Your upcoming boat may genuinely resemble your car, thanks to this significant navigation improvement.

      Businesswire

      If you've ever used a specialized marine GPS, you might have felt like you were transported back in time. The cumbersome menus, perplexing charts, and challenging route planning have long been part of the boating landscape. However, this is beginning to change.

      According to a report from BusinessWire, Crest and Balise, the two pontoon brands under MasterCraft Boat Holdings, have formed a partnership with the marine navigation app Savvy Navvy to deliver a more user-friendly experience at the helm. Starting with selected 2027 models, owners will be able to utilize Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to access Savvy Navvy directly from their boat's display. This integration means that instead of managing separate navigation devices or toggling between your phone and the dashboard, boaters can view maps, routes, and trip details from the same infotainment screen they already use.

      A dashboard that operates like your car's

      For many, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have become second nature in automobiles. Now, this familiar concept is making its way onto the water. Once a compatible phone is connected, Savvy Navvy can show nautical charts, GPS tracking, weather forecasts, tidal data, and smart route planning right on the boat's screen. Additionally, users can easily switch between day, night, and satellite map views as conditions change.

      One of the main advantages is that trip planning can commence before arriving at the marina. Routes created on your phone prior to departure will automatically show up once you connect at the helm, simplifying the process of getting underway without needing to redo the setup. This new system was showcased during Crest Marine's annual dealer meeting on Michigan’s Lake Lansing, where attendees could experience the integrated functionality on the water.

      New boats will offer more than navigation

      The rollout will start with the 2027 model year. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with Savvy Navvy support will be standard on all new Balise pontoons, as well as Crest’s Conquest and Caribbean models set to launch next month. There’s also an added perk for buyers; those purchasing eligible 2027 boats will receive Savvy Navvy Premium, granting access to the app’s full suite of navigation tools instead of just the standard version.

      Businesswire

      Savvy Navvy has evolved into one of the most popular marine navigation applications, boasting over three million downloads worldwide. While modern vehicles have benefited from refined infotainment systems for years, boats have largely been left behind. This partnership indicates that the gap is finally closing, making the experience at the helm feel more familiar and increasingly connected.

      Shimul is a contributor at Digital Trends, with over five years of experience in the tech space.

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