Marine electronics are becoming more amazing, user-friendly and extremely versatile with each passing season. It’s reached the point where the equipment we were using a scant 20 years ago seems like Stone Age tools by comparison.
No doubt, there’s a lot to unpack in this year’s roundup.
FURUNO
The scuttlebutt I got from the Furuno folks down at the Fort Lauderdale boat show this past fall was that they were going to introduce some interesting new gear at the upcoming Miami Boat show in mid-February. Since our editorial deadline for the 2026 Electronics Guide is in January, the timing didn’t work out and we couldn’t include the new product intel into this summary. What we do know is that Furuno recently released the DFF1UHD+, a powerful new fishfinder designed for seamless integration with the NavNet TZtouchXL series of Multi-Function Displays (MFDs). Combining CW, TruEcho CHIRP and CHIRP Side-Scan in a compact unit, the DFF1UHD+ delivers the next generation of fishfinder technology to both recreational and commercial fishermen.
Replacing the popular BBDS1 and DFF1-UHD, the new DFF1UHD+ is engineered to deliver enhanced versatility and performance. Capable of driving transducers from 300/600W up to 1kW, the fishfinder supports TruEcho CHIRP or CW (continuous wave) operation with a display range from 6 feet to 4,000 feet. Key features include ACCU-FISH, Bottom Discrimination (requires compatible CW transducer), A-Scope, improved Auto Gain, and TruEcho CHIRP processing for superior target separation and clarity. The addition of CHIRP Side-Scan provides anglers with a detailed view of structure and fish schools to both sides of the vessel. Available in 230kHz or 455kHz, depending on transducer selection, Side-Scan offers a range of up to 750 feet per side with eight color palettes and customizable screen layouts.
Designed with ease of installation and operation in mind, the DFF1UHD+ features color-coded connectors that match those found on NavNet TZtouchXL MFDs, waterproof connections and a compact housing. The unit is about half the size of the original DFF1-UHD, allowing it to fit neatly aboard any vessel. Additional highlights include simultaneous dual TX CHIRP, support for speed and temperature sensors, heave compensation when paired with a compatible Satellite Compass and a built-in demo mode for showroom or training use. The DFF1UHD+ also offers a solution for legacy products, with compatibility for TZtouch3, TZtouch2BB and MaxSea/TZ Professional planned through upcoming software updates. With its powerful performance, side-scan capability and seamless integration with NavNet TZtouchXL, the DFF1UHD+ sets offers boating anglers a new standard for fish finder versatility.
Yet another new Furuno product launched last July is TZ Maps, giving NavNet TZtouchXL users one of the most advanced and customizable charting platforms ever developed for recreational and professional mariners. Built from official hydrographic data, high-resolution bathymetry, satellite imagery and crowd-sourced surveys, TZ MAPS provides an unparalleled level of detail, control and real-time awareness on the water.
GARMIN
I spoke Carly Hysell from Garmin’s public relations department at the Fort Lauderdale show and she mentioned that Garmin has two new products for the 2026 season. One of these is the new Garmin OnBoard, a wireless MOB (man overboard) detection and engine cutoff system. Built so you can move freely and boat confidently, Garmin OnBoard uses wireless technology instead of the more traditional tethered cords. You can easily designate a captain to allow for emergency engine shutoff should they fall overboard.
The Garmin OnBoard system allows for up to eight MOB tags to be tracked at one time, giving you and the crew peace of mind while out on the water. Garmin chartplotter integration allows for automatic MOB waypoint recording at the time of MOB detection. Furthermore, the GOS 10 hub includes a loud external alarm for increased awareness. Tags can be worn on a wrist band, carabiner or key ring float and designated as either captain or passenger. If an MOB is detected, the system will save a waypoint on the chartplotter and audible alarms will sound. Should the captain fall overboard, the system will also automatically trigger an engine cutoff. Captains can also disable the engine via a button-press on the tag if needed.
With multiple MOB tags, mariners can tag what matters most – adults, children, pets and objects – all at the same time. The benefits of the Garmin OnBoard system include:
- Setup, pair and manage MOB tags from compatible Garmin ECHOMAP and GPSMAP chartplotters.
- Wireless MOB tags allow users to move freely around the boat without the need for a physical tether.
- Chartplotter integration provides automatic MOB waypoint recording at the time of MOB detection, along with audible alarms from the chartplotter.
- Easily disable tags temporarily to allow for hassle-free swimming and excursions.
- MOB tag battery life can exceed a single season of typical operation.
- Garmin OnBoard is compatible with any boat that has an engine cutoff switch and a compatible Garmin chartplotter.
- Complies with U.S. federal laws requiring the installation and use of an Engine Cutoff Link.
Garmin’s new GPSMAP 9000xsv is the integrated touchscreen chartplotter series available with a 10-inch, 13-inch or 17-inch display. These multi-functional displays boast Garmin’s cutting-edge integrated xCHIRP traditional sonar and UHD scanning sonar to help anglers see and catch more fish. Users can get 5Ghz Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless software and map updates at ultrafast speeds, seeing charts, maps and entertainment in vivid detail with up to 4K resolution. Each MFD can be flat- or flush-mounted to fit the boat’s helm.
RAYMARINE
Back in September, Raymarine and Suzuki Marine announced a new collaboration that brings enhanced engine instrumentation to Raymarine’s Axiom chartplotters. This strategic integration enables Suzuki outboard engine owners to upgrade their Raymarine Axiom displays with digital gauge interfaces, delivering real-time access to critical engine data directly from the helm. With the release of Raymarine’s LightHouse 4.10 operating system, Axiom users can now monitor a comprehensive suite of Suzuki engine parameters, including: speed over ground; RPMs; transmission gear; oil pressure; trim/tilt position; alternator voltage; fuel tank levels; rudder position and more. The integration also supports Suzuki’s Troll Mode status and provides essential warning indicators such as oil pressure alerts, engine coolant status, system faults, engine faults and water-in-fuel warnings.
Beyond engine diagnostics, the Suzuki app offers a robust trip data page featuring engine hours; trip distance; fuel used; average fuel economy; total propulsion fuel; fuel flow; and distance to go. This seamless integration ensures that Suzuki and Raymarine users can navigate with confidence, knowing that vital engine alerts and performance data are prominently displayed within the intuitive LightHouse OS interface. The Axiom Suzuki app supports up to four compatible Suzuki engines and is available with the release of Raymarine’s LightHouse 4.10 operating system for Axiom. The Axiom Suzuki app is compatible with all current 40HP and above Suzuki outboard engines using the Suzuki NMEA 2000 gateway (34923-96L13). It is also available to connect to other current and older models by using other devices and adapters. Contact Raymarine support for advice on pre-2016 models.
Raymarine also announced the recent release of the next generation of LightHouse Charts for Raymarine Axiom and Element multifunction displays. LightHouse Charts GEN 2 deliver faster chart redraw speeds, expanded and updated coverage and premium data updates. Offering users a more fluid and comfortable experience, LightHouse Charts GEN 2 lets boaters explore three times faster than first generation LightHouse Charts with exceptional redraw speeds. The new charts have been created and updated from official hydrographic chart sources, offering maximum readability, intuitive navigation and superior nautical chart quality. Four distinct color palettes provide the best possible viewing conditions around the clock, and chart symbol controls give users the power to customize the charts to the conditions or their preferences. Subscribing to LightHouse Charts Premium allows access to regular chart updates and enhanced satellite imagery overlays.
SI-TEX
SI-TEX will be introducing the new MDA-6 Class B+ AIS unit during the 2026 winter boat show circuit. The unit is a 5-watt SOTDMA AIS black box with NMEA2k, NMEA0183, USB, WI-FI and Bluetooth capabilities. The MDA-6 Class B+ AIS will also come with an App that will connect to the AIS unit via Bluetooth and will allow both owners and tech support personnel to program and troubleshoot the device using either iPhone or Android platforms. The app will also operate in a similar fashion to the Waze automotive app, by allowing the vessel operator to easily select and send out a variety of pre-programmed messages to all nearby AIS-equipped vessels. Messages like local weather info, potential navigation hazards and whale sightings can be broadcast with the simple touch of an icon on the screen using the app’s AIS messaging functions.
Introduced last season, The Koden Sirius 12 gyro-stabilized binoculars are compact and lightweight, yet ruggedly built binoculars are manufactured in Japan using premium quality lenses and internal electronic components. Their powerful 12X magnification and wide field of view are ideal for a variety of fishing and navigating tasks, including spotting other boats, dangerous obstacles, breaking fish, diving birds or oncoming commercial marine traffic. Advanced Japanese lenses minimize light transmission loss, ensuring a bright and clear field of view over a range of light and weather conditions at sea. At the heart of these binoculars is a precision built-in six-axis electronic gyro sensor that delivers rock-steady vision whether you’re scanning the offshore horizon for signs of fish, birds, or bait, glassing ahead of the boat to avoid whales on your way to the fishing grounds, or scouting out a tricky harbor entrance or crowded anchorage from a distance.
The Sirius 12 is built for serious sea duty with a list of standard features that includes an IPX7 waterproof rating; an easy-to-grip textured surface for sure handling with wet hands; an eyepiece and objective lenses with a water and oil-repellant coating to prevent lens contamination; easy-to-adjust eyepieces to accommodate different users; as well as a large focus adjustment wheel and On/Off switch that are easy to operate, even when wearing gloves. Sirius 12 Binoculars provide 12 hours of operation on a single AA alkaline battery, with an Automatic Power Off feature after 30 minutes to further extend battery life.
SIREN MARINE
Siren Marine, a Yamaha Marine company that’s a worldwide leader in Connected Boat technology, recently announced the addition of Siren 3 to its industry leading line of Connected Boat devices. Designed to complement small to mid-sized outboard powered boats, pontoons, deck boats and bass boats, Siren 3 brings Connected Boat technology to a new group of boaters.
“Siren set the standard for marine Internet of Things (IoT) devices with its flagship device, Siren 3 Pro. Now we’re expanding the Connected Boat experience to a high-volume segment of the market,” said Andrew Cullen, Director, Marine Connectivity, Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit explaining how boaters who prefer mid-sized boats now have access to a robust solution designed specifically for their needs. “With Siren 3, customers can monitor, track, control and maintain their boats through the Siren Connected Boat app – from anywhere and at any time. This is the most comprehensive IoT solution available at this price point in the marine industry,” Cullen added.
Siren 3 supports up to six Siren wireless sensors through SirenWAVE, a proprietary communication protocol that brings a fast, reliable and secure connection between the device itself and the sensors. It also features a new internal antenna design which reduces the amount of space needed for installation on smaller boats. Siren 3 can monitor one hard-wired battery and works with most vessel and power types. Siren 3 can connect to the NMEA 2000 network and the Yamaha CommandLink network through mechanical engines 300HP and down. Customers can access information about their installed Siren 3 device through the Siren Connected Boat mobile app, which combines real-time vessel security as well as multiple and flexible boat monitoring and tracking functions, giving customers the ability to control their boats from their phones or smart watches.
For 2026, Siren Marine is focused on deeper integration with Yamaha, introducing cloud-based HVAC control via Dometic, making their Siren 3 Pro standard with Yamaha Helm Master EX, enhancing the Siren Connected Boat App with more features like low-power modes and smartwatch compatibility, and expanding wireless sensor capabilities, all aimed at providing comprehensive, remote boat management and security through their integrated platform. Siren 3 can be installed by boat owners, boat builders or onsite at Yamaha marine dealerships nationwide. Siren 3 MSRP is $299.
ICOM
ICOM America recently introduced a new fixed mount Marine VHF radio, the IC-M430E. This new model features a sleek design and slimmer body profile compared to former ICOM VHFs, along with a first-in-class color TFT display with multiple viewing modes for optimal visibility in any condition. It includes built-in GPS (GNSS) and supports both NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183-HS connectivity for seamless integration with other marine equipment. It also functions as a hailer and foghorn, all within a sleek and compact design with an easy-to-use interface.
Some of the notable standard features of the IC-M430E model VHF include:
- A 2.4-inch color TFT LCD with a wide viewing angle and three selectable screen operation modes (day, dark, night).
- 25W RF output power.
- Built-in NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183-HS connectivity.
- Front and rear connections for the hand microphone, with an optional HM-195 CommandMic available.
- USB Type-C port for data output.
- A built-in GPS (GNSS) receiver and antenna included.
- Built-in Class D DSC (Digital Selective Calling).
- PA (Public Address) and Foghorn functions.
- An AquaQuake water draining function.
- IPX7 submersible waterproof protection (1m depth for 30 minutes).
HUMMINBIRD
For 2026, Humminbird’s big news is the MEGA Live 2 forward-facing sonar with enhanced clarity and bait tracking, plus the new XPLORE Series of user-friendly fishfinders featuring lightning-fast interfaces and better maps, available in integrated packages with Minn Kota on a variety of boats, while phasing out some larger HELIX and SOLIX units for newer tech.
Introduced last season, Humminbird’s XPLORE platform combines the proven features of HELIX with advanced technology like Cross Touch control, improved waypoint management, high definition Lakemaster and Coastmaster mapping and a redesigned interface for unmatched ease of use. With a powerful quad-core processor, fast start-up capabilities and customizable side buttons, XPLORE ensures anglers spend less time navigating their device and more time catching fish. Featuring an intuitive touchscreen with full keypad, XPLORE allows anglers to quickly access critical features like Spot-Lock, mapping, and waypoint management. XPLORE Series MFDs will be offered in 9-inch, 10-inch and 12-inch screens.
With its easy-to-use interface, XPLORE eliminates the complexity of traditional fish finders. Featuring intuitive shortcut buttons, anglers can quickly access key features like navigation, Spot-Lock and advanced mapping tools with just a click. Its fast startup, reset and update capabilities, powered by a quad-core processor, ensure that it adapts to changing conditions with minimal delays. Integration with the One-Boat Network (OBN) means anglers can easily sync with Minn Kota trolling motors and anchors, offering smooth control from the console, remote app, or foot pedal. The design ensures effortless handling, whether navigating the boat or accessing features like follow, dodge and drift modes. Updates are simple with XPLORE, with software pushed automatically through the OBN app, ensuring anglers always have the latest tools at their fingertips. The customizable OBN side buttons allow presets to the features anglers rely on most. The streamlined waypoint management system allows anglers to sync up to 10,000 waypoints between devices, with customizable icons and color-coding for easy organization and quick access.
Paired with the Cross Touch interface, offering both touchscreen navigation and keypad control, XPLORE delivers a versatile, seamless user experience for smooth operation in any condition. The HD display that offers bright and clear screens in all conditions, delivering unmatched visibility for fish, structure and underwater detail. It’s compatible with MEGA Live Imaging, MEGA 360 Imaging and MEGA Side and Down Imaging and existing Humminbird transducers.
LOWRANCE
Lowrance recently introduced ActiveTarget 2 XL, the brand’s most advanced live sonar system to date. Featuring surface-to-surface 180-degree views, this technology delivers unmatched clarity and coverage, giving anglers a complete picture of what’s happening beneath the water in real time.
“At Lowrance, we’re committed to elevating the fishing experience through innovation, and ActiveTarget 2 XL is a perfect example of that dedication,” said Yasser Nafei, President of Electronic Solutions for Navico Group, adding “With the sharpest, most comprehensive live sonar on the market, anglers gain expanded views, intuitive control, and by adding two systems together, the ability to unlock the industry’s first 360-degree live Scout view.” According to Nafei, this breakthrough technology is a powerful addition to their Ultimate Fishing System, helping anglers spend less time adjusting their transducers and more time catching.
Building on the award-winning ActiveTarget 2 platform, the new XL transducer sets a new standard for live sonar performance. With ultra-clear resolution and a sweeping 180-degree field of vision, spanning forward, down and scout modes from a single transducer, ActiveTarget 2 XL ensures no fish or bait goes unseen. The full-screen display captures every detail, from the moment the lure drops to the strike itself, offering anglers unparalleled situational awareness and precision. Switching views is now easier than ever. The redesigned XL transducer allows anglers to instantly toggle between Forward XL and Down XL views directly from the display, no manual adjustments required. The new bracket, compatible with both shaft and motor mounts, enables seamless transitions into Scout Mode. Once activated, built-in reference markers guide anglers to the optimal angle for both deep and shallow water, ensuring pinpoint accuracy with every cast.
ActiveTarget 2 XL is a one-time upgrade that unlocks all sonar views from a single transducer, no additional gear needed. Anglers can simply mount the XL transducer and start fishing, using their existing ActiveTarget 2 sonar module to minimize setup and maximize time on the water. For those seeking total situational awareness, combining two XL systems introduces an industry-first: 360-degree Scout XL live view around the entire boat. This revolutionary capability allows anglers to identify the perfect casting spot without repositioning. Running multiple transducers also enables simultaneous viewing of Forward XL/Down XL and Scout XL views, eliminating the need to lift the trolling motor.
SIMRAD
Word on the street has it that Simrad is introducing something new at the upcoming Miami Boat show in mid-February, but they are remaining mum for now. Back in November, Simrad announced that it had expanded the compatibility of its innovative AutoTrack feature across the full range of Simrad recreational HALO radars (excluding HALO 20) with that list of compatible MFDs expanding to include select Lowrance and B&G radar systems. Originally launched for the HALO 2000 and HALO 3000 open array radars, AutoTrack is now fully supported on Simrad HALO 20+ and HALO 24 Dome Radars, plus Lowrance and B&G branded HALO 20+ and HALO 24 Dome Radars.
“AutoTrack has redefined what boaters can expect from radar technology,” said Yasser Nafei, President of Electronic Solutions at Navico Group, while adding “With this expanded compatibility, we’re bringing the power of intelligent, automated target tracking to an even broader range of vessels and users.” Said Nafei, “AutoTrack delivers critical information in real time, without overwhelming the user, and that’s a major step forward in our mission to simplify and elevate the boating experience for everyone.”
AutoTrack automatically detects, tracks, and prioritizes moving targets, overlaying them on the radar display with intuitive visual cues and trajectory lines. Even when the radar screen is not actively in use, a dynamic widget highlights only the most critical, intelligently prioritized alerts – keeping captains informed without distraction. With the ability to track up to 50 targets simultaneously at ranges up to 24 nautical miles, AutoTrack provides comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.
This feature is enabled by default with the latest software update and can easily be turned on or off in radar settings. Designed to feel like a natural part of the multifunction display interface, AutoTrack works seamlessly with Simrad, Lowrance and B&G multifunction displays.
FLIR
FLIR, a global leader in high-performance marine thermal-imaging systems, recently announced the next generation of marine thermal monocular – the FLIR Ocean Scout Pro. Designed for public safety professionals and to provide enhanced situational awareness for professional and recreational mariners, the Ocean Scout Pro is intuitive and easy to use and available at a price point that makes it an accessible and beneficial addition to any mariner’s safety equipment kit. Designed around an advanced 640 x 480 thermal detector, the Ocean Scout Pro’s intuitive design provides an extended 500-meter detection range and a 32-degree field of view lens.
The streamlined user interface ensures live-image visibility and continuous focus on observed targets, persons or scenes without obstruction and the confusion of menus and settings. Equipped with two different eyecups included for optimal fit and light-pollution prevention, it features a one-touch button control for zoom, mode, brightness and standby and the accompanying wireless app for gallery, image and video management allows for simple wireless file transfer.
Rugged and reliable by design, the Ocean Scout Pro can handle even the most extreme conditions, with a 2-meter drop and IP67 waterproof rating and it is backed by an industry-leading five-year warranty. The battery will last for six hours of use on a single charge and includes USB Type-C connector and powerbank charging options. The sleek and clean exterior makes the Ocean Scout Pro pocket-friendly. It is delivered in a compact and versatile pouch with a diagonal zipper and the seam on the front makes it easy to take the Ocean Scout Pro in and out with one hand. The carrying case also has a standardized Molle lightweight and modular carrying system.
The Ocean Scout Pro offers four video color palettes for optimal viewing in changing conditions, specifically:
- White hot palette displays warmer objects in white and cooler objects in black.
- The opposite Black hot palette offers a more lifelike image with hotter objects like buoys and human body heat shown in black.
- The Sepia pallet applies a warm, golden hue for reduced eye and mental fatigue during long viewing periods.
- The Heat palette is used for quickly detecting body heat. It highlights the warmest 10% of a scene in a mix of vibrant oranges and yellows. The heat palette is best suited for locating people and pets in the water.
STANDARD HORIZON
For 2026, Standard Horizon has introduced the new Eclipse Series GX1410G, 25W Fixed Mount VHF/GPS. The GX1410 is also new, but does not feature an internal GPS receiver, so any position info must come from an external source. The GX1410 Eclipse Series replace the older Eclipse+ and Eclipse DSC units. Both newbies are an ITU-R M493-16 Class D class VHF with a separate Channel 70 receiver, which allows DSC calls to be received even when listening to other communications. When activated, the DSC DISTRESS function transmits a digital MAYDAY including vessel identification, Latitude/Longitude and time, to facilitate prompt response. Additional calls that can be made are Individual, Urgency, Safety, Position Report and Send.
The high resolution dot matrix display on the new GX1410G/GX1410 VHFs makes navigating the radio’s many features smooth and easy. The adjustable ultra-bright backlight makes daytime and nighttime viewing a breeze. Keeping the everyday boat operator in mind, the easy to operate menu system is more intuitive than ever. Users can access all the menu functions and settings with just a few simple steps. DSC calling and DSC programming have never been easier. The GX1410G makes DSC easy. With an internal 66 Channel WAAS GPS built into the front panel, there is no need to hassle with wiring the radio to a separate GPS unit to enable the DSC function. Out of the box and ready to go, DSC calling and position sharing can both be performed with just a few simple steps.
Some of the new GX1410G’s impressive features list includes:
- Built-in 66 channel WAAS GPS receiver
- Radio controls on the microphone
- E2O easy to operate icon/menu system
- Oversized full dot matrix display (31 mm x 55 mm)
- Built in separate receiver for CH70 (receiving DSC calls)
- DSC test call and Auto DSC channel change selection
- GPS position and time shown on a full-dot matrix display
- NMEA in and output connections to a compatible GPS chartplotter
- Programmable soft keys
- Automatically poll the GPS position of up to six ships using DSC
- Submersible IPX8 waterproof rating (1.5M for 30 minutes)
- All USA/International and Canadian marine channels
- Preset key used to recall up to 10 favorite channels
- NOAA weather channel selection with Weather Alert
- Programmable Scan, Priority Scan and Dual Watch
- 3-year warranty (country of origin Japan)
SIRIUSXM
SiriusXM Marine delivers weather and fishing services, providing the tools boaters and anglers need to help make safer and more productive trips on the water. SiriusXM is delivered via satellite, providing coverage over 150 nautical miles offshore, which is well beyond the reach of cellular networks. SiriusXM Marine Weather provides up-to-date information including NEXRAD radar, lightning strikes, wind forecasts, wave heights and more, helping you plan and adjust your trip with confidence. The weather services work on compatible Garmin, Simrad, Lowrance, B&G, Raymarine, and Furuno systems with the corresponding SiriusXM weather receiver.
For 2026, SiriusXM Marine’s latest updates focus heavily on its Fish Mapping App, adding onshore planning tools like custom routing, measuring, ocean currents and detailed bathymetry (relief shading, 25′ contours, wrecks/reefs) for phones/tablets, complementing onboard chartplotter integration. New features for displays include animated weather (storms, lightning), wind/wave data, pressure, and stronger integration with brands like Simrad for easier access to these layers.
Designed specifically for saltwater anglers, Fish Mapping offers eight science-based features to help locate fish faster and save fuel. These include Fishing Recommendations for popular species, Sea Surface Temperature Fronts, Plankton Fronts and Contours, Weed Lines, Sub-Surface Water Temperatures and Sea Surface Height Anomalies. Together, these tools help anglers zero in on the areas where bait fish and game fish are most likely to gather. The Fish Mapping service works on compatible Garmin, Simrad, Raymarine, and Furuno systems with the corresponding receiver.
As a Fish Mapping subscriber, users also get free access to the Fish Mapping App, which is a valuable planning tool to help you make decisions about where to fish when you’re onshore. With SiriusXM, you can get ad-free music, plus sports, news and various entertainment channels to enjoy while on the water.
SIONYX
The latest from Sionyx, a leader in digital color night vision technology, is their Nightwave night vision camera. Nightwave is built around their proprietary Black Silicon BSI CMOS sensor. Nightwave is a total game changer in low-light conditions, allowing mariners to safely navigate with a greater degree of confidence by easily spotting hazards and debris in moonless starlight without any additional illumination. Employing a Nightwave camera maximizes your time out on the water, translating to safer transit at dawn, dusk, or even in the middle of the night.
Built to operate in the toughest marine environments, the night vision camera is IP67 waterproof and shock rated. Nightwave seamlessly integrates to any vessel’s electronics by connecting to most major brand multi-function color displays (MFDs) via the analog video output. With flexible mounting and setup, Nightwave can also connect to a mobile device via Wi-Fi for an enhanced user experience. The main different between Nightwave and some high-end thermal competitive models is that the Sionyx product amplifies available light in a high-res digital format, whereas thermal units use heat signatures to construct the target, usually via a lower-res image. Nightwave’s technology provides clear color images in near-total darkness and is simple to install and operate.
Notable standard features on the Sionyx Nightwave include 1 mlx moonless starlight sensitivity that allows mariners to see well beyond human eyesight and detect a man-sized object at 150 yards; a high resolution detector that provides upgraded quality imaging capability in near total darkness; a wide 44-degree field of view that greatly enhances situational awareness to spot unexpected obstacles, debris, markers, vessels, unlighted navigation buoys and more; convenient installation flexibility, with permanent mounting hardware that is included, as well as a standard quarter inch, 20 mount interface; ball-up or ball-down installation flexibility to meet any challenging mounting requirements; a small-profile housing and relatively light net weight of approximately 2 pounds; plus access to the latest firmware and software releases are conveniently available through the Sionyx mobile app.
With an MSRP under $2,000, Nightwave will help you identify a variety of things that go bump in the night, thereby making your early morning and late evening fishing trips significantly safer. Built rugged, with easy connectivity, Nightwave is a must-have addition for any boat that travels to/from the blue water in the dark or stays over in the deep for the night.
SKYHAWK OVERSEA
For 2026, Skyhawk Oversea continues to focus on its innovative, self-powered, wireless boat monitoring system, emphasizing its breakthrough low-power technology that offers years of battery life and real-time alerts for water intrusion, battery levels, and motion, making it ideal for marinas and individual boat owners seeking comprehensive, easy-to-install vessel protection without draining boat batteries. Boat monitoring systems have been around for a few years, but typically have been expensive, complicated to wire and required power from your boat’s batteries to operate. The folks from Skyhawk recently introduced their Oversea Boat Monitoring System that is somewhat affordable, portable, unwired and uses IoT (Internet of Things) technology to communicate critical data about your vessel 24/7 no matter where you roam.
There are myriad reasons to keep an eye on your boat at the marina. One of these is to avoid unexpected problems like water in the bilge or a dead battery. With boat theft on the rise, the Skyhawk Oversea monitoring system gives you more tools to fight back to keep your boat, electronics, motors and other gear safe. You’ll know if your boat is moving unexpectedly, or if there’s an unexpected guest in your cabin.
The Oversea Hub is the nerve center of the Oversea Boat Monitoring System. Powered by AA batteries, with no need to wire it to your boat battery for power, it is easy and simple to install. The Hub offers two modes: as a standalone on-demand location device or as a location + gateway combination, where it serves as a forwarding device for local Oversea sensor signals. The replaceable internal batteries will last 1 to 2 years as a location-on-demand and gateway. The Oversea Hub provides you with year-round monitoring so your boats and the property on them stay safe, secure and ready to go at any time. The Hub acts as a central point for collecting data from all sensors and transmitting it to the user. The Hub also functions as a location tracker, using cellular connectivity to determine the boat’s position even when GPS signals are unavailable.
The Hub utilizes a cellular network (e.g., Verizon’s IoT platform) to relay alerts and sensor data to the user’s smartphone app. The Hub immediately relays alerts triggered by sensors (e.g., high water in the bilge, unauthorized entry) to the user’s app and can also send batched data (e.g., temperature and humidity trends). The Oversea smart phone app provides a user-friendly interface to view real-time data from the sensors, track the boat’s location and receive alerts. Users can customize alert thresholds and preferences within the app to suit their individual needs.
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SOLID STATE BATTERY
The folks at Massachusetts-based Solid State Marine have introduced the next-gen version of the marine LiFePO4 battery in the form of their breakthrough solid state designs. What sets Solid State Marine technology apart from traditional or lithium-ion (LiFePO4) batteries is their innovative solid electrolyte design. Unlike conventional batteries that use a liquid electrolyte to conduct lithium ions between the cathode and anode, using a solid electrolyte significantly reduces the distance between these components. This breakthrough minimizes the size and weight of the battery, offering unparalleled energy density and faster recharging times.
Solid State Marine’s solid-state batteries are engineered to deliver superior performance and reliability, making them the ideal choice for marine applications. They are manufactured using high-tech medical industry automated manufacturing equipment to enhance electrical welds, consistency and uniformity from battery to battery. With enhanced safety features and a longer lifespan, Solid State Marine batteries ensure that you can navigate with confidence and efficiency, no matter how long your day out on the water will be pursuing your favorite catch.
Solid State Marine lithium batteries have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they can withstand extreme conditions. They have proven to be resilient against extreme heat, severe deformation and punctures. They are also rated to IP-67 waterproof standards. This robust design enhances safety aboard and minimizes the risk of overheating and fire. Solid state batteries are non-combustible which makes them much safer than traditional lithium or AGM batteries. Solid State offers total peace of mind. Solid State Marine batteries are roughly half the weight of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries and up to 1/4 the weight of AGM lead acid batteries, offering an industry-leading energy density (a.k.a. power output per pound).
Solid State Marine batteries run up to eight times longer than the leading lead acid battery types like AGM and Gel thanks to their solid state lithium based design. They can also run longer than first generation LiFePO4 batteries. Solid State Marine batteries are safe to charge and operate down to -4 degrees F. Not all lithium based batteries will work or charge under extreme conditions like these. Solid State Marine offers a wide array of solid state lithium batteries in 12V, 24V, 36V and 48V formats. Their weights and power capacities will vary with Group size and many offer both a deep cycle and a starting “dual purpose” format.
Due to the unique nominal voltage and charging profiles of these next-gen marine batteries, Solid State Marine suggests that you get a charger (which they offer ranging from $275 to $375) that is compatible with the unique electrical chemistry of their solid state batteries.
