6 Best Catamaran Chartplotter Mounts For Rough Seas
Navigate rough seas with confidence. We review the 6 best catamaran chartplotter mounts, focusing on stability, vibration dampening, and secure installation.
When you’re mid-channel and the swell starts building, the last thing you need is your chartplotter vibrating into illegibility or, worse, snapping off its mount. Navigating a catamaran in rough water demands gear that stays locked in place while remaining readable at a glance. Choosing the right mounting system is the difference between a controlled passage and a stressful scramble for your electronics.
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RAM Mounts Marine Grade Ball and Socket System
Connect RAM B size components with this durable, medium-length (3") double socket arm. Marine-grade aluminum construction and near-infinite adjustability ensure reliable performance.
RAM Mounts are the gold standard for versatility, relying on a rubberized ball-and-socket design that effectively absorbs high-frequency vibrations. When you’re dealing with the erratic motion of a multihull, this dampening is vital for keeping your screen steady.
I recommend these for sailors who need to adjust their viewing angle frequently throughout the day. Because they are modular, you can easily swap out components if you upgrade your display size later. If you prioritize flexibility over a fixed, rigid look, the RAM system is your best bet.
Scanstrut ROKK Adjustable Helm Pod Mounts
The ROKK series stands out for its "one-handed" adjustment capability, which is a massive plus when the sea state is anything but calm. You simply unlock the base, move the unit to your preferred angle, and snap it back into place.
These pods are incredibly robust and built to withstand the harsh UV and salt spray environments that destroy lesser mounts. They are ideal for helmsmen who want a clean, professional aesthetic without sacrificing the ability to tweak their display orientation on the fly. If you want a "set it and forget it" solution that still offers precision, this is the one.
Seaview Rail Pods for Stable Display Mounting
If your catamaran has limited console space, Seaview’s rail pods allow you to mount your electronics directly onto your cockpit railing. These are engineered with internal gaskets that prevent water ingress, ensuring your plotter stays dry even when taking green water over the bow.
These mounts are perfect for smaller catamarans where space is at a premium and you need to keep the helm clear. They provide an exceptionally rigid platform that resists the "wobble" often found in cheaper rail mounts. Choose these if you need to optimize your cockpit layout while maintaining a rock-solid viewing angle.
Edson Vision Series Marine Instrument Mounts
Edson is synonymous with heavy-duty marine hardware, and their Vision Series mounts reflect that heritage. These are essentially bulletproof, constructed from high-grade aluminum with a powder-coated finish designed for long-term exposure.
These mounts are not for the budget-conscious, but they are the clear choice for offshore cruisers who refuse to compromise on build quality. If your catamaran is your primary home and you plan on crossing oceans, the peace of mind provided by Edson’s structural integrity is worth every penny. For serious blue-water sailors, this is the industry benchmark.
NavPod PowerPod Pre-Cut Helm Housing Units
NavPod has mastered the art of the pre-cut housing, meaning you don’t have to spend hours hacking away at plastic to get your electronics to fit. Their PowerPod systems are designed to provide a secure, watertight seal around your plotter, protecting the delicate rear connections from moisture.
These are excellent for those who want a factory-finished look without the custom fabrication bill. Because they are specifically designed to house modern screens, they offer excellent cable management, which keeps your helm tidy and snag-free. If you want a professional, integrated look that protects your hardware, look no further.
Garhauer Marine Custom Stainless Steel Mounts
Garhauer is the go-to for sailors who prefer the strength and longevity of stainless steel over plastic or aluminum. Their mounts are often custom-fabricated to fit the specific geometry of your catamaran’s helm station.
These are the most durable option on this list, capable of handling the weight of larger, heavier displays without sagging over time. If you have a unique helm configuration and need a mounting solution that will outlast the boat itself, Garhauer is the gold standard. They are the definition of "buy once, cry once" engineering.
PYI Inc. Deck-Mounted Adjustable Arm Systems
PYI’s adjustable arms are designed for those who need their plotter to swing out of the way when it’s not in use. These arms are highly articulated, allowing you to pull your screen closer to the wheel or push it back to clear the walkway.
While they offer great convenience, they do introduce more moving parts, which means they require occasional maintenance to keep the joints tight. They are ideal for catamarans with tight cockpit layouts where you need maximum maneuverability. Use these if your priority is ergonomic comfort during long watches.
Taco Marine Fixed Angle Electronics Brackets
Sometimes the simplest solution is the most reliable. Taco Marine’s fixed brackets are designed for straightforward, permanent installations where you don’t need to adjust the angle once it’s set.
Because there are no moving parts to wear out or loosen, these provide the most stable platform possible in heavy seas. If you have a set viewing position that works for you, skip the fancy adjustment mechanisms and go with a fixed Taco bracket. It’s the most cost-effective and structurally sound choice for a dedicated helm.
B&G Zeus Series Specialized Mount Solutions
B&G’s proprietary mounts are specifically engineered to integrate with their Zeus chartplotter ecosystem. They are designed to minimize the footprint on your console while maximizing the structural support needed for high-end, heavy-duty displays.
These are the obvious choice if you are already running a B&G suite, as they often include integrated cable routing that fits the specific ports on the back of the unit. They provide a seamless, sleek look that keeps your helm looking like a high-tech command center. If you’re committed to the B&G ecosystem, don’t settle for generic mounts.
Understanding Vibration Dampening for Stability
When choosing a mount, you must consider the "lever effect." The further your screen is from the mounting point, the more vibration it will experience during a heavy pitch or roll.
- Mass Matters: Heavier displays require sturdier, more rigid mounts to prevent "screen bounce."
- Material Choice: Stainless steel offers the most rigidity, while rubber-ball systems offer the best vibration isolation.
- Cable Stress: Always ensure your cables have enough slack to move with the mount, preventing them from pulling on the display’s connectors.
Ultimately, your goal is to minimize the distance between the mount’s base and the screen’s center of gravity. A mount that is rock-solid at the dock might become a liability in a Force 7 gale if it isn’t properly braced. Don’t be afraid to add extra support struts if you find your setup is vibrating too much; it’s a small price for a clear, readable display when you need it most.
Investing in a high-quality mount is an investment in your safety and your peace of mind. Whether you prioritize the flexibility of a ball-and-socket system or the absolute rigidity of stainless steel, ensure your setup can handle the specific dynamics of your catamaran. Take the time to install it securely, and you’ll have a reliable navigation partner for years of offshore adventures.
