The Garmin ActiveCaptain® app is a free, innovative application designed to seamlessly connect your compatible mobile device with Garmin’s range of chartplotters, charts, maps, and the boating community. Whether you’re into cruising, fishing, sailing, or diving, this all-in-one app elevates your time on the water by offering powerful connectivity and convenience.

By pairing the app with your Garmin chartplotter, you can wirelessly transfer and access a variety of navigational data such as charts, maps, routes, and waypoints. Additionally, the app enables software updates, community feedback, and offers the option to track and monitor your boat remotely when used with the OnDeck™ hub (sold separately). It’s important to note that the ActiveCaptain® app is primarily designed for Garmin chartplotter owners and is not intended to serve as a standalone navigation solution.

This app transforms your boating experience by integrating navigation, planning, and community features, making it a must-have companion for modern boaters seeking to optimize their on-water adventures.

ONECHART™

The ONECHART™ feature provides access to the latest Garmin Navionics+™ and Navionics Vision+™ cartography, offering a Navionics®-styled appearance with advanced Auto Guidance+™ technology. Subscribers benefit from a one-year update service, ensuring that charts are current, detailed, and accurate. These charts are available for North America and Europe, with expansion to other regions soon.

The app allows users to purchase new-generation and legacy BlueChart® g3 charts directly from their mobile device, which can then be uploaded to your Garmin vessel’s chartplotter. The integration of Garmin and Navionics data results in exceptional coverage, clarity, and detail. Additionally, premium features such as NOAA raster cartography can be downloaded for free via the ActiveCaptain app. More information on marine maps is available at Garmin.com/marinemaps.

PLAN A TRIP

This feature enables boaters to plan their trips or scout new fishing spots before heading out on the water. Once planned, routes and waypoints can be easily transferred to your chartplotter for a seamless navigation experience during your journey.

USER DATA SYNC

The app automatically backs up and synchronizes your personal data, ensuring your waypoints and routes are safe and up-to-date across your devices.

ACTIVE CAPTAIN COMMUNITY

Join a vibrant community of boaters to access real-time feedback on marinas, boat ramps, and other points of interest. You can read reviews, view ratings, and explore pictures to make informed decisions, or contribute your own POI data, reviews, and photos from your mobile device.

CONTROL YOUR CHARTPLOTTER

The built-in Helm™ feature allows you to view and control compatible chartplotters remotely from your smartphone or tablet—even when someone else is at the helm. Please note that this feature is not compatible with ECHOMAP series chartplotters.

EASY SOFTWARE UPDATES

Receive notifications about software updates via the app and perform wireless updates to keep your Garmin devices current with the latest features and improvements.

ONDECK™ HUB

With the OnDeck™ system, users can monitor and control switches on their boat remotely. Receive text alerts for events such as doors opening or bilge pumps running, giving you peace of mind regardless of your location.

GARMIN QUICKDRAW™ COMMUNITY

Download high-definition (HD) contour maps shared by fellow boaters, or upload your own QuickDraw™ Contours data to contribute to the community’s mapping resources. This feature significantly enhances your navigational precision and fishing success.

SMART NOTIFICATIONS

Connect your mobile device to your chartplotter and enable smart notifications. Receive calls, texts, and app alerts directly on your chartplotter display, allowing you to stay connected without risking safety by using your phone at sea.

Whether you're an experienced sailor or a casual boater, Garmin ActiveCaptain® enhances your on-water experience with seamless connectivity, insightful community feedback, and powerful planning tools. Its user-friendly interface makes setup straightforward, allowing you to quickly access vital features that improve safety, navigation, and enjoyment.

The app’s integration with Garmin’s advanced mapping solutions like Navionics+™ and Vision+™ ensures detailed, up-to-date charts that are essential for safe navigation. Plus, the ability to control your chartplotter remotely, monitor your vessel using the OnDeck™ hub, and keep your data synchronized makes Garmin ActiveCaptain® a comprehensive marine app for every type of boater. Give it a try and experience how this innovative app can transform your time on the water into a safer, more connected adventure.