Top 6 Alternatives to OpenCPN – Navigate the Seas with these Software Programs

OpenCPN is a well-known open-source navigation software that is used by both professional and recreational sailors worldwide. It is designed to help sailors navigate the seas by providing them with accurate charts, reports, and other relevant information. Despite its popularity, however, OpenCPN may not be the most suitable navigation software for everyone. Perhaps you’re looking for something with more features, more sophisticated algorithms, or better ease-of-use. In this article, we’ll be highlighting six software alternatives to OpenCPN that might meet your needs better. Before we dive into that, though, let’s first talk about why you need navigation software.

As sailors, we all know how important it is to have the right tools and equipment when navigating the seas. It’s the difference between knowing your way and getting lost at sea. Having proper navigation software is essential for sailors who need to plan routes, check weather reports, and monitor their vessel’s performance. Navigation software can also help sailors calculate distances, monitor speed, and keep track of their position on the map.

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What is OpenCPN?

OpenCPN is a free navigation software that is designed to run on both Windows, Mac, and Linux systems. It provides sailors with a wide range of features, including the ability to display various charts, offer waypoint navigation, and monitor AIS targets. OpenCPN is an open-source software that is constantly being updated with new features and chart data. The software’s interface is user-friendly, with several options for customizing your display preferences.

Top Alternatives to OpenCPN

Best Alternative #1: SeaClear

SeaClear is a navigation software that is free to use for Windows systems. It features a straightforward user interface and provides sailors with all the essential tools they need to navigate the seas. The software supports a wide range of chart formats, including BSB v3/v4, S57, and S63. It also allows for vessel tracking, route planning, and waypoint management. SeaClear is compatible with GPS devices and can integrate with AIS for more advanced monitoring.

Pros:

• A wide range of chart formats supported
• User-friendly interface
• Integration with GPS devices and AIS

Cons:

• Not compatible with Mac or Linux
• May lack some of the advanced features present in OpenCPN

Best Alternative #2: TimeZero

TimeZero is a professional-grade navigation software that offers advanced features for experienced sailors. It features a 3D interface that provides a realistic view of the current sailing conditions. The software supports multiple chart formats and allows for the integration of AIS and GPS devices. Its advanced navigation algorithms allow sailors to calculate the best routes and avoid areas with adverse weather conditions.

Pros:

• Advanced features for experienced sailors
• 3D interface for a realistic view of sailing conditions
• AIS and GPS integration

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other navigation software
• May have a steeper learning curve

Best Alternative #3: Navionics

Navionics is a popular navigation software used by recreational sailors worldwide. It features a user-friendly interface that provides access to a wide range of charts and maps. The software supports features such as route planning, AIS tracking, and weather reports. Navionics is also available as a mobile app, making it easy for sailors to access its features on the go.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• Wide range of charts and maps
• Available as a mobile app

Cons:

• May lack some of the advanced features present in other navigation software
• Reliance on mobile device GPS may cause battery drainage or inaccurate readings

Best Alternative #4: MaxSea

MaxSea is a navigation software that is designed for both pleasure and professional sailing. It features a cutting-edge interface that displays charts and maps in real-time 3D. The software supports advanced features such as AIS tracking, weather reporting, and route planning. MaxSea also allows sailors to monitor vessel performance and can integrate with various GPS devices.

Pros:

• Cutting-edge interface with 3D maps and charts
• Advanced features for experienced sailors
• GPS device integration

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other navigation software
• Can be complicated to use for beginners

Best Alternative #5: PolarView

PolarView is a navigation software designed for both Windows and Mac systems. It offers a wide range of features, including AIS tracking, weather reports, and route planning. The software also provides support for various chart formats, making it a versatile alternative to OpenCPN.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• Supports a wide range of chart formats
• Versatile range of features

Cons:

• May not have some of the advanced features present in other navigation software
• Compatibility issues with some GPS devices

Best Alternative #6: GPS Trackmaker

GPS Trackmaker is a navigation software that comes in both free and paid versions. It offers beginner-friendly features such as route planning, waypoint navigation, and GPS tracking. The software also supports various chart formats and can integrate with Google Maps for a more comprehensive display.

Pros:

• Beginner-friendly interface
• Free version available
• Integration with Google Maps

Cons:

• May not have some of the advanced features present in other navigation software
• Compatibility issues with some GPS devices

Comprehensive Comparison of Each Software

Our Thoughts on OpenCPN

OpenCPN remains a reliable navigation software for both novice and professional sailors and comes with essential features to navigate the seas smoothly. However, its user interface compared to other new software is outdated and may lack the display needed by advanced sailors. OpenCPN also does not provide a free trial’s flexibility to experience the software before committing fully.

FAQs about OpenCPN

Q1: Is OpenCPN available for MacOS?

A: Yes, OpenCPN is available for MacOS.

Q2: Can I integrate OpenCPN with my AIS system?

A: Yes, OpenCPN can integrate with AIS for vessel monitoring.

Q3: Is OpenCPN compatible with GPS devices?

A: Yes, OpenCPN is compatible with GPS devices.

Q4: Does OpenCPN offer a free trial?

A: No, OpenCPN does not offer a free trial.

Q5: Can I use OpenCPN on Linux systems?

A: Yes, OpenCPN is available for Linux in addition to Windows and MacOS.

In Conclusion

Choosing the right navigation software is essential for sailors, and the software should have the suitable features that ensure a successful sail. OpenCPN remains a reliable, stable navigation software. However, for experienced sailors, OpenCPN may not provide the versatility and advanced features that are present in other alternatives.
If you are looking for sophisticated features that assist in sailing, TimeZero and MaxSea are exciting options with advanced navigation algorithms, but their prices may be prohibitive.
If you’re looking for beginner-friendly navigation software with a free trial, SeaClear and GPS Trackmaker are solid alternatives. PolarView provides easy-to-use navigation software that supports various chart formats at a reasonable cost. Navionics is a popular navigation software with a user-friendly interface that comes as a mobile app to complement your sailing experience.