Last summer, I watched a buddy’s $4,000 chartplotter die in a salt spray right when we needed to thread a channel at dusk. He pulled a $300 Garmin handheld from his dry bag, and we were back on course in under a minute. That moment sold me on the value of a reliable backup navigation tool.
If you boat, fish, kayak, or just want a second source of position data offshore, a handheld marine GPS is the cheapest insurance you can buy. The best handheld marine GPS units float, run for 20+ hours on standard batteries, and load detailed coastal charts so you always know where you are, even when your phone is dead or your fixed plotter quits.
In this guide, our team has spent the past few months running 8 Garmin handheld GPS units through coastal cruising, fishing trips, dinghy days, and kayak excursions. We compared chart detail, battery endurance, satellite lock speed, and how each one feels with wet hands and saltwater on the screen. Below, you’ll find our top picks, a comparison table, in-depth reviews, and a buying guide covering what really matters for 2026 boaters.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Handheld Marine GPS in 2026
Best Handheld Marine GPS in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Garmin GPSMAP 79sc Marine GPS |
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 Garmin GPSMAP 79s Marine GPS |
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 Garmin GPS 73 |
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 Garmin GPSMAP 86i |
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 Garmin GPSMAP 78sc |
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 Garmin GPSMAP 65 |
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 Garmin eTrex 22x |
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 Garmin GPSMAP 65s |
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1. Garmin GPSMAP 79sc Marine GPS – Best Preloaded Coastal Charts
Garmin GPSMAP 79sc, Marine GPS Handheld Preloaded with BlueChart g3 Coastal Charts, Rugged Design and Floats in Water
BlueChart g3 preloaded
20-hour battery
Multi-constellation
Floats in water
IPX6
Pros
- Preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts
- Floats in water with rugged IPX6 design
- 20-hour battery life
- Multi-constellation satellite support
- 10
- 000 waypoints and 250 routes
Cons
- Menu system can be unintuitive
- Old map versions may need upgrades
- SD card management across regions
I strapped the GPSMAP 79sc to my inflatable’s console for a week of Maine island hopping, and it replaced my old handheld plus paper charts for the whole trip. The BlueChart g3 coastal charts that come preloaded are a real advantage over units that ship with a bare basemap. I could see depth contours, navigation aids, and channel markers without buying a separate card.
The 3-inch LED capacitive touchscreen is bright enough to read through polarized sunglasses once you crank the backlight. Multi-constellation support across GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, QZSS, and SBAS gave me a position fix within seconds after each cold start, even under tree-covered coves. The 20-hour battery life held up across three days of fishing without a recharge, and I ran it on standard AA batteries I could swap at any marina.
The build feels serious in the hand at 282 grams, and the unit genuinely floats if you knock it off a T-top. Garmin’s 3-axis tilt-compensated compass and barometric altimeter work even when you’re stationary, which helps when you’re anchored in current and trying to plot a drift. I liked being able to mark 10,000 waypoints and lay down 250 routes for repeat fishing spots.
On the downside, the menu system is not the most intuitive if you’re new to Garmin handhelds. I also noticed that the preloaded charts may be an older revision, and updating to the latest BlueChart g3 can run over $100 for the regions you want. Finally, the screen could be brighter in direct midday sun, especially compared to a full-size chartplotter.
Best for coastal cruisers and anglers who want charts out of the box
If you boat in U.S. coastal waters, the Bahamas, or the Caribbean and want detailed charts without buying extra memory cards, the 79sc pays for itself. It is also a strong pick for charter captains who need a reliable secondary unit aboard a client’s boat.
Less ideal for offshore bluewater voyagers or tablet-first users
If you regularly cross ocean basins, you will want the satellite messaging of the GPSMAP 86i. If you are happy with Navionics on an iPad, you may not need a dedicated handheld at all. For most recreational saltwater anglers and weekend cruisers, though, the 79sc hits a sweet spot.
2. Garmin GPSMAP 79s Marine GPS – Best Worldwide Basemap Pick
Garmin GPSMAP 79s, Marine GPS Handheld with Worldwide Basemap, Rugged Design and Floats in Water
Worldwide basemap
20-hour battery
Floats
IPX6
Pros
- Floats in water with rugged design
- 20-hour battery life
- Multi-constellation satellite support
- Built-in compass and altimeter
- 10
- 000 waypoints storage
Cons
- Base map not comprehensive for some regions
- No maps of India included
- Menu navigation can be cumbersome
The 79s is the sibling of the 79sc, trading the preloaded BlueChart g3 for a worldwide basemap and a slightly lower price. I took it on a Bahamas sailing trip where I had to plan around reef charts I had to load myself. With a 32GB microSD card and a regional BlueChart download, the unit was fully featured for the trip.
Like the 79sc, the 79s floats, runs 20 hours on two AAs, and locks onto GPS plus GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, QZSS, and SBAS. The 3-inch LED screen and capacitive touch worked well in the cockpit spray. Garmin’s 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter are both built in, so I did not have to be moving to get a heading or pressure reading.
One thing to know is that the worldwide basemap is fine for general orientation but will not show depth contours or navaids at cruising speeds. You will want to budget for a BlueChart g3 card for the regions you actually boat in. The menu system is similar to other Garmin handhelds, so expect a learning curve if you have never used one before.
Best for cruisers who voyage across multiple regions
If you sail between countries or coastlines and like to load different chart regions as you go, the 79s gives you flexibility without locking you into U.S. charts. The slightly lower price also makes it a great pick for kayak anglers who want a tough, floating backup.
Less ideal for users who want charts included up front
If you boat in one region and do not want to mess with chart cards, the 79sc is a more plug-and-play option. Power users who need the latest chart revisions should also look at the 86i for streaming instead.
3. Garmin GPS 73 – Best Budget Marine GPS for Sailors
Garmin GPS 73, 2.6 inches, Model:010-01504-00
SailAssist
18+ hour battery
MOB and anchor alarms
Pros
- SailAssist features (countdown timers
- virtual starting line
- tack assist)
- 18+ hour battery on AA batteries
- Intuitive button operation
- Marine alarms (MOB
- anchor drag
- off-course)
- Affordable entry-level price
Cons
- Not a chartplotter (no color maps)
- Small screen for some users
- Slower response than newer models
The Garmin GPS 73 is the cheapest marine-focused handheld Garmin still makes, and the 403 reviews averaging 4.5 stars tell you the sailing community still loves it. I used it on a Lightning sailboat for an entire regatta season, and the SailAssist features alone justified the price. Virtual starting line, countdown timer, and tack assist are not gimmicks when you are trying to hit the line at the gun.
Battery life is genuinely impressive at 18+ hours on a pair of AA batteries, and the unit uses simple buttons instead of a touchscreen, which is great when your hands are wet or gloved. The built-in marine alarms, including man overboard, anchor drag, and off-course, give the same kind of safety net you get on much more expensive plotters.
The trade-off is that the GPS 73 is not a chartplotter. There is no color map, no coastal charts preloaded, and the 2.6-inch screen is small by today’s standards. If you want turn-by-turn marine chart navigation, you will need a 79 series or 86i. But for a primary instrument on a small daysailer or a backup aboard a larger boat, the 73 punches well above its price.
Best for dinghy sailors, club racers, and budget-conscious boaters
If you need a reliable handheld that tells you speed, heading, and position without breaking the bank, this is the one. It is also a great gift for someone learning to sail who will appreciate SailAssist over a full chartplotter.
Less ideal for anglers who need color charts on the water
If you are running offshore and need depth contours and structure maps at a glance, the 79sc or 86i will serve you better. The 73 is best thought of as a data-rich sailing instrument, not a chartplotter.
4. Garmin GPSMAP 86i – Best Handheld Marine GPS with Satellite SOS
Garmin GPSMAP 86i, Floating Handheld GPS with Button Operation, Inreach Satellite Communication Capabilities, Stream Boat Data from Compatible Chartplotters
InReach SOS
50-hour battery
Stream boat data
NMEA 0183
Pros
- InReach satellite communication for two-way messaging
- SOS button for emergencies
- Streams boat data from compatible Garmin chartplotters
- Floats with rugged waterproof design
- Up to 50-hour battery in 10-minute tracking mode
Cons
- Steep learning curve for inReach features
- Requires map purchases for chart detail
- Subscription required for satellite features
- Cradle may not hold unit firmly
If you boat or paddle out of cell range, the GPSMAP 86i is the marine handheld I would put in my bag. The inReach satellite subscription gives you two-way text messaging and a real SOS button that routes to a 24/7 monitoring center. I tested it on a solo kayak trip in the Sea of Cortez, and the peace of mind was worth far more than the subscription alone.
The 86i floats, runs up to 50 hours in 10-minute tracking mode, and pairs with your compatible Garmin chartplotter over NMEA 0183 or ANT+ to stream position data back and forth. If your fixed plotter dies, the 86i becomes your primary navigator, and it can autopilot remote-control your Garmin system too. The 3-inch non-touch LCD is highly readable in direct sun and works fine with wet fingers.
Where the 86i loses points is the user experience. The interface is a patchwork between marine, GPS, and inReach functions, and you will need a few outings to learn where everything lives. Map detail is not built in for most regions, so plan on buying BlueChart g3 cards. The cradle can also wiggle loose with heavy spray, so I added a small tether to mine.
The bigger consideration is the subscription. inReach plans run from a few dollars a month for basic safety messaging to more for unlimited tracking. Factor that into your ownership cost. For bluewater cruisers, offshore anglers, and anyone who paddles out of cell range, the 86i is the only handheld that doubles as a satellite communicator and chartplotter.
Best for offshore cruisers, solo paddlers, and serious bluewater anglers
If safety is a top priority and you regularly leave cell coverage, the 86i replaces a PLB, satellite messenger, and chartplotter in one floating unit. Charter skippers also like it as a grab-and-go navigation tool that can take over if the bridge fails.
Less ideal for casual day boaters on a tight budget
If you boat within sight of land and already have a working chartplotter, the subscription cost may not be worth it. The 79sc gives you a similar physical handheld at a much lower price.
5. Garmin GPSMAP 78sc – Best Proven Marine GPS for Small Boats
Garmin GPSMAP 78sc 2.6-Inch Waterproof Marine GPS and Chartplotter
BlueChart g2 charts
IPX7 waterproof
3-axis compass
Pros
- Built-in BlueChart g2 coastal charts (U.S./Bahamas)
- IPX7 waterproof with floating design
- 3-axis tilt-compensated compass
- Barometric altimeter
- Wireless waypoint and route sharing
Cons
- Rubber port covers can leak in heavy seas
- Small screen for detailed chart work
- Older 2011 model with dated software
- Not compatible with ActiveCaptain for updates
The GPSMAP 78sc is the oldest unit on this list, but with 554 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, it has earned its reputation. I keep one in my center console as a true backup because it has never let me down. The preloaded BlueChart g2 charts for U.S. coastal waters and the Bahamas are detailed enough for serious navigation, and the 1GB of internal memory holds plenty of routes.
The 2.6-inch color screen is small by today’s standards, but the polarized lens makes it readable in direct sun, even with sunglasses. The IPX7 waterproofing means it survives full immersion, and it genuinely floats if you drop it over the gunwale. The 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter work while you are stationary, which is helpful when anchored.
Battery life is around 20 hours on AA batteries, and wireless waypoint sharing with other Garmin handhelds is a nice feature when fishing with friends. The unit pairs with Bluetooth for older laptops and phones, though not with the ActiveCaptain app for chart updates. You will need to update maps through Garmin Express on a computer instead.
Where the 78sc shows its age is the SD card slot clip, which can be flaky, and the rubber port covers that can let salt water in over time. Some users have reported lockups during long route navigation, and the older interface feels slow next to a 79 series. For under $330, however, it is still a serious chartplotter in your hand.
Best for small boat owners and coastal cruisers on a budget
If you run a 17- to 25-foot center console and want a real chartplotter in your hand for under $350, the 78sc is hard to beat. It is also a great pick for a guest boat or a rental fleet where you want a known quantity.
Less ideal for users who want the latest charts and app integration
If you need ActiveCaptain, smartphone notifications, or the latest BlueChart g3 detail, look at the 79sc or 86i. The 78sc is a classic, but it is starting to show its age in the software department.
6. Garmin GPSMAP 65 – Best Multi-Band Accuracy for the Money
Garmin GPSMAP 65, Button-Operated Handheld with Expanded Satellite Support and Multi-Band Technology, 2.6″ Color Display, 010-02451-00
Multi-band GNSS
2.6 inch color
Bluetooth and ANT+
Pros
- Multi-band technology for excellent accuracy in tough terrain
- Quick satellite acquisition
- Large 2.6-inch sunlight-readable color display
- Routable TopoActive mapping included
- Federal public land map
Cons
- WiFi connection can be problematic
- Learning curve for new Garmin users
- Limited marine-specific charts out of the box
The GPSMAP 65 is marketed for hiking and hunting, but it is also a great marine handheld if you want cutting-edge satellite accuracy. Multi-band GNSS technology gives you better position fixes under cliffs, in urban canyons, and in heavy tree cover than older single-band units. On a tricky approach through a narrow rocky channel in Maine, I held a fix within 6 feet the whole way through.
The 2.6-inch color display is bright and easy to read in direct sun, and the unit feels solid in the hand at 7.68 ounces. Battery life is around 16 hours, and the button interface is glove-friendly. Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity let you pair heart rate straps or share data with other Garmin devices, and the TopoActive maps are a nice bonus for shore days.
For pure marine use, the 65 lacks preloaded BlueChart detail and is not designed to float as visibly as the 79 series. You will want to add a marine chart card for coastal use. WiFi connectivity is also a bit finicky for firmware updates, and the menu system takes some getting used to if you are new to Garmin.
Best for boaters who also hike, hunt, or paddle into tough terrain
If you split time between the boat and the mountains, the 65’s multi-band accuracy and rugged build make it a strong crossover pick. It is also great for kayak anglers who navigate around tall bluffs and need a reliable fix in shadows.
Less ideal for bluewater cruisers who need preloaded coastal charts
If you want charts right out of the box without buying a card, the 79sc is a better fit. The 65 is best for users who value accuracy and versatility over marine-specific features.
7. Garmin eTrex 22x – Best Lightweight Marine Backup GPS
Garmin 010-02256-00 eTrex 22x, Rugged Handheld GPS Navigator, Black/Navy
25-hour battery
8GB memory
GLONASS
AA powered
Pros
- 25-hour battery life on two AA batteries
- Lightweight at 4.96 ounces
- Preloaded TopoActive maps with routable roads and trails
- 8GB internal memory with microSD slot
- Reliable and accurate for the price
Cons
- Small 2.2-inch screen
- Dated user interface
- Compass only works while moving
The eTrex 22x is the lightweight workhorse of the Garmin handheld lineup, with 2,058 reviews averaging 4.3 stars. It is not specifically a marine unit, but at 4.96 ounces it disappears in a PFD pocket, and the 25-hour battery life means I can take it on a multi-day kayak trip without worrying about charging. It is also one of the most affordable handhelds Garmin makes.
The 2.2-inch color TFT screen is small but readable, and the GLONASS support helps maintain a fix in tough conditions. With 8GB of internal memory plus a microSD slot, you can load marine chart cards for coastal use. The button interface is glove-friendly and reliable when wet, and the unit is built to handle drops and rain.
Where the eTrex 22x falls short for marine use is the lack of a floating design and preloaded coastal charts. It will not survive a swim the way the 79 series will, and you will need a chart card for serious navigation. The interface is also older and less intuitive than the GPSMAP line, and the compass only works while you are moving, which limits its use when anchored.
For a budget backup or a paddle sports unit, though, the 22x is hard to beat. I keep one in my dry bag as a tertiary navigation tool, and the AA batteries mean I never have to remember a charging cable.
Best for kayakers, paddleboarders, and budget backup needs
If you need a no-fuss backup that runs forever on AA batteries and weighs almost nothing, the 22x is a winner. It is also a great entry handheld for new boaters who want to learn the basics without spending a lot.
Less ideal for open-water navigation without a chart card
If you boat in open saltwater, the lack of preloaded charts and the small screen will frustrate you. Pair the 22x with a marine chart card and treat it as a backup, not a primary navigator.
8. Garmin GPSMAP 65s – Best Premium Handheld with ABC Sensors
Garmin GPSMAP 65s, Button-Operated Handheld with Altimeter and Compass, Expanded Satellite Support and Multi-Band Technology, 2.6″ Color Display
Multi-band GNSS
3-axis compass
16GB memory
Barometric altimeter
Pros
- Multi-band GNSS for around 6ft accuracy
- 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter
- 16GB internal memory
- Rugged weather-resistant build
- Physical buttons work with gloves
Cons
- Dated user interface
- Button scrolling can be tedious
- Maps limited to North and South America for US version
- SD card may fall out if not secured
The GPSMAP 65s is the premium version of the 65, adding a 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter to the multi-band GNSS for a more capable all-around handheld. With 316 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it is one of the highest-rated Garmin handhelds of the past few years. I tested it on a long-range cruise and the accuracy stayed within 6 feet even in tricky terrain.
The 16GB of internal memory holds plenty of charts, and the 2.6-inch color display is bright and readable in full sun. The buttons are tactile and work well with gloves, and the unit feels like a serious tool in your hand. Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity pair nicely with Garmin’s wider ecosystem, and the barometric altimeter is a fun bonus if you also hike.
On the downside, the interface is starting to feel dated compared to newer Garmin handhelds, and the button scrolling is tedious for entering waypoint names. The U.S. version of the 65s ships with North and South America maps, so you will need a separate card for European or Australian use. The SD card slot can also let the card slip if you do not seat it carefully.
Best for serious outdoor users who want a do-it-all handheld
If you split time between the boat, the trail, and the backcountry, the 65s gives you top-tier accuracy and ABC sensors in one unit. It is also a strong choice for marine users who want the latest GNSS technology and do not mind adding a chart card.
Less ideal for users who want marine-specific features out of the box
If you boat exclusively and want preloaded BlueChart detail, the 79sc or 86i is a better fit. The 65s is a crossover handheld that excels at accuracy but is not a purpose-built marine plotter.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Handheld Marine GPS?
A handheld marine GPS is one of the few pieces of safety gear I treat as non-negotiable aboard any boat. Here is what to consider before you buy.
Floating Design and Waterproof Rating
The single most important feature of any marine handheld is that it floats. Salt water dunkings happen, and a unit that sinks is gone forever. Look for the words “floats in water” in the product description, not just waterproof. Waterproofing matters too: IPX7 handles full immersion, while IPX6 is fine for spray but not submersion. Most Garmin marine handhelds rate IPX6 or IPX7 and float, which is the sweet spot.
Chart Compatibility and Maps
Preloaded coastal charts save you the hassle of buying a memory card. The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc ships with BlueChart g3 for U.S. coastal waters, while the 79s ships with a worldwide basemap that you will need to expand. If you boat in multiple regions or overseas, look for a unit with worldwide coverage or an easy way to load new chart cards. Garmin’s BlueChart g3 is the gold standard for U.S. waters.
Battery Life and Power Source
Long battery life matters offshore. Anything rated at 18+ hours is solid, and 25+ hours is excellent. Most Garmin handhelds run on AA batteries, which means you can swap fresh cells at any marina. Some units like the GPSMAP 86i have a built-in rechargeable battery that delivers up to 50 hours in tracking mode. For offshore use, AA-powered units are easier to keep alive on long passages.
Satellite Network Support
More satellite networks mean faster, more accurate fixes. Multi-constellation support (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou) and SBAS (WAAS) lock on faster and hold position better in tough conditions. Newer multi-band technology, found in the GPSMAP 65 and 65s, pushes accuracy to around 6 feet even under cliffs or tree canopy. If you navigate in tight terrain, multi-band is worth the upgrade.
Waypoint Storage and Routing
How many spots do you need to mark? A unit with 1,000 waypoints is fine for casual use, but serious anglers and cruisers will want 10,000+ waypoints and hundreds of routes. Look for a unit that also lets you organize waypoints into folders, share them wirelessly with friends, and edit them on a computer.
Display Readability in Sunlight
You will read the screen in direct sun more often than not. A 2.6-inch or 3-inch color display is the practical minimum. Look for a polarized lens for glare reduction, and check that the backlight is bright enough for midday use. Touchscreens are nice but can be hard to use with wet fingers; many boaters prefer buttons.
Safety Features and SOS
Marine alarms like man overboard, anchor drag, and off-course warnings are standard on most Garmin handhelds and are worth having. If you boat out of cell range, look for an inReach-equipped model like the GPSMAP 86i that adds satellite SOS and two-way messaging. For offshore solo use, that subscription is a small price for a real emergency link.
Handheld Marine GPS vs Smartphone Apps
Boaters often ask whether a smartphone app like Navionics or iNavX can replace a dedicated handheld. In my experience, the answer is no, not entirely. Apps are excellent secondary tools with great chart detail, route planning, and weather overlays. They are also great for shore-based planning. But phones are not waterproof in saltwater, batteries die in 4 to 6 hours under heavy GPS use, and screens are hard to read in direct sun.
A handheld marine GPS runs 18 to 50 hours on standard batteries, floats if dropped, and works in any weather. Most importantly, it works without cell service, which is exactly when you need navigation the most. The best setup is a phone app for planning and a handheld for redundancy. Treat the handheld as the lifeboat for your electronics, not the other way around.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best handheld marine GPS?
Garmin makes the best handheld marine GPS for most boaters. Their GPSMAP 79sc, 86i, and 78sc lead the field thanks to preloaded BlueChart coastal charts, floating waterproof designs, and 20+ hour battery life. Garmin’s multi-constellation satellite support and active boating community also make it the most trusted brand in the category.
Are handheld GPS units worth it for boating?
Yes, handheld GPS units are worth it for boating because they provide reliable backup navigation when primary electronics fail. They float if dropped overboard, run 18 to 50 hours on standard batteries, and work without cell service. A handheld costs a fraction of a fixed chartplotter and can save your trip when your main system dies in salt spray.
Can I use my phone as a marine GPS instead?
You can use your phone as a marine GPS for planning and near-shore navigation with apps like Navionics or iNavX, but it is not a full replacement. Phones are not rated for saltwater immersion, batteries drain in 4 to 6 hours under heavy GPS use, and screens are hard to read in direct sun. A dedicated handheld is a better primary backup and a true lifeboat for electronics.
What is the best marine GPS for a small boat?
The Garmin GPSMAP 78sc is the best marine GPS for a small boat under $350, with built-in BlueChart g2 charts, IPX7 waterproofing, and a floating design. For a tighter budget, the Garmin GPS 73 offers SailAssist features and marine alarms at a lower price. Both work well on center consoles, dinghies, and daysailers.
Do handheld marine GPS units float in water?
Most dedicated marine handhelds like the Garmin GPSMAP 79 series, 86i, and 78sc float in water by design. Hiking-focused units like the eTrex 22x are waterproof but do not float, so you will need a float bag. Always check the product description for the words ‘floats in water’ before you trust a handheld offshore.
Final Verdict: Which Handheld Marine GPS Should You Buy?
After months of testing, our team picked the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc as the best handheld marine GPS for most boaters. It combines preloaded BlueChart g3 charts, a floating waterproof build, and 20-hour battery life in a package that feels current in 2026. It is the easiest recommendation we can make for a coastal cruiser or weekend angler who wants charts without fuss.
If you boat out of cell range and want a real safety link, the Garmin GPSMAP 86i is the upgrade to make. The inReach SOS and two-way messaging add peace of mind that no chartplotter can match. For a tight budget, the Garmin GPS 73 still delivers SailAssist features and marine alarms at the lowest price on this list.
Whichever unit you pick, carry it on every trip. A handheld marine GPS is the cheapest insurance you can buy for a day on the water, and the day you need it most is the day you will be glad you had it.