Every Pikmeer cruiser is unique in its own way. And in some respects, our Pikmeer cruisers are also ultra-modern. This is especially true when it comes to upgrades for cruiser accessories. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the most popular accessories that, in our opinion, are indispensable!
The chartplotter is the ultimate GPS system for boats. It lets you always know where you are on the water. You can also easily plan a route using the chartplotter. If the chartplotter has a Wi-Fi connection, you can also load the charts onto your smartphone or iPad. It’s also possible to download maps yourself at home and transfer them to the chartplotter. At Pikmeerkruiser, we install Raymarine chartplotters and multifunction displays in the boat.
Take advantage of the various features of a Raymarine chartplotter. Not only does it come equipped with an excellent GPS, but it also offers the option to install a sonar. You’ll know exactly how deep the water is and, what’s more, the composition of the seabed. In addition, a sonar is ideal for fishing enthusiasts. The chartplotter from Raymarine is easy to use thanks to a sharp and clear display that is easy to read even in daylight.
With a SMART TV on your boat, you can enjoy the same features you have at home—but on the water. At Pikmeerkruiser, you can have a SMART TV installed. We can also equip it with a Digitenne internet dongle, which allows you to receive all Dutch channels if you decide to sail only in the Netherlands.
For international travel, we recommend a satellite dish. The advantage of a satellite dish is that it provides coverage everywhere, so you won’t have to miss your favorite shows or channels while traveling.
An Automatic Identification System (AIS for short) is a system that uses transponder technology to enhance maritime safety at sea and on inland waterways. So it’s really handy to have this installed on the Pikmeerkruiser.
An AIS is designed to provide an overview and information by allowing these vessels to “communicate” with one another, so to speak. It also allows for interaction with shore-based authorities. An AIS transmitter on a vessel broadcasts, at regular intervals, its position, course, speed, and MMSI (the unique maritime identification number). A receiver decodes these signals and typically displays them on a monitor or radar screen. The range is about thirty to forty kilometers. The system was introduced for shipping in 2003.
This allows you to know exactly where other vessels are located nearby. Since you can see the vessel’s name or MMSI, you can make a direct call to it. This makes communication with other vessels much easier.
The Raymarine AIS700 is a Class B Automatic Identification System (AIS) transceiver designed for use with Raymarine multifunction navigation display systems.
An autopilot is ideal for maintaining a steady course in light to moderate weather conditions. The main advantage of this type of device is that it does not get tired, lose concentration, or lose focus while sailing. By using an autopilot, you can leave the helm unattended while sailing. Another advantage is that you save more fuel while sailing, since the course is maintained more consistently—in the case of a motorboat.
Typical autopilot systems consist of three main components: a course computer/processor, a drive mechanism, and a control unit. The drive mechanism ensures that the rudder maintains the course.
Operating the autopilot is very simple. You plot your course and sail along it for a few seconds. Then you press AUTO, and the autopilot takes over. It’s really easy, isn’t it?
What makes Raymarine’s autopilots unique is the advanced technology that Raymarine uses. This technology was developed in collaboration with its parent company, FLIR, which specializes in advanced electronic equipment.
