How to Use a Garmin Chartplotter

A Garmin chartplotter is useful at sea.

Garmin chartplotters are marine navigation systems that use GPS satellites and display electronic maritime charts. The combination allows you to keep track of your boat's precise location and to understand the marine environment it is in, both above and below the water. Chartplotters come with a number of features, depending on the model, but all have the same basic functions.

Instructions

Navigating to a Point on the Chart

1. Highlight "Charts" on the home screen using the "Rocker" key and then press "Select."

2. Highlight "Navigation Chart" and press "Select."

3. Scroll to a point on the map using the "Rocker" key and press "Select."

4. Highlight "Navigate To" and press "Select."

5. Highlight "Go To" and press "Select." A colored line will appear on the screen for you to follow to your destination.

Navigating Using "Where to?"

1. Highlight "Where To?" on the home screen and press "Select."

2. Scroll through the categories on the "Where To?" screen using the "Rocker" key. Choose from "Waypoints," "Routes," "Tracks" or "Offshore Services."

3. Use the "Rocker" key to scroll through the category menu, which includes "Destinations," "Waypoints," "Routes" or "Tracks". Press "Select."

4. Scroll through the list of sub-categories if presented. For instance, "Offshore Services" produces a list including "Fuel," "Repairs," "Grocery," "Restrooms," "Ramps," "Slips and Mooring" and "All Services." Press "Select " once your choice is highlighted.

5. Highlight "Navigate To" and then press "Select."

6. Highlight "Go To" for a line on the map to your destination or "Route To" for a list of turn-by-turn instructions or to add other stops. Press "Select." Follow the line on the screen.

References

• Natural Resources: Garmin GPS Guide For Beginners
• Garmin: GPSMAP 400/500 Series Owner's Manual
• Garmin: GPSMAP 6000/7000 Series Owner's Manual