A handheld GPS isn’t just for hikers — for boaters and anglers it’s a genuinely useful primary unit for small craft, or a smart backup for anyone running a fixed chartplotter offshore.
Why carry one even with a fixed chartplotter
Electronics fail, and a fixed chartplotter going dark offshore is a genuinely bad moment. A charged handheld like the Garmin GPSMAP 86sc in a dry bag is cheap insurance — floating, waterproof, and preloaded with BlueChart g3 charts so it’s immediately usable, not just a blank GPS.
Primary use for kayaks and small tenders
For a kayak or small tender where a fixed install isn’t practical, a handheld gives you charts and navigation with zero wiring — clip it to your PFD or deck rigging and you’re set.
What to look for
- Floating in water — not just splash-resistant
- Preloaded marine charts, not just a basemap
- Battery life rated for a full day’s use
Browse our full GPS and chartplotter range or get in touch if you’re deciding between handheld and fixed-mount for your boat.
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