What is the difference between Raymarine's chartplotters and fishfinders?

Raymarine offers two distinct categories of marine electronics: chartplotters and fishfinders, each designed for specific purposes on the water. A chartplotter serves primarily as a navigation device, providing detailed maps and charts that enable users to plot their courses and monitor their position. These devices typically feature GPS functionality, allowing boaters to access real-time positioning data, waypoints, and navigation routes. Raymarine chartplotters also often come equipped with additional features such as AIS, radar integration, and various displays that can show marine weather, tides, and other crucial information essential for safe and efficient navigation. On the other hand, fishfinders are specialized devices that focus on detecting fish and underwater structures. They utilize sonar technology to send sound waves into the water, which then bounce back upon encountering objects, such as fish or the seafloor. The data collected is transformed into visual representations on the device's screen, enabling anglers to identify fish locations, depth, and bottom contours. Raymarine fishfinders can also come with advanced features like DownVision or SideVision, enhancing the ability to see what lies beneath the surface in greater detail. While these two device types can often be integrated and complement each other on a boat, the fundamental difference lies in their primary purposes: chartplotters for navigation and fishfinders for fishing. Users may find value in utilizing both devices for an optimal boating experience. For the latest information on available models and features, it is beneficial to visit Raymarine's official website.