[Jon D]

Rippy

I am a believer in real time graphical representation of navigation info. Have been using chart plotters and/or PC based systems for years. They make it much easier to keep track of where you are and what's ahead once you understand how to use them. They both have advantages and disadvantages IMHO.

Given that you are cruising full time my inclination would be to go laptop navigation using the Furuno. In fact I am adding that unit [supplementing an old chartplotter - don't want to spend the money to replace but want a newer GPS engine] to my boat for just that purpose. Fix mounted WAAS GPS - almost a black box that provides NEMA output to the laptop.

On the laptop you can run one of several programs depending on how many features and functions you want. Raster/vector charts of the US are now free [note: only one format and not all programs can run the native format seamlessly]. This gives you an inexpensive way to get most US charts. I find the PC much easier to use than chartplotters.

Advantage of the chart plotter is you can easily mount it on deck as they are all weatherproof. Disadvantage is you have to by chips with charts and plotting routes etc can be time consuming. On the other hand if you have the chip the plotter will easily show exactly where you are.

As far as powering the PC goes you can run it off a small inverter [250 watt or so] or can get the DC power converter as mentioned above.