Garmin Debuts 360-Camera System

Aimed at eliminating blind spots, Garmin’s Surround View could change docking as we know it.

By JEFF MOSER, https://www.powerandmotoryacht.com/

Garmin has introduced Surround View, a system that utilizes a half-dozen high-definition cameras mounted on a vessel for a 360-degree, bird’s-eye view from the helm via a compatible Garmin multifunction display.

“Our innovative Surround View brings the comforts and conveniences our customers rely on in their vehicles to the helm of their yacht to help captains see as much of their environment as possible for easier maneuvering on the water,” said vice president of global consumer sales Dan Bartel in a statement. “Until now, no other marine camera technology has offered a true 360-degree bird’s-eye view, a vantage point that can help reduce the stress of docking and navigating marinas, narrow causeways and busy channels by giving captains a live look at their surroundings.”

To accomplish this, the six, 1080p cameras will be placed as follows: one forward-looking camera at the bow, one rear-looking camera on the aft and two on each side of the vessel. The low-profile cameras can be OEM-installed, with through-hull mounting that matches functionality with clean aesthetics.

At the helm, captains have the option of using the bird’s-eye image view and can zoom in and pan around from any of the six cameras.

The augmented reality features include Visual Bumper, an indicator at a user-set distance that allows the helmsman when they approach non-water objects like quays and pilings; and Distance Markers, which work like backup cameras in an automobile to provide visual cues which help determine distance.

A compatible Garmin chartplotter or MFD (GPSMAP 8400/8600, GPSMAP 7x3/9x3/12x3 series) or the Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit System is required for usage.

Garmin Surround View Camera System will make its debut at this week’s Cannes Yachting Festival and will be seen stateside at the Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show in late October 2021.