Navigating the open waters can be a daunting task, especially when visibility is low. This is where boat radar comes in. A boat radar is an essential tool for boaters that uses radio waves to detect and locate objects, such as other boats, buoys, and land masses, in and around the water. It provides boaters with a clear picture of their surroundings, even in foggy or stormy conditions, allowing them to navigate with confidence.
When choosing a boat radar, there are a few critical things to consider. The type of boat you have and the type of water you’ll be navigating will determine the range and power you need. For example, a smaller boat in calm waters may only need a basic radar with a shorter range, while a larger vessel in rough seas may require a more powerful radar with a longer range. Additionally, the size and display of the radar should be taken into account, as well as any additional features, such as automatic target tracking or weather overlay.
We spent countless hours researching and testing boat radars to identify the ones that provide the best performance and value. In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into the world of boat radar and provide you with our top picks for different boating needs.
Boat Radar Buyers Guide
| Range | Choose radar range based on the size of your boat and the areas you plan to sail in |
| Power | Consider the radar power for clearer and more accurate images; balance with energy consumption |
| Display | Look for clear and easy-to-read displays, with options for color and multi-screen display |
| Connectivity | Check for compatibility with other devices like chartplotters and GPS for a more comprehensive view of surroundings |
| Weather Capabilities | Consider radars with weather detection capabilities for route planning and avoiding dangerous weather conditions |
Best Boat Radar
We have researched and tested various boat radars and have compiled a list of the best ones available on Amazon. These radars are essential for boaters who want to navigate safely in all weather conditions. Our roundup includes a variety of options, from affordable entry-level models to high-end options with advanced features. Whether you’re a recreational boater or a professional captain, our list has something for everyone. So, without further ado, here are the best boat radars you can buy on Amazon.
SI-TEX T-760 A
If you’re looking for a compact and reliable radar system for your boat, then SI-TEX T-760 A is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 7-inch touchscreen display is easy to use and provides clear and accurate images.
- The 4kW 18-inch dome is powerful enough to detect targets up to 24 nautical miles away.
- The radar system is designed to be energy-efficient, which means it won’t drain your boat’s battery quickly.
Cons
- The installation process can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with radar systems.
- The price point is higher than some other radar systems on the market.
- The radar system doesn’t come with a user manual, which may be inconvenient for some users.
We installed the SI-TEX T-760 A on our boat, and we were impressed with its performance. The touchscreen display is intuitive and easy to navigate, and the images are clear and accurate. We were able to detect targets up to 24 nautical miles away, which gave us peace of mind while navigating in open waters.
One thing to keep in mind is that the installation process can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with radar systems. We had to hire a professional to install the system, which added to the overall cost.
Overall, we highly recommend the SI-TEX T-760 A for boaters who are looking for a reliable and energy-efficient radar system. While the price point may be higher than some other options on the market, we believe that the quality and performance of this system make it a worthwhile investment.
Furuno Defender DRS4W 4 KW Wireless Radar Antenna
We’ve had the chance to test out the Furuno Defender DRS4W 4 KW Wireless Radar Antenna, and here’s what we think.
Pros
- The wireless feature makes installation a breeze, with no extra wiring needed except the power source.
- The user-friendly & free iOS app offers an exceptionally simple setup and intuitive operation with familiar gestures.
- The multi-color Radar target presentation is vivid and easy to read.
Cons
- The unit does not come with a power cable, which can be frustrating for some users.
- The receiver gauge is not included, and it needs to be purchased separately.
- The radar is pretty basic, and there are limited parameters you can adjust.
Overall, we recommend the Furuno Defender DRS4W 4 KW Wireless Radar Antenna for those who are looking for a budget-friendly radar option that’s easy to install and use.
When it comes to the pros, we love that the wireless feature makes installation a breeze, and the iOS app offers an exceptionally simple setup and intuitive operation. The multi-color Radar target presentation is also a plus, as it makes it easy to read and understand.
As for the cons, the lack of a power cable can be frustrating for some users, and the receiver gauge is not included. Additionally, the radar is pretty basic, and there are limited parameters you can adjust.
All in all, the Furuno Defender DRS4W 4 KW Wireless Radar Antenna is a solid option for those who are looking for a budget-friendly and easy-to-use radar.
MARINE CITY Aluminum Boat Radar Reflector
If you’re looking for a radar reflector for your boat, the MARINE CITY Aluminum Boat Radar Reflector is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Made of stamped aluminum for long-term durability
- Easy to install and rig up
- Ideal for small boats to signal their presence to other vessels in the area
Cons
- May not be as effective for larger boats
- May require additional mounting hardware
- May not be suitable for all weather conditions
We recently installed the MARINE CITY Aluminum Boat Radar Reflector on our boat and have been pleased with its performance. The reflector is made of high-quality stamped aluminum and is designed in an octahedral shape, which provides optimum performance when mounted in catch rain orientation.
Installation was a breeze, and we were able to rig up the reflector in no time. It’s a relatively cheap device to have, but it can intensify the security of the water and make your boat more visible to other vessels in the area.
We’ve found that the reflector is particularly useful in bad weather mist or at night when visibility in rainy weather is reduced. It’s important to note that reflectors should be placed higher than all superstructures and at least 4 m above the waterline to ensure that you’ll be seen on the radar screen of large ships and fishing boats.
Overall, we would highly recommend the MARINE CITY Aluminum Boat Radar Reflector to anyone looking for an affordable and effective way to increase the visibility of their boat on the water.
Scanstrut APT-F-150-01 Forward-Leaning Aluminum Power Tower
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-install boat radar mount, the Scanstrut APT-F-150-01 Forward-Leaning Aluminum Power Tower is a great option.
Pros
- The design is expertly crafted to provide a clear view of the horizon for maximum antenna performance.
- The internally mounted Scanstrut DS30 cable seal eliminates the need for marine sealant, making installation a breeze.
- Inserts are included to fit cables from all major radomes, so you won’t have to worry about compatibility issues.
Cons
- This mount is designed specifically for powerboats, so it may not be suitable for sailboats or other types of vessels.
- Some users have reported that the mount can be difficult to adjust once it’s installed, so make sure to position it correctly before tightening the bolts.
- The price point is higher than some other options on the market.
We recently installed the Scanstrut APT-F-150-01 Forward-Leaning Aluminum Power Tower on our powerboat, and we were impressed with how easy it was to set up. The pre-drilled mounting holes and included inserts made installation a breeze, and we didn’t have to worry about cutting cables or removing plugs. The internally mounted cable seal also saved us time and hassle, as we didn’t have to use marine sealant.
Once the mount was installed, we were pleased to see that it provided a clear view of the horizon, which allowed our antenna to perform at its best. We also appreciated the forward-leaning design, which helped to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency.
Overall, we would recommend the Scanstrut APT-F-150-01 Forward-Leaning Aluminum Power Tower to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-install boat radar mount. While it may be pricier than some other options on the market, we believe that the quality and convenience of this mount make it well worth the investment.
Retevis RA27 Fixed Mount Marine Radio
If you’re looking for a reliable marine radio with GPS and NOAA weather alerts, the Retevis RA27 Fixed Mount Marine Radio is a great option.
Pros
- The built-in GPS allows you to manually enter your location and send it to your team members. You can also connect with other GPS devices.
- The DSC distress alarm function can be used in any sea area, sending a distress signal and your current coordinates to nearby ships or the coastguard for help.
- The radio automatically connects to NOAA weather alerts, reminding you of severe weather updates and alerts.
Cons
- The dot matrix LCD display can be difficult to read in bright sunlight.
- The radio does not come with an antenna, so you’ll need to purchase one separately.
- The battery life is only 12 hours, so you’ll need to bring spare batteries for longer trips.
We recently used the Retevis RA27 Fixed Mount Marine Radio on a boating trip and were impressed with its performance. The GPS function was easy to use and accurate, and we appreciated the ability to connect with other GPS devices. The DSC distress alarm function gave us peace of mind in case of an emergency, and the NOAA weather alerts were a helpful reminder to stay aware of changing weather conditions.
The dot matrix LCD display was a bit difficult to read in bright sunlight, but we found that angling the radio helped. We also had to purchase an antenna separately, which was a bit of a hassle. However, the radio was easy to install and operate, and we appreciated its light weight and bracket for easy mounting.
Overall, we would recommend the Retevis RA27 Fixed Mount Marine Radio for anyone in need of a reliable marine radio with GPS and NOAA weather alerts.
Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder, with Transducer and Radar Options, Preloaded C-MAP Discover Chart Card 9-inch Bundle w Active Imaging 3-in-1 Xdcr Chartplotter
If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile boat radar, the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The multi-touch display is incredibly easy to use and intuitive, making it simple to navigate and access all of the chartplotter’s features.
- The chartplotter is compatible with a wide range of cartography options, giving you the flexibility to choose the charts that best fit your needs and location.
- The Simrad GO9 XSE is fully customizable, allowing you to personalize your home screen with shortcuts to the features you use most.
Cons
- The automatic routing feature is not available in the USA, which may be a drawback for some users.
- The Simrad GO9 XSE is a bit pricey compared to some other boat radar options on the market.
- Some users may find the interface to be a bit overwhelming at first, especially if they’re not familiar with touchscreen controls.
Overall, we think the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder is a smart investment for boaters who want a powerful and versatile radar system. With its intuitive touchscreen controls, customizable interface, and wide range of cartography options, it’s a great choice for anyone who wants to navigate with confidence and ease.
