Using GARMIN or other charts on your Ipad

[pescador]

I’ve started using Garmin maps on my large IPad Pro (12 inch). So far just at home plotting and looking at areas I usually fish at. It’s so much easier than plotting on the boats mounted units. How many of you navigate on board your boat using your Ipad? I’m thinking about mounting a Ram mount on my dash and having the iPad as a 3rd unit on board. I don’t have cell capability on my iPad. Is that going to limit my capability when I’m anywhere or does the gps give me everything I need? If you do this, how did you mount it?

 

[bigbruce]

I've used my iPad as a back up navigation device and found that it worked pretty well - as long as it was out of the sun to cut the glare. If you don't have cell capability on your iPad, you'll need a Garmin Glo that connects to the iPad via bluetooth and gives you the satellite connections you'll need.

 

[Sir Reel]

I just use my Garmin on my iPad to plot my courses and calculate distances and fuel burn. Plus look for anchorages, fishing, crabbing , prawning spots. Its great for that.
I have the app on my cell phone too and that one works without cell coverage with built in GPS. It provides a good backup.
Haven't tried it but wonder if you can tether to your iPad and transfer GPS info through. Worth a shot.

I do find the the Garmin app is not as detailed as the C-Maps on my Raymarine chart plotter. Plus you quite often have to zoom right in to see obstacles and buoys on the Garmin.
For example. I don't see the QA buoy off of UBC until zoomed into .2 miles. Anything greater and its not there.

 

[pescador]

I'm going it take out to Bowen next week and just give it a whirl. Its just so easy to plot on the iPad. Before I go and spend on a Ram mount I want to ensure its of value. Not sure I can tether between my Garmin 740's and the iPad. I don't thing that capability was available back in 2012 when I bought them. I'll check out Glo if thats the solution. I have a SIM card port for the iPad, just haven't plugged anything into it yet. Maybe I should?

 

[cuttlefish]

I connect my pocket GPS https://bad-elf.com/collections/bluetooth-gps and Navionics on my iPad mini for calculating courses, creating routes, etc. And for backup.
Glare in sunlight is defeated with a ZipLock over top the iPad. Works as a rain coat outdoors and touch screen still functions as well.

 

[Tyler Brinks]

I use my iPad all the time with the Navionics app for viewing maps and using SonarChart Live to map areas. Get a good waterproof case and it will be fine either in your hands or on a mount. Besides live mapping you can also get auto routing and have access to other advanced map features.

Here are a few shots of the live mapping.