Best Apps for Sailors 2023

That’s why we have compiled a list of the 15 best sailing apps in 2023, drawing from our extensive experience in sailing and watersports. Since 2021, we have been keeping track of the most valuable apps, and this year’s selection includes some new additions that we enjoy using ourselves.

What are the top sailing apps?

1. Boating by Navionics

Without a doubt, Navionics is the go-to navigation app! It offers clear, easy-to-read, and detailed charts. Additionally, it integrates other apps such as ActiveCaptain® boaters. With this app, you always have access to up-to-date nautical charts. It is affordable and works exceptionally well on tablets or iPads. Of course, you can also download it on your smartphone to have your GPS system handy on the boat. Don’t forget to download the latest weather and tide information and explore the app’s other features before losing connection at sea, ensuring you stay on course even offline. For more information about Navionics, see this article.

2. Windy

Windy is a fantastic weather app for all water sports enthusiasts! It provides local weather reports, accurate forecasts, a live wind map, information on wave heights, and much more.

3. Blue Water App

To secure a spot in the marina, users of the Blue Water App can easily and safely pay for their berth upon arrival without needing prior booking. This app provides access to one of Europe’s largest online marina payment platforms, offering comprehensive information about the harbors and facilities in your surroundings. Plan your journey in advance or on the spot with ease.

4. Boat Beacon

The last thing you want on your holiday is damage to your boat. Boat Beacon’s paid version offers real-time AIS and the ability to receive and transmit boat data for collision prevention, man overboard scenarios, and various navigation tools. The app will alert you for safety even when running in the background on your phone. It requires a phone signal to function properly. Boat Beacon is a true game-changer!

5. Predict Wind

As the name suggests, Predict Wind provides accurate wind predictions worldwide, whether you’re at sea or on inland waterways. The paid version is particularly useful for precise weather routing and departure planning.

6. Digital Yacht iAIS

You can add an AIS overlay to your phone or tablet plotter for boats equipped with a Bluetooth Digital Yacht AIS transceiver. This allows you to see, track, and identify other vessels. With the Digital Yacht iAIS, you’ll always know what’s happening around you on the water

7. Navily

8. At Tubber, we love the Navily app and want to tell you why! With this handy app, you can access a wealth of information about the best anchorages worldwide. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or just starting out, Navily provides everything you need to enhance your sailing experience.

With the Navily app, you can easily find the perfect anchorage. Browse through detailed descriptions, photos, and reviews from other sailors to find the ideal spot to drop anchor. You can find information about accessibility, level of protection, nearby facilities, and more. This allows you to make informed decisions and choose the most suitable anchorages.

What really sets the Navily app apart is its vibrant community of sailors. You can connect with other sailors, share experiences, and get valuable tips and advice. This social feature turns sailing into an activity and a great way to meet new people and make connections.

In summary, the Navily app is an indispensable tool for sailing enthusiasts. With its comprehensive information and lively community, it helps you make the most of your sailing adventures. Download the app today and discover why we at Tubber are so enthusiastic about Navily!

8. Marina Traffic

The ultimate global ship tracking app (note: the free version may not always provide the latest or satellite information). It’s ideal for tracking real-time locations and routes of ships and yachts, whether it’s your own or a friend’s. Additionally, Marine Traffic provides information about port conditions and expected boat arrival times.

9. Imray Tides Planner

While Navionics is helpful, the Imray Tides Planner provides even more information about tides. You can find details about minimum depths, sunset/sunrise times, and even currents in certain countries. The great thing about this app is that it has its own database with over 8,000 locations worldwide, so you don’t need an internet connection.

10. Anchor Alarm

Anchor Alarm keeps track of your GPS location so that you don’t drift away during the night while you’re sleeping peacefully. If you happen to move too far from the stored anchor point, an alarm will sound.

11. B&G Link/Link Pro app

With the B&G Link app, you can use your tablet or phone as a repeater, allowing you to duplicate any wirelessly connected screen from your boat on your smartphone. You can also access system settings to troubleshoot issues for boats equipped with newer versions of B&G equipment.

12. Spotify/Deezer

Stay in a good mood with your own music to enhance that vacation feeling. Subscribe to Spotify and download the app on your smartphone or tablet, so you can also enjoy it offline. It’s also a good idea to bring a Bluetooth speaker and possibly an aux cable to convert even older boat stereos into the latest audio platforms with fantastic playlists to entertain everyone!

13. Whatsapp

Use WhatsApp to make calls with friends or family and avoid expensive international calls. This way, you can stay in touch during your sailing holiday. The only requirement is a good Wi-Fi/internet connection.

14. Garmin Active Captain

This free all-in-one sailing app, Active Captain by Garmin, ensures seamless integration with boats equipped with Garmin systems. With smart notifications, you stay connected with the world, all visible on your chartplotter display for convenience. Plan your route precisely in advance and mark it with waypoints to make your boating journey easier.

15. Splitser

When sailing with a group of friends or family, using the “Splitser” app can be handy to easily divide and track expenses. This helpful app lets you easily record all incurred costs, such as groceries, fuel, or harbor fees. The app automatically calculates the total costs and indicates who should pay what.

So, those were the best apps for sailors. All apps are available for either Apple or Android. Follow the provided link, redirecting you to the App Store or the Google Play Store. For any questions, you can always reach out to the Tubber team.

Also, check out our articles on sailing packing lists!