Pre trip planning software

[Gvellia]

Just bought a 30’ Cutwater with a Garmin 8612 DSC chartplotter. What pre trip planning software would be recommended for my home computer. Thanks.

 

[srhawk454]

I have OpenCPN on my laptop coupled with external GPS receiver. I also use Navionics, both are free software. In addition to the laptop I use these on Android tablet with internal GPS chip. Both devices are with me and the Admiral on our extended trips alongside boat’s Simrad GO7. And don’t forget your paper charts.
https://webapp.navionics.com/#boating@6&key=svmbHvn~gV
http://opencpn.org/

 

[knotflying]

I believe with the Navionics app and charts you can do routes on your phone or ipad and then transfer them to your garmin via the wi-fi feature.

 

[Pilotnavigator]

That’s how I use my iPad with Navionics. Sit at home all winter and plan routes, look for anchorages with the satellite overlay, mark off distances. The auto route feature is very well done. On the boat it can be a back up tool or used to plan the next day without turning on the plotter. Even if you don’t have wifi on the boat, all the other features work well.
John

 

[srhawk454]

To offset the lack of wifi I have external GPS receiver connected to my Windows laptop with preloaded charts so it can be used in real time as a backup to main navigation. The speed of acquisition and accuracy is top notch plus you get to see everything on 15in screen 🙂

 

[Gvellia]

Thanks for the suggestions. Will check it out.