Electronics for water sports

Embedded Electronics

On a boat, electronics primarily serve security: the VHF allows you to call for help and communicate with other vessels, the GPS and charts indicate the position and hazards, and the instruments measure speed and wind. It also serves comfort, with waterproof audio, and propulsion, with the quiet electric motors of small boats. All these devices must withstand humidity, salt, and shocks.

Other Water Sports

Water sports are also varied:

• Kayaks and Canoes.
• Stand Up Paddle.
• Inflatable Boats.
• Surf and Bodyboard.
• Wet Suits.
• Accessories.

All water sports are brought together on the water sports page.

Communicating and Navigating

The VHF fixed needs a antenna, like the Shakespeare made of stainless steel, placed as high as possible, since the range depends on its height; the pivoting mount allows you to lower it. The portable VHF, like the Standard Horizon, runs on battery: a lithium replacement battery ensures that it remains usable in an emergency. The chart Navionics, inserted into a chart plotter, displays depths and hazards of the lakes and rivers in the Alps. The Nasa instruments, speed sensor with no hull drilling and wind vane, inform the sailor about their speed and wind direction.

Electric Motors and Comfort

The electric motor, like the Intex for inflatable boats or the Aqua Marina BlueDrive, which attaches underneath a stand up paddle or kayak, propels quietly and without smell: it is suitable for lakes where thermal motors are banned and for fishing, so as not to scare the fish. In France, no boating license is required for low-power motors. The RAM Mounts mount holds a screen or a phone on the rail of a kayak. The Fusion speakers, waterproof and designed for marine use, play music on board.

Good Deals

Good deals can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and the items shipped in 24h are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: the Black Friday in late autumn, the end-of-year holidays, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by the summer sales and back-to-school.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fixed VHF or portable: which one to choose?

The fixed VHF, more powerful and connected to a mast-top antenna, has a longer range. The portable VHF, autonomous and waterproof, serves as a backup or is sufficient for coastal navigation in a small vessel.

What is a Navionics chart used for?

Loaded onto a compatible chart plotter, it displays depths, obstacles, and landmarks of lakes and rivers. It makes navigation easier and helps fishermen locate drop-offs and shallow areas.

Electric or thermal motor for a small boat?

The electric motor, silent and odourless, is suitable for kayaks, tenders, and small boats on lakes, often where thermal engines are prohibited. The thermal motor provides more autonomy and power at sea.

What are a speed sensor and a wind vane used for?

The speed sensor measures the boat's speed on the water, while the wind vane indicates the wind direction. Together, they help the sailor adjust their sails and optimise their route.

Why a waterproof sound system on board?

Marine audio resists spray, humidity, and UV rays, unlike a standard speaker. Waterproof speakers play music while anchored without fear of corrosion.