Best Marine GPS Units for Sale in South Africa
Marine GPS units for sale in South Africa, provide precise navigation tools for boat owners, anglers and offshore travellers who need reliable route tracking and safety support on coastal waters, inland dams and open sea.
Many people buy marine GPS units to improve confidence on the water, reduce navigational guesswork and access chart plotting, depth readings and waypoint management, all of which contribute to safer trips, better fishing outcomes and calmer decision making during changing weather conditions.
When reading a marine GPS units review or planning to purchase marine GPS units online, shoppers should look at screen visibility in sunlight, mapping coverage for local waters, ease of use, mounting options, power requirements and long-term software updates.
If you like our selection of marine GPS units, you might also like to learn more about our selection of GPS trackers or car GPSs available for sale online.
Read on for a review of the main features, pros and cons and answer some common questions about marine GPS units.
Our Picks of marine GPS units for Sale
- Garmin GPS 73 Handheld Marine GPS Navigator
- Icom M330G Marine Fixed Mount VHF Radio with GPS
- Garmin GPSMAP 86i Marine GPS Handheld With inReach Capabilities
- Garmin GPSMAP 79s Marine Handheld With Worldwide Basemap
- Ship GPS Active Marine Navigation Antenna 10M BNC Male Plug Connector
Garmin GPS 73 Handheld Marine GPS Navigator
Garmin GPS 73 Handheld Marine GPS Navigator is a compact handheld navigator that prioritises reliability over complexity for skippers who want clear positioning without a fixed chartplotter.
It sits comfortably in one hand, acquires satellites quickly and keeps core navigation tasks simple while storing routes, tracks and memorable locations for repeat trips.
Floating construction, physical buttons and a high contrast screen make it practical on small boats, tenders and sailing craft, as well as useful on land when coverage or power is limited. The inclusion of SailAssist tools adds value for sailors who care about timing, headings and tacking accuracy.
- High sensitivity GPS receiver for fast satellite acquisition.
- Stores up to 1,000 waypoints for repeat navigation.
- Records and saves 100 tracks for route reference.
- Floating casing prevents loss if dropped overboard.
- SailAssist includes heading line and tack assist tools.
- Virtual starting line supports sailing race timing.
- Countdown timer aids accurate race starts.
- Backlit physical buttons allow operation in low light.
- High contrast display remains readable in bright sun.
- NMEA 0183 compatibility enables data transfer via USB.
Should I Buy the Garmin GPS 73 Handheld Marine GPS Navigator?
Garmin GPS 73 Handheld Marine GPS Navigator suits sailors, small boat owners and paddlers who want dependable positioning, waypoint storage and sailing focused tools without installing a fixed chartplotter. It also works well as an emergency backup device on larger vessels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the unit floats, making recovery easier after accidental drops.
Yes, it works well as an emergency navigation backup on any vessel.
Yes, SailAssist provides heading line, tack assist and race timing tools.
- Pros
- Floats if dropped in water
- Quick satellite lock even in difficult locations
- Simple interface with physical buttons
- Useful SailAssist features for sailors
- Cons
- No built-in chart mapping
- Small screen limits data at a glance
Icom M330G Marine Fixed Mount VHF Radio with GPS
Icom M330G Marine Fixed Mount VHF Radio with GPS delivers core VHF communication and location reporting in a housing that suits smaller helm stations and crowded consoles. By integrating a dedicated GPS receiver and external antenna, the unit supports DSC distress and routine calls with accurate position data already in place.
- Built in GPS receiver supplied with external puck antenna.
- Supports DSC calling using live position data.
- Compact fixed mount housing fits tight installations.
- Dot matrix display remains clear in varied lighting.
- Soft keys provide quick access to common functions.
- AquaQuake draining removes water from the speaker.
- Class D DSC with dedicated Channel 70 receiver.
- NMEA interface supports external navigation connections.
- Dual and tri watch functions monitor priority channels.
- IPX7 waterproof rating protects against immersion.
Should I Buy the Icom M330G Marine Fixed Mount VHF Radio with GPS?
Icom M330G Marine Fixed Mount VHF Radio with GPS is well suited to skippers who want dependable VHF communication with integrated location reporting in a compact, space conscious unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, an external GPS puck antenna is supplied in the box.
Yes, it supports Class D DSC with automatic position inclusion.
Yes, it carries an IPX7 waterproof rating.
- Pros
- Integrated GPS improves DSC reliability
- Compact size suits small helm spaces
- Clear display and logical controls
- Strong waterproof and drainage protection
- Cons
- No touchscreen interface
- Fixed mount limits portability
Garmin GPSMAP 86i Marine GPS Handheld With inReach Capabilities
Garmin GPSMAP 86i Marine GPS Handheld With inReach Capabilities brings handheld navigation and satellite communication together for skippers who want confidence away from the helm. It combines marine focused tracking with global messaging, making it useful on deck, in a tender or as a backup when fixed systems are unavailable.
- Integrated inReach satellite messaging and SOS capability.
- Floats and remains usable after water exposure.
- Streams compatible boat data to the handheld display.
- Worldwide basemap with oceans, lakes and rivers shown.
- Optional BlueChart g3 charts expand coastal detail.
- Adjustable GPS filter smooths speed and heading data.
- Remote control support for compatible autopilot systems.
- ABC sensors provide compass, barometric and elevation data.
- Built in LED flashlight for signalling or close work.
- Rechargeable battery supports extended tracking modes.
Should I Buy the Garmin GPSMAP 86i Marine GPS Handheld?
Garmin GPSMAP 86i Marine GPS Handheld With inReach Capabilities is a strong fit for offshore sailors, cruisers and expedition focused boaters who want navigation, communication and emergency support in one handheld device. It also works well as a serious backup to fixed chartplotters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, satellite messaging and SOS functions require an active subscription.
Yes, the unit is buoyant and designed for marine use.
Yes, it is commonly used as a secondary navigation device.
- Pros
- Satellite communication adds offshore safety
- Floats and suits active deck use
- Strong integration with Garmin marine systems
- Long battery life for extended trips
- Cons
- Subscription required for inReach features
- Higher cost than basic handheld units
Garmin GPSMAP 79s Marine Handheld with Worldwide Basemap
Garmin GPSMAP 79s Marine Handheld with Worldwide Basemap is a straightforward handheld navigator that focuses on reliable positioning and generous memory rather than layered connectivity features. It suits skippers who want a clear screen, physical buttons and dependable tracking while moving between harbours, fishing spots or inland waterways.
- Worldwide basemap shows oceans, lakes and major rivers.
- Supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS and SBAS satellites.
- Stores up to 10,000 waypoints internally.
- Records 250 routes for repeat navigation.
- Saves up to 300 activity and track files.
- 3 axis electronic compass works while stationary.
- High resolution colour display remains readable in sunlight.
- IPX7 water resistance protects against immersion.
- Fogproof and scratch resistant screen glass.
- Uses replaceable AA batteries for extended trips.
Should I Buy the Garmin GPSMAP 79s Marine Handheld?
Garmin GPSMAP 79s Marine Handheld with Worldwide Basemap is a good fit for skippers who want reliable handheld navigation without subscriptions or system integration. It suits fishing boats, sailing craft and inland water users who value memory capacity, visibility and battery flexibility.
Buyers looking for onboard communication, live weather or interaction with marine electronics should consider more advanced handhelds with satellite or wireless features.
Frequently Asked Questions
It can store up to 10,000 waypoints.
Yes, it has a built in 3 axis electronic compass.
It uses replaceable AA batteries.
- Pros
- Large waypoint and route storage
- Floats and handles harsh marine conditions
- Multi constellation satellite accuracy
- Clear screen and physical controls
- Cons
- No satellite messaging capability
- AA batteries not included
Ship GPS Active Marine Navigation Antenna 10M BNC Male Plug Connector
Ship GPS Active Marine Navigation Antenna 10M BNC Male Plug Connector is a practical external antenna intended to improve GPS signal reception on marine vessels where built in antennas struggle. It focuses on steady signal gain, weather resistance and simple integration with compatible navigation equipment.
- Active GPS antenna with high gain signal reception.
- 10 metre cable allows flexible mounting positions.
- BNC male connector supports common marine equipment.
- Operates at 1575 MHz GPS centre frequency.
- Right hand circular polarisation improves satellite lock.
- Low noise figure supports clearer signal input.
- Weatherproof housing suits permanent outdoor installation.
- Screw thread mounting base supports secure fitting.
- Wide operating temperature range for marine use.
- Low power consumption supports continuous operation.
Should I Buy the Ship GPS Active Marine Navigation Antenna?
Ship GPS Active Marine Navigation Antenna 10M BNC Male Plug Connector is a good option for boat owners experiencing weak GPS reception due to mounting limitations or onboard interference. It suits vessels already equipped with GPS capable radios or chart systems that accept external antenna input.
Buyers looking for a complete navigation solution or wireless integration should look elsewhere, as this product functions strictly as a signal enhancement accessory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it includes a screw thread mounting connection.
It includes a 10-metre cable.
Yes, it can be used with compatible GPS enabled radios.
- Pros
- Improves GPS signal strength on vessels
- Long cable allows optimal antenna placement
- Weatherproof for marine environments
- Simple installation with standard connector
- Cons
- Requires compatible GPS input device
- Plastic housing feels basic
Conclusion
Buyers prioritising affordability and simplicity may lean toward the Garmin GPS 73 or Garmin GPSMAP 79s, both of which deliver reliable positioning and durability without subscription costs or system integration.
Those wanting added safety and efficiency on longer or offshore trips may prefer the Garmin GPSMAP 86i, which combines handheld navigation with satellite communication and onboard system connectivity.
Fixed installations focused on communication quality and safety will find strong value in the Icom M330G Marine Fixed Mount VHF Radio with GPS. The Ship GPS Active Marine Navigation Antenna suits users seeking a cost-effective way to improve signal quality rather than replacing existing equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do marine GPS units float if dropped in water?
Some marine GPS units float, but not all models include this feature.
Are marine GPS units suitable for small boats?
Yes, marine GPS units are often ideal for small boats and open craft.
Do marine GPS units require a subscription?
Most marine GPS units do not, unless they include satellite messaging.
Can marine GPS units be used on land as well?
Yes, marine GPS units usually work on land and water.
How accurate are marine GPS units?
Marine GPS units offer very accurate positioning in open conditions.
