MasterCraft Boat Holdings has announced a groundbreaking integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into its Crest and Balise pontoon boats. This innovation brings the familiar infotainment experience from cars to the water, offering boaters a seamless and modern navigation system.
The new feature, set to launch next month on 2027 models, includes the Savvy Navvy app, which provides detailed nautical charts, smart routing, marina locations, and real-time boat traffic information. This integration marks a significant step forward in marine navigation technology, making it easier for boaters to plan and execute their trips.
Seamless Navigation and Infotainment
The Savvy Navvy app offers a range of features designed to enhance the boating experience. Boaters can access 2D and 3D charts plot routes, and search for marinas, harbors, and anchorages. The app also provides live ETA speed, and distance information, as well as nearby boat traffic and live location sharing.
Jelte Liebrand, CEO of Savvy Navvy, expressed enthusiasm about the integration: “Boaters have been asking for a modern infotainment system for years. Plan your trip on the couch, step aboard, and it is already at the helm. No complicated ways to synchronise things; it just works.”
Compatibility and Availability
All new Balise and Crest Conquest and Caribbean models will come standard with CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The helm displays on these models will feature Savvy Navvy as the default navigation app. Boaters can easily link their phones via a wired connection or Bluetooth to access the app’s features.
Customers who purchase these boats will also receive access to Savvy Navvy Premium unlocking additional features. The app is now available for both iOS and Android devices, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Expanding Beyond New Boats
Savvy Navvy has also announced that its app is compatible with any marine head units not just those in new boats. This means that boaters with older models can also benefit from the app’s features by installing compatible displays. Crest and Balise are the first brands to offer Savvy Navvy as a standard feature on their 2027 models.
The new app was showcased during Crest Marine’s annual dealer meeting, where dealers had the opportunity to experience the integration firsthand through on-water demonstrations. This event highlighted the capabilities and customer benefits of the new system.
MasterCraft Boat Holdings, headquartered in Vonore, TN, is a leading innovator in recreational powerboats. The company’s brands, including MasterCraft, Crest, Balise, Chaparral, and Robalo, are known for their quality and innovation. This latest integration of CarPlay and Android Auto further solidifies MasterCraft’s commitment to enhancing the boating experience.
