay in touch. Using the worldwide coverage of the Iridium® satellite network, allowing users to communicate with any cell phone number, email address or other inReach device while using GPS to track and share progress of the journey.
If the user enables LiveTrack, friends and family on shore wanting to follow along can view the user's location. The GPSMAP 86i also include a mount for hardwiring on the boat, and wireless unitto-unit connectivity lets users remotely connect to the GPSMAP to send and receive messages on the chartplotter with the handheld securely mounted in a convenient location.
Mariners can use the GPSMAP 86i to trigger an interactive SOS for emergency help from a 24/7 GEOS International Emergency Response Coordination Center. The world leader in emergency response solutions and monitoring, GEOS will alert emergency responders and provide updates to the user's key contacts, while also continuing to message back and forth with the user, until the situation is resolved.
To access the Iridium network and communicate with a GPSMAP 86i device, an active satellite subscription is required. A variety of subscription plans are available for both individuals and groups/fleets, and mariners will appreciate the flexible month-to-month options that can be suspended in the offseason if desired.
Both the GPSMAP 86i and GPSMAP 86s are compatible with BlueChart g3 coastal charts for industryleading coverage, clarity and detail with integrated Garmin and Navionics data. Detailed contours allow users to see 1-foot contours that provide a more accurate depiction of bottom structure for improved fishing charts and enhanced detail in canals and port plans.
It's easier than ever to stay in touch with a GPSMAP 86 handheld onboard. Each device offers WiFi® connectivity, ANT+® technology and Bluetooth wireless technology for easy wireless updates and connections, including smart notifications when paired with a compatible smartphone. When paired with the free Garmin Explore™ app, users can upload their favourite waypoints, tracks and routes and have access to additional tools and features for trip planning, mapping and data sharing.
Additionally, the GPSMAP 86 series features support for the Connect IQTM app, a no-cost all-in-one store where users can access free apps, widgets and data fields to customise their handheld. Each new GPSMAP handheld comes with an internal, rechargeable lithium battery. Get up to 40 hours of battery life in standard mode and up to 200 hours of battery life in expedition mode with the GPSMAP 86s. The GPSMAP 86i provides up to 35 hours of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode and up to 200 hours of battery life in expedition mode.
The new GPMSAP 86 marine handheld series is available now with suggested retail prices ranging from £349.99 to £519.99. To learn more, visit garmin.com/marine.
*Satellite subscription required.
*Rated to IPX7 standards.