Affordable Boat-Security Systems

Monitoring your boat from afar is easier than ever, thanks to increasingly affordable and compact app-based systems that update you on the condition and location of your unattended boat, no matter how many miles separate you from your vessel. 

All it takes is a few clicks on your mobile phone to get an update on your boat’s vital signs, and most will immediately alert you through the app should a sensor—such as a motion detector or a high-bilge-water sensor—be triggered, giving you time to get to your boat or call someone close by to check it out.

Systems can also send you a reminder about scheduled maintenance to keep your boat in top working order. Not only are prices decreasing, but hardware is increasingly compact and uses wireless sensors that are easy to install. Here are examples such systems.

The Skyhawk Oversea system is affordable and simple to install because all of the components are battery powered. Courtesy Oversea BUY NOW Skyhawk Oversea

Practical aboard just about any size boat, the Skyhawk Oversea system is affordable and simple to install because all of the components are battery powered. At the heart of Skyhawk Oversea is a compact wireless hub that provides the location of the boat on demand and monitors vessel bearing to detect movement using the free Oversea app on a mobile device from just about anywhere. 

Oversea offers a network of wireless sensors to monitor bilge-pump activity, battery voltage, shore power, temperature, humidity, water, motion, door entry and sound (so you know if someone is clambering about on your boat). 

As indicated earlier, the sensors, as well as the hub, are all self-­powered by standard replaceable batteries for continuous year-round monitoring with no drain on the boat’s batteries or any special onboard wiring. All alerts and data come to the Oversea app via a cellular network. Starting at $299.99 for the hub only, monthly cellular service subscription starts at $14.99 for the hub only with ­additional plans available; ­oversea.boats.

Read Next: How To Install A Boat Security System

The Siren 3 ­Connected Boat System is designed for small to ­midsize outboard-powered boats. Courtesy Siren Marine BUY NOW Siren 3 Connected Boat System

The compact and ­affordable new Siren 3 ­Connected Boat System security, monitoring, control and maintenance system is designed for small to ­midsize outboard-­powered boats, such as runabouts, pontoon boats, bass boats, walleye boats, bay boats, flats skiffs, and more. Boaters use the free ­Siren Connected Boat app to confirm and track the boat’s ­location and monitor systems such as battery status, bilge-­water level, bilge-pump activity, and much more. 

Siren 3 supports up to six wireless sensors through SirenWave, a proprietary communication protocol that provides a fast, reliable and secure connection. It also features a new internal-­antenna design, which reduces the amount of space needed on smaller boats. Siren 3 features built-in NMEA-2000 connectivity that enables remote digital switching for the ability to turn on cabin lights, switch on air conditioning, or spool up a gyrostabilizer—to name just a few ­features—from virtually ­anywhere and at any time. 

Siren 3 also connects with the Yamaha CommandLink network on Yamaha mechanical engines from 300 hp up, and can provide reminders to owners regarding scheduled maintenance. Starting at $299 for the hardware, with an annual cellular service subscription starting at $225; sirenmarine.com.

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