Boating is an unmatched adventure – whether you’re coasting along the shoreline, fishing in a secluded cove, or sailing under a starry sky. However, as much as we love it, boating can present challenges. From packing the right gear to dealing with erratic weather and navigating shifting tides, there are plenty of details to consider.

Fortunately, technology has got our backs with mobile apps that make the boating experience both safer and more enjoyable.

We’ve rounded up the top apps for boating you should download before your next adventure. From navigation to weather to safety, these apps have got you covered. So without further ado, here are our top picks:

Windy.com

When planning the perfect route, you need to know the wind conditions. The Windy.com app provides detailed weather forecasts and real-time wind data, so you can plan your trip and adjust your sails accordingly. It gives you access to more than 50 weather maps and tools, including wind, temperature, waves, clouds, and solar activity.

Download for iOS or Android.

Wavve

Wavve Boating is a user-friendly app that simplifies marine GPS navigation. It offers customizable nautical charts, community-shared points of interest, tidal information, and weather forecasts so you can find the best spots (and avoid the bad ones). Wavve helps you maximize your time on the water so you can navigate confidently, find friends, and explore new places.

Download for iOS or Android.

MarineTraffic

Track commercial and recreational vessels in near real-time, so you can avoid busy shipping lanes and other hazards. MarineTraffic uses the largest network of land-based AIS (automatic identification system) receivers to give you details about large boats like their position, speed, direction, country of origin, type, and more. Use this while on the water to gauge “traffic” in your area, or to simply identify and learn more about passing ships. Only vessels with AIS equipment on board will be displayed in the app.

Download for iOS or Android.

My Tide Times

If you spend any time on the water, a tide charts app will surely come in handy. My Tide Times provides up-to-date information on tides, currents, and water levels at locations around the world. With this app, you can easily plan your boating excursions based on the latest tide forecasts, ensuring you’re always prepared for changes in water levels and currents. Whether you’re fishing, kayaking, or surfing, this app helps you make the most of your time on the water.

Download for iOS or Android.

Knots 3D

Knot-tying can be a daunting task for even the most experienced boaters. But with Knots 3D, you can learn over 175 unique knots with ease, including the most difficult ones. Browse by category or search by name, synonym, or ABoK #, and save your favorite knots for quick review. This app is especially helpful for teaching beginners the ropes, allowing them to learn at their own pace and feel confident on board.

Download for iOS or Android.

Packup

Worried about leaving something behind once you leave the dock? Packup helps you keep track of your gear and supplies, so you never forget anything when you head out on the water. You can create custom packing lists and collaborate with your trip members so you don’t sail away without a critical piece of gear.

Download for iOS or Android.

Dockwa

Dockwa simplifies the process of reserving and managing boat slips at marinas, yacht clubs, and boatyards. Easily search for available marinas, view amenities and services, and make reservations from your mobile device. The app streamlines communication by letting you message marinas directly, making it easy to coordinate arrival times and special requests.

Download for iOS or Android.

Navionics

Navionics is a comprehensive boating app that provides real-time navigation, detailed charts and maps, weather forecasts, and community-based content sharing. The app is designed to help boaters navigate safely and easily while on the water, with features such as automatic routing, depth data, and the ability to save and share routes.

Download for iOS or Android.

BRNKL

We couldn’t finish our list of best boating apps without mentioning our own app, BRNKL. We may be biased, but we truly believe that our app deserves a spot on the list! BRNKL is like having a virtual security guard for your boat. It allows you to monitor your boat’s status including battery levels, bilge pump activity, location, and more, all from your smartphone. Security accessories like cameras and motion sensors can be added to protect your boat from unwanted visitors. We’re passionate about helping you keep your boat, people and equipment safe. Note: BRNKL hardware required for use. 

Download for iOS or Android.

You’re ready to explore!

So there you have it, our top boating apps! With these apps, you can enhance your boating experience and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip every time. Download them today and start exploring!

P.S. What apps did we miss? Send us a tweet to fill us in on your top boating apps that we should try.