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Best Jet Ski GPS Reviews: Top Picks & Buyer’s Guide

We curated this list of the best jet ski GPS models for you. We'll unpack our top choices and recommend the right GPS to enhance your jet ski experience.
John SampsonBy John SampsonDecember 28, 202321 Mins Read
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Best Jet Ski GPS Reviews: Top Picks & Buyer's Guide
Best Jet Ski GPS Reviews: Top Picks & Buyer's Guide
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Are you planning a trip to the Bahamas or an exotic island destination in the Caribbean? Using your jet ski to reach the Virgin Islands from Florida is easier than you think. However, you can’t launch the ski and point it in the island’s direction, hoping you’ll land there.

The wind, swell, and current will track you off-course, and you could end up far away from your expected destination. If you want to arrive on time and at the right place, you need a GPS for your jet ski. A GPS tracks your position anywhere in the water, on the east and west coasts, and around the gulf.

Installing a GPS to your ski isn’t a nice-to-have accessory. It’s a must-have piece of equipment if you plan on going far offshore with your ski. Unfortunately, only the high-end jet ski models have a GPS fitted as standard equipment. If you don’t have an onboard GPS, you’ll need to buy it as an aftermarket accessory for your ski.

We curated this list of the best jet ski GPS models for you. We’ll unpack our top choices and recommend the right GPS to enhance your jet ski experience.


Contents

Our Top Picks

Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 43cv, 4.3-inch Sunlight-readable Combo, Includes GT20 Transducer, with U.S. Lakevu G3 Maps and Clearvu and Traditional Chirp Sonar
Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 43cv, 4.3-inch...
View on Amazon
Sale Garmin GPSMAP 86Sci, Floating Handheld GPS with Button Operation, Preloaded BlueChart G3 Coastal Charts And Inreach Satellite Communication capabilities, Stream Boat Data From Compatible Chartplotters
Garmin GPSMAP 86Sci, Floating Handheld GPS with...
$529.95
View on Amazon
Garmin Striker Plus 4 with Dual-Beam Transducer and ExpertPower 12v 7ah Rechargeable Sealed Lead Acid Battery
Garmin Striker Plus 4 with Dual-Beam Transducer...
Amazon Prime
$182.98
View on Amazon
  • The Best Overall Jet Ski GPS – Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 43cv
  • The Best Premium Jet Ski GPS – Garmin GPSMAP 86SC
  • The Best Budget Jet Ski GPS – Garmin Striker Plus 4

Jet Ski GPS Reviews

Best Pick: Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 43cv 

We picked the Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 43cv as the best overall jet ski GPS. This system is lightweight and portable, fitting comfortably in your hand for easy operation. It comes with a mount that attaches to the body of the ski around the cockpit, giving you hands-free operation of the device when cruising.

This model is compact, but it has an impressive 4.3-inch color screen, offering excellent visibility. The screen is bright, and you’ll find it easy to read, even in the direct sunlight, with no washout. This GPS comes loaded with LakeVü g3 maps, offering you integrated Navionics data for the device, covering over 17,000 lakes across the United States.

Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 43cv, 4.3-inch Sunlight-readable Combo, Includes GT20 Transducer, with U.S. Lakevu G3 Maps and Clearvu and Traditional Chirp Sonar
Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 43cv, 4.3-inch Sunlight-readable Combo, Includes GT20 Transducer, with U.S. Lakevu G3 Maps and Clearvu and Traditional Chirp Sonar
  • Bright, sunlight-readable 4.3” combo
  • Includes GT20 transducer for Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar plus CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar with transom and trolling motor mounts
  • Preloaded LakeVü g3 maps with integrated Navionics data cover more than 17,000 lakes with up to 1’ contours
  • Built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping software instantly creates personalized fishing maps on-screen with 1’ contours as you fish
  • Share waypoints and routes with other ECHOMAP or STRIKER units
View on Amazon

The system comes with onboard Quickdraw Contours mapping software, allowing you to create custom fishing maps on the screen using 1-foot contours as you fish off the boat. You can share your waypoints and trip data with other ECHOMAP or Striker users, allowing you to benefit from the information provided by the extensive online community.

The ECHOMAP 43cv comes with excellent navigation between menus and fast map loading times for a clean, user-friendly experience. Plus, the 43cv also comes with a fishfinder. If you enjoy angling, the Striker 4 helps you see the bottom at your favorite spot, allowing you to see if it’s worth dropping your line or if you should move to another site.

The ECHOMAP uses a GT20 transducer operating CHIRP sonar. The transducer delivers impressive target separation, and the CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar provides easy-to-read imagery of the bottom. You can install the transducer yourself without the need to hire a professional. Overall, the ECHOMAP 43cv gives you everything you need from a GPS and fishfinder. It’s compact, functional, and easy to use.

What We Liked

  • ECHOMAP Plus 43cv with LakeVü G3 for US.
  • GT20-TM transducer included.
  • Tilting swivel mount with cradle.
  • IPX7 waterproof rating.
  • Allows data sharing with ECHOMAP and Striker users.

Premium Pick: Garmin GPSMAP 86sci 

Being out on the jet ski with your GPS means that you risk dropping it in the water. Sure, models like the ECHOMAP 43cv come with a mount that secures them to the watercraft. So, you don’t need waterproofing and float functions from these devices.

However, handhelds are a different story. Snagging it in your pocket may cause you to drop it in the water, ruining the device. The Garmin GPSMAP 86sci is the flagship handheld portable GPS from the leading brand. This device comes with IPX waterproof rating, and it floats if you drop it in the water, allowing for rapid recovery of the device.

Sale
Garmin GPSMAP 86Sci, Floating Handheld GPS with Button Operation, Preloaded BlueChart G3 Coastal Charts And Inreach Satellite Communication capabilities, Stream Boat Data From Compatible Chartplotters
Garmin GPSMAP 86Sci, Floating Handheld GPS with Button Operation, Preloaded BlueChart G3 Coastal Charts And Inreach Satellite Communication capabilities, Stream Boat Data From Compatible Chartplotters
  • Water-resistant, floating design, sunlight-visible 3” display and button operation provide ease of use on the water
  • Stream boat data from compatible chartplotters and instruments to consolidate your marine system information
  • Preloaded bluechart G3 coastal charts include the best of Garmin and Navionics data
  • Stay in touch with in reach satellite communication and two-way text messaging via the 100% Global Iridium satellite network (satellite subscription required)
  • Functions as a remote control for convenient operation of your Garmin autopilot and Fusion Marine products; to activate, download free apps from our Connect IQ store
$529.95
View on Amazon

The 86sci comes with Bluechart G3 coastal charts collaborating with Navionics data preloaded onto the device. The 3-inch screen is smaller than the ECHOMAP, but it’s surprisingly large for a handheld device. The 86sci allows users to stream data from compatible instruments and chartplotters to improve the system.

This model comes with satellite communications, replacing the need for a VHF radio. You get options for calls and two-way text messaging integrated into the device interface using the 100% Global Iridium satellite network.

The 86sci offers you remote control functionality for the operation of Garmin Autopilot and Fusion Marine products. Download an app from the Connect IQ store, and you’re ready to go. Overall, this model is the top-of-the-line choice for a handheld.

You can sign up for the satellite subscription package, allowing you to access features like SOS to the USGCs 24/7 search and rescue center. The 86sci also features an adjustable GPS filter, smooth speed, and heading indications when you’re riding over swells. It might be expensive, but it’s the best device for active users that need a portable model.

What We Liked

  • Compact and water resistant.
  • Floats in the water.
  • Preloaded Bluechart G3 coastal charts with Navionics data.
  • Allows data sharing with Garmin users.

Budget Pick: Garmin Striker Plus 4 

The Garmin Striker Plus 4 offers you the best value deal in this review. It’s ideal for jet ski owners on a budget looking for a functional and affordable device. The Striker Plus 4 has a similar form factor to the ECHOMAP, with a tilt-and-swivel mounting to your jet ski for secure operation and simple installation.

This model comes preloaded with LakeVü g3 maps, offering you integrated Navionics data for the device, covering over 17,000 lakes across the United States. The GPS allows you to mark your waypoints a create and track your routes. The Garmin quickdraw contours mapping software with the Striker Plus 4 lets you create and store your maps with 1-foot contours over 2-million acres.

Garmin Striker Plus 4 with Dual-Beam Transducer and ExpertPower 12v 7ah Rechargeable Sealed Lead Acid Battery
Garmin Striker Plus 4 with Dual-Beam Transducer and ExpertPower 12v 7ah Rechargeable Sealed Lead Acid Battery
  • Includes Garmin Striker Plus 4 with 4.3” display, built-in GPS, CHIRP sonar, and Quickdraw mapping capabilities to store up to 2 million acres of maps with 1’ contours. (CHIRP - Compressed High-Intensity Radiated Pulse)
  • Comes with dual-beam transducer with 200 W (RMS) transmit power and 50/77/83/200 kHz frequencies supported for traditional sonar imaging.
  • Includes ExpertPower 12 Volt 7 Amp hour sealed lead acid rechargeable battery with F1 terminals for powering accessories.
  • Rugged design of fishfinder for usage in different fishing environments. Touchscreen control method.
  • Maintenance free AGM battery technology of ExpertPower battery allows spill-proof and trouble-free operation.
$182.98 Amazon Prime
View on Amazon

The Striker Plus 4 features a bright, visible 4.3-inch display that’s easy to read in the direct sunlight and when wearing polarized sunglasses. You get easy navigation between menus with large buttons and a toggle switch in the center of the button controls.

The Striker Plus 4 comes with a dual-beam transducer and fishfinder function. It features Garmin CHIRP sonar for crystal-clear resolution and easy identification of bottom conditions and fish life on the reef or in the lake. You get excellent target separation and impressive imagery.

This model comes with an upgraded battery system. You get a Genuine ExpertPower Battery that’s one of the most trusted and highly-rated lead-acid battery packs available. There are F1 terminals, and you get a 20-amp hour, 12-volt configuration for fast charging and long service life.

What We Liked

  • Fishfinder and GPS compatibility with transducer included.
  • Preloaded with LakeVü g3 maps.
  • IPX7 waterproof rating.

Garmin GPSMAP 79s

The Garmin GPSMAP 79s offers you another handheld, portable marine GPS. This model, like the 86sci, floats if you drop it in the water, and it comes with an IPX7 waterproof rating. You get up to 20-hours of battery life in GPS mode for class-leading performance.

The 79s has a 3-inch color screen with excellent resolution, and it won’t wash out under direct sunlight or when using polarized sunglasses. The screen is scratch-resistant, with fog-proof glass. The GPS function connects to the Garmin Worldwide Base Map, and it comes with Bluechart G3 coastal charts and Navionics data preloaded on the device.

Sale
Garmin GPSMAP 79s, Marine GPS Handheld with Worldwide Basemap, Rugged Design and Floats in Water
Garmin GPSMAP 79s, Marine GPS Handheld with Worldwide Basemap, Rugged Design and Floats in Water
  • Rugged, floating, water-resistant (IPX6 — unit level only) handheld GPS with a high-resolution color display and scratch-resistant, fogproof glass
  • Increased memory to save and track 10,000 waypoints, 250 routes and 300 fit activities
  • Supports multiple satellite constellations (GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, QZSS and SBAS) for reliable tracking around the world
  • Includes worldwide basemap
  • Built-in 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass shows heading while standing still
$265.50 Amazon Prime
View on Amazon

The onboard 3-axis compass features tilt compensation for when you’re riding over swells at sea. You also get a barometric altimeter monitoring weather conditions. The GPS unit has enough memory to track up to 250 routes, 10,000 waypoints, and 300 activities. Like the 86sci, this model supports satellite communications, but you’ll need to take the subscription to access these features.

This handheld model is a great choice if you don’t want to spend the extra money on the 86sci. The 79s gives you a functional and affordable handheld GPS for your jet ski with user-friendly operation.

What We Liked

  • Waterproof, floating design with IPX7 rating.
  • 3-inch color display.
  • Worldwide Base Map and Bluechart G3 coastal charts.
  • 20-hour battery life.

Garmin GPSMAP 64sx

If you’re heading out to the lakes, then consider the Garmin GPSMAP 65. This model is a great choice for inland fishing. It comes preloaded with the Garmin TOPO maps suite so it’s only suitable for use in-land, not in coastal waters.

However, if you enjoy jet ski camping, then this model is a great choice. You get information on topographic elevations, summits, coastlines, rivers, lakes and other geographical points covering all US National Parks. You also get data on public land boundaries, allowing you the check if you’re trespassing on other peoples land.

Sale
Garmin 010-02258-10 GPSMAP 64sx, Handheld GPS with Altimeter and Compass, Preloaded With TopoActive Maps, Black/Tan
Garmin 010-02258-10 GPSMAP 64sx, Handheld GPS with Altimeter and Compass, Preloaded With TopoActive Maps, Black/Tan
  • Rugged and water-resistant design with button operation and a 2. 6” sunlight-readable color display
  • Preloaded with Topo Active maps (U. S. and Australia only) featuring routable roads and trails for cycling and hiking
  • Know where you’re at with a high-sensitivity receiver with quad helix antenna and multi-GNSS support (GPS, GLONASS and Galileo) and 3-axis compass with barometric altimeter
  • Wireless connectivity via BLUETOOTH technology and ANT+ technology available on GPSMAP 64sx and GPSMAP 64csx models
  • Battery life: up to 16 hours in GPS mode
$289.91 Amazon Prime
View on Amazon

The Garmin GPSMAP 65 features multi-band technology with expanded support for GNSS, QZSS, GLONASS, Galileo, and IRNSS. You get accurate GPS information, even when you’re setting up camp under the trees. The GPS tracks your routes and waypoints, allowing you to review stats in the field.

The GPS pairs with your smart device, allowing you to receive emails, text messages, and alerts directly from the device. You get a 2.6-inch color screen that won’t washout in direct sunlight, and a compact form factor that fits snugly in your PFD dry pocket.

The large buttons are easy to press when wearing gloves and you get easy menu navigation using the toggle button in the center of the control panel.

What We Liked

  • An affordable choice for jet ski camping.
  • GPS data on National Parks and public land boundaries.
  • Multi-band technology.
  • User-friendly buttons and interface.

Lowrance HOOK Reveal Fish Finder

The Lowrance HOOK Reveal Fishfinder and GPS offer you permanent mounting to your jet ski. If you’re an avid angler, then you need a fishfinder with your GPS to see what’s beneath the boat at your fishing spot. While handheld models like the Striker Plus 4 and the ECHOMAP Plus 43cv offer you a good view of the bottom, they can’t compare to the view from this 5-inch screen.

This model is bulky compared to the other offerings in this review. Thanks to its small footprint, it’s easy to mount the cradle to the ski. The Reveal comes preloaded with C-MAP data, featuring high-resolution 1-foot contours covering 8,900 US lakes. You get coverage for inland lakes and coastal areas in the US and Canada.

Lowrance HOOK2 4X with Bullet Skimmer CHIRP Transducer and GPS
Lowrance HOOK2 4X with Bullet Skimmer CHIRP Transducer and GPS
  • EASIEST TO USE: The Lowrance HOOK2 4x Fish Finder features auto-tuning sonar and phone-like menus giving you more time to spend fishing and less time dealing with settings.
  • WIDER SONAR COVERAGE: The HOOK2 4x offers a wide-angle CHIRP sonar cone giving you double the coverage of traditional fish finders.
  • EASY SETUP: A single transducer can be mounted on the transom, inside the hull, on the trolling motor or through a scupper hole. The HOOK2 4x is ideal for small fishing boats or kayaks with limited console space.
  • FISH FINDER & GPS: The HOOK2 4x provides basic navigation with a GPS plotter that allows you to add waypoints, follow trails, and navigate.
  • TRANSDUCER INCLUDED: The included Bullet Skimmer transducer gives you traditional 2-D CHIRP sonar (fish arch) views.
View on Amazon

The HOOK Reveal comes with SplitShot CHIRP sonar, including DownScan imaging for an accurate view of the bottom and the life on the reef or in the lake. It’s the ideal choice for a split-screen model, thanks to the large 5-inch display.

The SplitShot offers a wide-angle CHIRP sonar transducer, giving you high-res imaging of the bottom structure from the innovative DownScan imaging. The SplitShot also has autotuning sonar functionality, removing the need to rework your settings in different water conditions.

As a result, the fish are easy to find and identify. The GPS also comes with the ability to save your routes and waypoints. Thanks to the large buttons and the center toggle switch, you get a user-friendly operation for moving between menus. The HOOK Reveal comes with an IPX6 waterproof rating, but it won’t float if it somehow lands in the water.

What We Liked

  • GPS and Fishfinder with transducer included.
  • Easy installation.
  • C-MAP GPS data for inland waterways and coastal waters.
  • Autotuning sonar.
  • Large 5-inch display.

Simrad Cruise 5 5-inch

We wrap up our review of the best jet ski GPS models with the Simrad 5.5-inch Cruise. If you have the budget and want the best equipment available for your ski, Simrad is the way to go. Professional and commercial anglers rely on Simrad products for their boat or ski.

The Simrad is expensive, so if you’re not into fishing, you might want to consider the Garmin 86sci instead. However, if you need a GPS and fishfinder system for your jet ski, you’ll not find a better quality product than this model.

Simrad Cruise 5-5-inch GPS Chartplotter with 83/200 Transducer Preloaded C-MAP US Coastal Maps
Simrad Cruise 5-5-inch GPS Chartplotter with 83/200 Transducer Preloaded C-MAP US Coastal Maps
  • CRUISE CONFIDENTLY: Simrad Cruise is the most intuitive, easy-to-use chartplotter available. Everything you need for simple and straightforward GPS navigation is right inside the box.
  • ALWAYS ON COURSE: Preloaded with a US coastal map, Simrad Cruise comes complete with all the charts you need to enjoy your day on the water. Supports enhanced charts from C-MAP and Navionics.
  • EFFORTLESS CONTROL: Intuitive menus let you quickly find the information you need, when you need it. Rotary dial and keypad controls make navigating from screen to screen effortless.
  • STAY INFORMED: Depth readings, position, battery voltage and other critical boat information, can all be monitored on your screen for quick reference and situational awareness.
  • CHIRP SONAR TRANSDUCER: Included 83/200 transducer provides excellent automatic depth tracking for worry-free operation without the need for fine tuning or pre-programming.
$320.03 Amazon Prime
View on Amazon

Like the Hook Reveal, the Simrad Cruise comes with a permanent mounting system to the ski, featuring a small footprint for easy installation. The large 5.5-inch touchscreen comes with split-screen capability, allowing you to check the bottom while looking at your GPS information.

The Simrad Cruise comes preloaded with US coastal maps, and it’s the ideal choice for taking offshore for some deep-sea fishing. The unit also supports C-MAP and Navionics data for optimal GPS tracking.

The large 5.5-inch screen is the biggest in this review, and you get large raised buttons and two toggle buttons for easy menu navigation. The Simrad comes with an 83/200 transducer offering you automatic depth tracking and position referencing. The CHIRP sonar is accurate, giving you a clear view of the sea life on the bottom.

While it might be the most expensive option for your jet ski, it’s a premium choice, and you won’t regret spending the money on the device.

What We Liked

  • Large 5.5-inch color display.
  • Splitscreen technology.
  • 83/200 transducer included.
  • Easy menu navigation.

Other Best Selling Options

Bestseller No. 1
Garmin 010-01870-00 Striker Plus 4 with Dual-Beam transducer
Garmin 010-01870-00 Striker Plus 4 with Dual-Beam transducer
  • Includes dual-beam transducer with Garmin Chirp traditional sonar for crystal-clear images and remarkable target separation.Control Method:Touch.Special Feature:Bluetooth.
  • Built-in Garmin quickdraw contours mapping software lets you create and store maps with 1’ contours for up to 2 million acres
  • Built-in GPS lets you mark waypoints, create routes and view boat’s speed
  • Bright, Sunlight-readable 4.3” display and intuitive user interface
  • Rugged design for every fishing environment. Frequencies supported: Traditional: 50/77/83/200 kHz, Transmit power: 200 W (RMS)
$159.99 Amazon Prime
View on Amazon
Bestseller No. 2
Garmin 010-02550-00 Striker Vivid 4cv, Easy-to-Use 4-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Color Palettes
Garmin 010-02550-00 Striker Vivid 4cv, Easy-to-Use 4-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Color Palettes
  • Easy-to-use 4-inch color fishfinder with new vivid scanning sonar color palettes to easily distinguish fish and structure; tilt/swivel bailmount bracket included
  • Includes a GT20 transducer for built-in Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar
  • High-sensitivity GPS to mark waypoints, create routes and view your boat’s speed
  • Includes built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping
$179.99
View on Amazon
Bestseller No. 3
Garmin Striker Plus 4 with Dual-Beam Transducer and Protective Cover, 4.3' LED Display, 1.1 lbs, Fishfinder, Plus 4 Model
Garmin Striker Plus 4 with Dual-Beam Transducer and Protective Cover, 4.3" LED Display, 1.1 lbs, Fishfinder, Plus 4 Model
$159.99
View on Amazon

Jet Ski GPS Buyers Guide

If you’re buying a luxury jet ski model, it comes with GPS as standard equipment. However, the entry-level skis don’t have this functionality. If you want a GPS, you’ll have to order it from the dealer as an optional extra, or you’ll have to order an aftermarket product.

The good part about ordering the GPS with the dealer is that they include the cost of the device in your jet ski purchase. You can pay it off in installments if you’re financing the PWC. However, the counterargument is that dealers charge around 30% to 40% more for the same equipment you can buy aftermarket.

So, going with the dealer has its benefits, but if you’re trying to save money, it’s better to order an aftermarket product. This buyer’s guide gives you everything you need to know about choosing the best aftermarket GPS for your jet ski.

What is a Marine Jet Ski GPS?

A marine GPS helps you track your position offshore. These devices come preloaded with maps of coastal waters, inland waterways, and lakes. They have a specific design for use on the water. They come with waterproof ratings, and the handheld devices float in the water for easy recovery if you drop them.

The marine GPS allows you to plot courses and save your routes, waypoints, and favorite offshore or inland fishing spots. Marine jet ski GPS devices come with GPS navigation, and many of them also feature fishfinder modules for looking at the reef or the bottom of the lake.

Marine GPS
Best Marine GPS Reviews: Here’s Our Top Picks With Buyer’s Guide

Types of Jet Ski GPS

Jet ski GPS devices come in three specific models to suit your needs.

  • Handheld
  • Portable
  • Fixed

Handheld Marine GPS

The handheld GPS is a small device that fits in your hand and your jacket pocket. Typically, these devices offer only GPS functions, and they don’t have fishfinder modules. Many handheld models also connect to your phone and to satellite networks.

As a result of this multi-channel connectivity, you can receive text messages and calls directly from the device. The satellite communications also allow you to reach the Coast Guard in an emergency. These devices attach via a lanyard to prevent them from falling into the water.

However, if your GPS does end up in the drink, it’s waterproof, and it floats.

Portable Boat GPS Devices

These GPS devices offer you handheld use, and they fit a mounting bracket on your jet ski for hands-free operation.

Many of these models come with GPS and fishfinder functions. They are ideal for owners that leave their jet skis in the marina. You can remove the GPS from its mounting bracket to prevent someone from stealing it.

Fixed Marine GPS Devices

The fixed mounting system means that the GPS sits in the mount, and you can’t remove it. Fixed systems usually come with the best GPS and fishfinder modules, and they have bigger screens with large buttons and toggle switches for an improved user experience.

Unlike the portable and handheld systems, the fixed GPS wires into the electrical circuit of your jet ski. However, they are not good choices if you leave your jet ski in the marina, as someone is sure to steal this expensive piece of equipment.

Fish Finder
Best Fish Finder Reviews: Complete Buyer’s Guide

Power Options

If you’re purchasing a handheld or portable model, look at the battery life. The best portables and handhelds offer you around 20-hours battery life when using the GPS module. Make sure that the GPS comes with a charger, and look for fast chargers as an accessory to speed u charging times.

Maps and Charts

Your GPS should come with built-in maps preloaded onto the device. Some models rely on LakeVü g3 maps and integrated Navionics data for inland lakes and waterways.

Ocean GPS models may feature Bluechart G3 coastal charts for navigating the ocean. Most maps include positioning data for American, Canadian, and Gulf waters.

Display

The smaller handheld models come with 2-inch to 3-inch screens. The portables will offer you a larger screen up to 4-inches, and the fixed models can come with screens as large as 7-inches.

Ensure the display allows you to read the screen in bright sunlight conditions and when wearing polarized sunglasses to prevent washout.

Touchscreen Functionality

The larger fixed GPS models come with touchscreen compatibility to enhance the user experience. The handhelds and portables don’t have this function. Get rid of the buttons and use the screen to navigate your PWC.

Connectivity

A marine GPS needs to offer you good connectivity to communicate with the Coast Guard and other vessels in your area. Most marine GPS models pick up several satellites, giving precise coordinates of your location and destination.

Most portable models also act as a VHF marine radio, putting you in touch with the USCG when you’re in an emergency. The top-rated models also offer Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. These features make it easy to share data with other users and when updating the device and your mapping software.

Best VHF Marine Radio Reviews: Complete Buyer’s Guide
Best VHF Marine Radio Reviews: Complete Buyer’s Guide

Warranty

Does your GS offer you a warranty on your purchase? The top brands include warranties ranging from one to three years, depending on the manufacturer and the model.

The warranty doesn’t protect you against wear-and-tear of the device, but it does offer you protection from manufacturing defaults. If you buy a lemon, send it back for a refund or replacement.

Price

GPS devices are expensive pieces of equipment. Most entry-level models start at around $250, while the fixed systems can fetch $500 or more. Look at the best options at that price point and choose the best model to fit your budget.

The price isn’t always indicative of the device’s performance and quality. So, make sure you review the GPS and match it to your needs. If you don’t fish, there’s no point in buying a GPS and fishfinder system with a transducer.

Jet Ski Accessories
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Jet Ski GPS Terminology

We put together this quick terminology guide for beginners. It gives you a better understanding of what you’re looking at when assessing a GPS.

GPS

GPS stands for “Global Positioning System.” Originally, GPS was a military application, but it spread into the commercial and recreational markets in the late 1990s. Since its launch in the recreational market, several leading brands have emerged as the top players in the market.

Chartplotter

A chartplotter integrates GPS navigation with charts. You can track your speed, direction, and location on the map, giving you an accurate view of your position at any time. Chartplotters let you plan your trip, waypoints, and fishing spots.

Fishfinder

The fishfinder modules use sonar to view the bottom of the reef or lake. The sonar waves bounce off the bottom and return to the transducer fitted under the skis hull.

CHIRP

CHIRP stands for “Compressed High-Intensity Radar Pulse.” CHIRP transmits longer pulses than conventional sonar, allowing for better bottom viewing and tracking of sea life in the water at any depth.

NMEA

This acronym stands for “National Marine Electronics Association.” This group designed the NMEA 2000 application, which is a code language your marine GPS uses to connect and communicate with other devices.

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Waypoints

The marine GPS allows you to save waypoints on your chartplotter software. Waypoints could be places you want to visit, fuel depots, fishing spots, etc. To set a waypoint, you touch the screen or use the toggle dial to find and fix the waypoint.

After setting the waypoint, all you have to do is click on it, and the GPS will prepare information to guide you to your destination. Ensure the GPS has functionality that changes your course to avoid hazards in the water.

After selecting the waypoint, your chartplotter will display a compass, guiding you to your destination. The GPS can estimate the total travel time between your current location and your destination based on your current speed.

Routes

All GPS models come with functionality for storing your routes. Similar to waypoints, the chartplotter tracks your location during your trip.

You can use that same route data on your next trip to the same destination. Click the route, and the GPS will start preparing the trip data.

Tracking

The marine GPS and chartplotter allow you to track the tides and time. The GPS will ask you to input the time and date during the initial setup, using that information to give you accurate tides and water conditions.

The tracking function also lets you check on the weather forecast in your area. The GPS syncs to NOAA data on weather tracking for accurate forecasting.

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Jet Ski GPS FAQs

Q: Do I need a fishfinder included with my GPS?

A: If you’re a keen angler, investing in a GPS/fishfinder combination is worth the extra money. The fishfinder works through SONAR, showing you the life on the reef or in the lake. You can arrive at your fishing spot and judge whether it’s going to be a productive day’s fishing or if the reef is quiet and you should move to another location.

Q: Is a chartplotter the same thing as a GPS?

A: A standalone GPS device will register your GPS coordinates in longitude and latitude. However, it only gives you your coordinates. The GPS requires the chartplotter functionality to place your GPS coordinates on a map.

Q: Does a GPS or chartplotter need a transducer?

A: No, you don’t have to install a transducer to access the GPS functions on your device. However, the fishfinder won’t work without the transducer installed. The transducer sends SONAR signals to the fishfinder module of the GPS, allowing you to see the shape of the bottom and the life on the reef or in the lake.

Q: Where can I buy the best jet ski GPS?

A: We recommend buying the best jet ski GPS from Amazon, the leading global e-tailer. Amazon has the best range of putters from leading brands. They offer fast, free shipping, and you get buyer protection on your order.


Jet Ski GPS – The Verdict

After reading through the reviews for the best jet ski GPS models,. You’re probably wondering which one is the right choice for your jet ski activities. We get it. It’s challenging to pick out one model from so many great options.

If you need some help making your decision, why not go with one of our top picks? We have a GPS for any jet ski and any budget.

  • The Best Overall Jet Ski GPS – Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 43cv
  • The Best Premium Jet Ski GPS – Garmin GPSMAP 86SC
  • The Best Budget Jet Ski GPS – Garmin Striker Plus 4
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John Sampson
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John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

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