It's that time of year again! When everyone goes shopping, they pick out gifts for the special people in their lives. Do you have an angler or sailor on your list? Or are you looking for yourself to get some inspiration for your wish list?
Well, whatever the case, today, this post highlights the top marine smartwatches and where to get them!
Top 6 Picks: The Best Watch for Marine Navigation in 2024
From basic GPS tracking to advanced autopilot controls, today's best marine smartwatches can do it all. But which features do you actually need?
Our team of experienced boaters tested this year's top options to find ones that truly deliver – whether you're cruising, fishing, or racing. Here's what we discovered, with picks for every budget:
1. Garmin Quatix 7
The Garmin Quatix 7 feels like having your boat's control center conveniently on your wrist. This durable marine smartwatch offers an impressive battery life of up to 18 days on a single charge and can withstand depths of up to 100 meters. Even better, you can easily manage your boat's autopilot and pinpoint fishing locations.
This watch is great because it operates with both touch and buttons, making it user-friendly – even when your hands are wet. Additionally, it provides useful alerts about tides and lets you know if your anchor begins to drag!
2. Suunto Elementum Ventus
Continuing down on our list, the Suunto Elementum Ventus is a high-end sailing watch that combines style with functionality. First off, this high-end gadget features beautiful Finnish craftsmanship with its sleek stainless steel design. Plus, its sapphire crystal display isn't just for looks – it's built to handle whatever the water throws at it.
Additionally, this marine smartwatch is an ideal companion for both racing and cruising, featuring weather prediction tools, a sailing timer, and a 3D compass. We particularly love this watch because of its essential sailing features, making it a perfect choice for your time on deck and nights in port.
3. TANK Smartwatch
The TANK Smartwatch combines military-grade toughness with intelligent features you'll actually use. Built for underwater training up to 30 meters deep, it's perfect for water activities. Plus, the easy-to-read display gives you crucial stats like oxygen levels and heart rate, while its dual GPS keeps you on track whether you're in open water or on land.
Our team loves this watch because it lasts up to 20 days on just one charge and can withstand chlorinated pool water without any issues. Additionally, the built-in SpO2 monitor tracks your oxygen levels during training, helping to prevent shallow water blackouts.
4. Google Pixel Watch 3
The Google Pixel Watch 3 shines on the water with its ultra-bright display that you can read even in harsh sunlight. Boaters love that it is water-resistant up to 50 meters and tracks over 40 activities – perfect for water sports enthusiasts.
Additionally, the battery life won't hold you back either. You'll get up to 36 hours in Battery Saver mode – plenty of time for a full day of fishing. And one of our favorite features is the Safety Check system, which adds peace of mind during solo adventures.
Here's how it works: simply set a timer before heading out, and if you don't check in, it shares your location with chosen contacts.
5. Garmin fēnix 7 Pro – Sapphire Solar Edition
Passionate about fishing and cruising? The Garmin fēnix 7 Pro – Sapphire Solar might be perfect for you. This watch helps plan your day with accurate tide information and sunset times. And speaking of durability, it's tested to military standards and is water-resistant. (That means salt spray and splashes are no problem at all.)
Another great feature is solar charging – meaning you'll get up to 22 days between charges. (We especially love how this watch combines durability with smart features.) And the detailed navigation maps are crystal clear on the 1.3" display!
6. Apple Watch
As we wrap up our series on the best watch for marine navigation, we can't overlook the classic Apple Watch. (It's a favorite among many sailors for good reason!) Newer models feature bright displays that work well in sunlight and have solid water resistance for your time on the water.
And if you're already part of the Apple ecosystem, it's a natural choice for many. The cellular models can connect you offshore and work seamlessly with your iPhone for weather updates and alerts.
Just keep in mind that you'll need to charge more frequently compared to other marine smartwatches. But for iPhone users or their gift-givers, it's still an excellent option when paired with the right boating apps!
Read Next: The Top Marine Navigation Apps
Chart Your Course: Choosing the Best Watch for Marine Navigation
It's incredible to see what the best marine smartwatches can do nowadays, right? After all, having the right gear makes time on the water even more enjoyable.
So, whether you're treating yourself or shopping for a fellow boater, any of these picks would make a fantastic gift! If you're still looking for more ideas, explore our other boating gift guides on the blog.
