Article by Pat Schrawder
MARINE ELECTRONICS WHAT’S AHEAD FOR 2009?
As the 2009 season approaches, this is a good time to reflect on what can be expected for this year’s boating when it comes to electronics. Has the economic slowdown had a discernable impact? How have manufacturers responded to it? What advice is there for you and your coming season of boating?
There can be no doubt that the boating industry has taken some “hits” as a result of the general economy. It actually started last year with the major increase in gas prices. This year, gas is a virtual bargain by comparison. However, layoffs and uncertainty about the markets have caused both boaters and manufacturers to sit up and take notice. But Americans by our very nature are an optimistic group and deal with adversity in many positive ways.
Manufacturers have responded in measured fashion. They have not introduced a huge number of new products this season and certainly little or none new technology. Rather, they have spent their research and development funds to improve existing products in various ways. LCD screens have improved for daylight viewing and chart companies have made the necessary changes in charting areas and/or details. By and large, however, the major manufacturers have held the line with the products they made last year.
On the positive side for the consumer is the fact that many manufacturers are running promotional sales and special rebates or pricing. That, coupled with the product stability, makes this season the perfect time to buy. If you have contemplated buying a new boat but have had to postpone that purchase or you have been waiting for the right time to upgrade your current equipment, that time has come.
Make a list of the marine equipment on your boat and its date of purchase. At the bottom of the list, put any items that you would like to add for the first time. Next, think about your particular boating patterns and what items are the most important for you to have. In other words, do you just ride around in the bay a lot or do you go offshore and, if so, how far? If you are in the first category, a good fishfinder able to read shallow water depths is critical. If you go offshore, your most important item will be a good navigation aide in the form of a GPS and possible chart plotter. After all, you need to know how to get back home. Radar to show you the way through fog and/or to avoid storms can give great peace of mind. One way to save money is an autopilot to steer you on a straight course saving fuel and time.
Once you have made your list, take each item of existing equipment and turn it on to see if it still works properly. Think about the times you have used it. Was it reliable and were you able to operate it well or did you find it too hard to use? How old is it? It may be past the time of finding replacement parts. How important is it to your boating needs? Once you have done this, rearrange your list prioritizing the items most justified for replacement or purchase. If you are putting off buying a new boat or engines, upgrading your electronics can make this year’s boating a lot safer and more enjoyable. Then look for those sales and feel good about your purchase.
One note of caution is required here. Whenever the economy slows down, there is a “weeding out” process of smaller, less funded companies. Therefore, any new purchase would be best made with one of the long time established companies.
Pat Schrawder and her husband Larry are owners of L&L Marine Electronics on Golf Course Road in West Ocean City.