5 Best Marine Navigation Software For PС in 2024

Technology is developing very fast and the sphere of marine navigation has been also affected by such advancements, so no wonder many avid salesmen are searching for the best marine navigation software for PC. The programs created for maritime navigation allow you to turn your desktop computer or even a tablet into a full-featured chartplotter.

In other words, you can back up data received by the electronics arranged on the boat to your PC and have the most elaborate navigating tools while roaming seas and oceans.

Top 5 Marine Navigation Software for PС

  1. iNavX - Works with vector charts
  2. iSail GPS - For importing and exporting GPX waypoints
  3. OpenCPN - Customizable ship-tracking display options
  4. TimeZero - With autopilot output connection
  5. ActiveCaptain - With Interactive Crusing Guidebook feature

Using the best marina navigation software, you can always define your current location and map out your further maneuvers to get to the desired destination in the quickest and safest way. If the route is expected to be complicated, you can use such software to build way points by dint of a chart plotter.

However, mind that sometimes electronics work inaccurately or even get damaged, so it is highly recommended to have a set of paper charts and marine binocular within easy reach. We have selected the most reliable marine navigation software and described them below.

1. iNavX - Our Choice

Works with vector charts
  • With mobile navigation app
  • Works with both raster and vector charts
  • Weather data overlays available
  • A bit complicated

Verdict: iNavX map software for Win is one of the best available options when it comes to charting and analyzing ocean data. You can use this software on any operating system. The product ships with a standard chart package that includes basic compass directions, trackers, icons, graphics, text, and a help section to help you get started.

You can personalize the software with additional maps, charts, input and save links, and much more.

inavx interface

2. iSail GPS

For importing and exporting GPX waypoints
  • Quickly measure distance between any two points
  • Charts switch automatically as you sail
  • Cheap and cheerful
  • Shows ETA to intermediate waypoints
  • Mac only

Verdict: iSail GPS is a revolutionary GPS software that can be used in the water and gives you real-time information about marine navigation. With this high-performance map drawing software, you can easily browse through over 50 channels and plan your next move or just check on your current position on the world map.

But it does have its cons, like the fact that you can only use this software when you are on land, and the prices for iSail GPS can get quite expensive, but if you are really into marine navigation then you will not mind paying for this software.

isail gps interface

3. OpenCPN

Customizable ship-tracking display options
  • Automatic chart quilting
  • Chart zoom in/zoom out
  • Chartplotter compatibilit
  • Road maps require access to network

Verdict: OpenCPN (Consolidated Packaging Network) is a collaborative effort by developers from all over the world to develop a free software solution to create a quick and easy chart plotter and navigational software, suitable for immediate use or as a back up tool for future planning.

OpenCPN is built by a group of international, active sailors who apply real-world conditions for application testing and refinements. This has given the software a reputation of being a robust, versatile and simple to use navigational tool, offering both great ease of use and a wide range of features. There is also a growing community of users contributing code, looking for enhancements and asking questions.

opencpn marine navigation software for pc interface

4. TimeZero

With autopilot output connection
  • Can be installed on 2 computers
  • Touch screen compatible user interface
  • Unlimited GFS weather forecasts
  • All your data is accessible online and offline
  • Takes some getting used to

Verdict: TimeZero is a full-featured marine navigation software for PC that is available in three versions. The basic version is designed to guide beginners in the art of sailing a boat or yacht and provides all the necessary assistance in learning the craft. The Pro version adds more features to the Basic version and is recommended for intermediate users who want to master the basics of the program.

The last of the three versions, the Enterprise version is the most complete program and is designed for experienced sailing enthusiasts who wish to take their hobby to the next level. This product has received numerous positive feedbacks and reviews from customers all over the world.

timezero marine navigation software for pc interface

5. ActiveCaptain

With Interactive Crusing Guidebook feature
  • 3D view and satellite images
  • Built-in OneChart feature
  • Optional Radar and AIS modules
  • Only paid version

Verdict: The first and the foremost pro about ActiveCaptain is that it is an easy-to-use GPS/autical navigation software for PC. It comes with an array of features including an efficient interface, easy to follow videos, easy to understand manuals, multiple menu choices, live monitoring, voice overs, and many other innovative features.

The second pro about ActiveCaptain is that it is a good cost for its quality. This product has received numerous positive feedbacks and reviews from customers all over the world. The third pro about ActiveCaptain is that it is user-friendly and compatible with all versions of Microsoft windows.

activecaptain marine navigation software for pc interface
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