Useful Sailing Apps To Try – As Recommended By Sailors

Introduction

When it comes to sailing, having the right tools and information at your fingertips can make all the difference. And in today’s digital age, there are plenty of sailing apps available that can enhance your sailing experience and help you navigate the waters with confidence.

From weather forecasting and navigation to regatta tracking and boat performance analysis, these apps provide a wide range of features that can be invaluable for sailors of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a beginner, having access to the right information can enhance your safety, improve your performance, and add convenience to your sailing adventures.

In this article, we will be exploring some of the most useful sailing apps that have been recommended by sailors. These apps have been carefully selected based on their functionality, user reviews, and their ability to deliver accurate and reliable information.

From providing real-time weather updates to helping you plan your routes, these apps can greatly enhance your sailing experience. So, let’s dive in and discover the sailing apps that every sailor should consider having on their smartphone or tablet.

Windy

Windy is a popular sailing app that offers comprehensive weather forecasting and provides detailed information on wind, waves, and other meteorological data. With its user-friendly interface and powerful features, Windy has become a favorite among sailors around the world.

One of the standout features of Windy is its interactive map, which allows users to visualize weather patterns and observe real-time wind and wave conditions. By utilizing advanced weather models and satellite data, Windy delivers highly accurate and up-to-date information to help sailors plan their routes effectively.

Whether you’re planning a long-distance voyage or enjoying a day sail, Windy provides a wealth of information, including wind speed and direction, wave height, air temperature, and much more. This allows sailors to make informed decisions about their sailing activity and ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience on the water.

One of the unique features of Windy is its ability to display multiple layers of weather data, such as cloud cover, rain, and temperature. This helps sailors get a comprehensive understanding of the weather conditions in a specific area and adjust their plans accordingly.

In addition to its weather forecasting capabilities, Windy also offers other useful features like tide information, which is essential for planning navigation in coastal areas. The app also allows users to save favorite locations, set custom notifications for specific weather conditions, and share weather data with other sailors.

Available on both iOS and Android platforms, Windy has a free version with basic features, as well as a premium version that offers additional features like weather radar and longer forecast range. Whether you’re a recreational sailor or a seasoned racer, Windy is a must-have app for accurate weather forecasting and optimal route planning.

Navionics Boating

Navionics Boating is a comprehensive navigation app that provides sailors with detailed charts and maps for efficient and safe navigation. With its extensive collection of charts, advanced features, and user-friendly interface, Navionics Boating has become a staple for sailors seeking reliable navigation assistance.

One of the key features of Navionics Boating is its extensive library of marine charts, which cover a wide range of locations around the world. These charts provide detailed information on water depth, coastal features, navigational aids, and more, allowing sailors to plan their routes with precision.

The app utilizes GPS technology to track and display the user’s current location on the chart, making it easy to stay on course and avoid hazards. It also offers real-time updates on tidal information, currents, and weather conditions, giving sailors the necessary information to make informed decisions while on the water.

Navionics Boating incorporates advanced navigation features such as route planning, which allows sailors to create and save detailed routes on the app’s chart. It also supports automatic routing, which suggests the most efficient course based on the vessel’s size, draft, and speed. This feature is particularly helpful for those navigating unfamiliar waters.

Another useful feature of Navionics Boating is its ability to integrate with other external devices, such as AIS (Automatic Identification System), sonar, and radar. This allows sailors to receive real-time information about nearby vessels, underwater features, and weather conditions, further enhancing their situational awareness.

Navionics Boating is available for both iOS and Android devices, with a variety of subscription options to suit different needs. The app offers a free version with basic features, as well as premium subscriptions that unlock additional functions such as advanced chart updates and navigation tools.

Whether you’re planning coastal cruising, offshore voyages, or even a fishing trip, Navionics Boating is an essential app to have on board. With its comprehensive charts, advanced navigation features, and real-time updates, Navionics Boating is a reliable companion for any sailor.

PredictWind

PredictWind is a powerful sailing app that provides highly accurate weather forecasts and routing information. With its advanced technology and comprehensive data analysis, PredictWind has become a trusted choice for sailors looking for precise weather predictions.

One of the standout features of PredictWind is its unique weather models that combine multiple sources of data, including global forecast models and real-time observations. This allows the app to deliver highly accurate, hyper-localized weather forecasts tailored specifically for sailors.

With PredictWind, sailors can access detailed information on wind speed, direction, gusts, wave height, and more. The app provides forecasts for up to 10 days ahead, allowing sailors to plan their trips with confidence and make informed decisions based on the weather conditions.

In addition to weather forecasts, PredictWind also provides valuable routing information. The app analyzes different potential routes based on weather patterns and suggests the fastest and most efficient route, taking into account factors such as wind, current, and optimal sailing angles.

PredictWind offers various features that cater to different types of sailors. Whether you’re a casual cruiser, a competitive racer, or a professional sailor, PredictWind has a range of subscription options that suit different needs. The app is available on both iOS and Android platforms.

For those who require even more accurate weather data, PredictWind offers the option to add high-resolution weather models, such as the PWG (PredictWind GRIB) and PWE (PredictWind ECWMF) models. These models provide more detailed and localized forecasts, ensuring the utmost precision in weather predictions.

Furthermore, PredictWind offers various tools for analyzing weather patterns, including wind, rain, and temperature overlays on interactive maps. This enables sailors to gain a better understanding of the weather conditions and plan their sailing activities accordingly.

Whether you’re embarking on a coastal voyage, crossing an ocean, or participating in a regatta, PredictWind is a valuable app to have on board. Its accurate weather forecasts and routing information will undoubtedly enhance your sailing experience and help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

SailRacer

SailRacer is a top-notch app designed for competitive sailors who want to improve their racing performance. With its wealth of features and advanced analysis tools, SailRacer is a valuable companion for sailors looking to gain a competitive edge.

One of the key features of SailRacer is its race tracking capability. The app uses GPS technology to track and record your race, allowing you to review and analyze your performance afterwards. SailRacer provides detailed information such as boat speed, course over ground, and even overlays your track onto a map for visualization.

SailRacer also offers a range of performance analysis tools. You can track your progress over time, analyze your tacking and gybing techniques, and assess your boat handling skills. The app provides insights and metrics to help you understand your strengths and weaknesses as a racer, allowing you to make targeted improvements.

In addition to performance analysis, SailRacer provides regatta management features. You can access race documents, view start sequences and countdown timers, and receive notifications for important race updates. SailRacer keeps you informed and organized during regattas, ensuring you never miss a race or crucial information.

SailRacer allows you to compare your performance against other sailors in your class. You can see how your boat speed, tactics, and maneuvers stack up against the competition. This valuable information can help you fine-tune your strategies and make better decisions on the racecourse.

Furthermore, SailRacer integrates with popular navigation apps and on-board instruments, allowing you to share data seamlessly. You can sync your race data with other devices or export it for further analysis on your computer.

SailRacer is available for both iOS and Android devices, with a free version offering basic features and a premium version unlocking advanced functionalities. The app is regularly updated with new features and improvements to enhance the user experience.

If you’re a competitive sailor looking to enhance your racing performance, SailRacer is a must-have app. From race tracking and performance analysis to regatta management and competitor comparison, SailRacer provides the tools you need to excel on the racecourse.

SailGrib Weather Routing

SailGrib Weather Routing is a powerful app designed specifically for sailors who want to optimize their sailing routes based on weather conditions. With its advanced weather routing algorithms and comprehensive forecasting capabilities, SailGrib Weather Routing is an invaluable tool for maximizing speed and efficiency on the water.

One of the standout features of SailGrib Weather Routing is its ability to calculate optimal routes based on weather data. The app takes into account factors such as wind speed, direction, wave height, and currents to determine the fastest and most efficient route. This feature is particularly useful for long-distance passages or offshore races.

SailGrib Weather Routing integrates with various weather models and data sources, allowing you to select the most accurate and up-to-date forecasts. You can customize your weather routing preferences according to your boat’s performance characteristics, ensuring that the suggested routes align with your vessel’s capabilities.

The app provides detailed information on weather conditions along the route, including graphical representations of wind, waves, and currents. This allows sailors to better understand the upcoming weather patterns and make informed decisions about their sailing plans.

SailGrib Weather Routing also offers features for advanced route planning. You can set waypoints, define exclusion zones, and adjust routing parameters to further refine your proposed route. The app allows you to compare different routing options and choose the one that best suits your objectives.

In addition to weather routing, the app provides comprehensive weather forecasts, including detailed wind, wave, and precipitation information. You can view forecasts for specific locations or set up custom alerts to receive notifications for specific weather conditions.

SailGrib Weather Routing supports both offline and online use, making it suitable for remote sailing areas or areas with limited internet connectivity. The app is available for iOS and Android devices, with a free version offering basic functionality and a premium version unlocking additional features.

Whether you’re embarking on a transoceanic crossing or planning a coastal passage, SailGrib Weather Routing is an indispensable app for optimizing your routes based on weather conditions. Its advanced algorithms and comprehensive forecasting capabilities will help you save time, fuel, and make your sailing experience more enjoyable.

iRegatta Pro

iRegatta Pro is a feature-rich app designed for sailors who participate in racing events. With its comprehensive set of tools and intuitive interface, iRegatta Pro helps sailors enhance their racing performance and make strategic decisions on the racecourse.

One of the key features of iRegatta Pro is its customizable start line function. The app allows you to set up virtual start lines and provides countdown timers and distance-to-line information, helping you time your approach and get a competitive start. This feature is invaluable for sailors who want to gain an advantage at the beginning of a race.

iRegatta Pro offers advanced race data analysis tools. You can record your tracks and visualize your performance on interactive charts. The app provides metrics such as boat speed, heading, and VMG (Velocity Made Good), allowing you to analyze and compare your performance against your competitors.

The app also supports Race Committee functions, enabling you to run your own races and set up marks and courses. You can manage multiple start groups, record finish times, and generate race results within the app. This functionality is particularly useful for sailing clubs and organizations.

iRegatta Pro integrates with external NMEA instruments and sensors, allowing you to connect your boat’s onboard systems for real-time data. You can monitor and display data such as wind speed, boat speed, compass heading, and more, enhancing your situational awareness during races.

In addition to racing features, iRegatta Pro offers useful navigation tools. You can create waypoints, set up virtual buoys, and navigate using the app’s built-in compass. The app also supports anchor watch and can notify you if your boat drifts outside a predefined area.

iRegatta Pro is available for iOS devices and offers a range of customization options to suit different racing preferences. The app has a user-friendly interface and provides detailed help files and tutorials to ensure ease of use.

Whether you’re a seasoned racer or just starting out, iRegatta Pro is an indispensable app for optimizing your racing performance and managing race events. Its versatile features and powerful analysis tools provide the information you need to make strategic decisions and improve your results on the racecourse.

MarineTraffic

MarineTraffic is a comprehensive app that provides real-time tracking and information on vessel movements around the world. With its extensive network of AIS (Automatic Identification System) receivers, MarineTraffic offers a wealth of data on ship positions, routes, and other relevant information.

One of the key features of MarineTraffic is its interactive map, which allows users to track vessels in real-time. The app displays the positions of ships, including commercial vessels, pleasure crafts, and even fishing boats. You can tap on any vessel icon to view detailed information such as speed, course, destination, and more.

MarineTraffic is not just limited to tracking vessels, but also provides historical data, allowing you to analyze past movements and patterns. This feature can be particularly useful for sailors who want to study maritime traffic in a specific area or analyze navigation routes.

In addition to vessel tracking, MarineTraffic offers various other features. You can set custom notifications to receive alerts when a specific vessel enters or leaves a certain area. This can be handy for sailors who want to keep tabs on nearby shipping traffic or monitor the movements of particular vessels of interest.

The app also provides port information, including details on arrivals, departures, and estimated times of arrival for vessels. This can be helpful for sailors planning their entry into a specific port or wanting to stay informed about harbor congestion.

MarineTraffic offers a user-friendly interface and is available on both iOS and Android platforms. The app has a variety of subscription options, ranging from free access to basic features to premium subscriptions that unlock additional functionalities like advanced vessel information and historical track playback.

Whether you’re a sailor looking to monitor marine traffic, a curious sea enthusiast, or even a professional in the maritime industry, MarineTraffic is a valuable app to have. Its real-time vessel tracking, historical data, and other features provide a comprehensive view of maritime activity and enhance your understanding of the seas.

WindFinder

WindFinder is a popular sailing app that specializes in providing accurate wind and weather forecasts for sailors. With its user-friendly interface and reliable data, WindFinder helps sailors plan their sailing activities, taking advantage of optimal wind conditions.

One of the key features of WindFinder is its comprehensive wind forecast information. The app provides detailed wind speed and direction predictions, allowing sailors to anticipate the conditions they will encounter on the water. This is crucial for making informed decisions about sail selection, route planning, and timing of departures.

WindFinder offers various weather models, including GFS (Global Forecast System) and NAM (North American Mesoscale Model). These models provide accurate and localized forecasts, catering to sailors in different regions around the world.

WindFinder also provides other essential weather parameters, such as air temperature, precipitation, cloud cover, and atmospheric pressure. Having access to this information helps sailors assess overall weather conditions and plan their activities accordingly, ensuring a safe and comfortable sailing experience.

Another useful feature of WindFinder is its ability to display wind animations on an interactive map. This feature allows sailors to visualize wind patterns over time, providing insights into the wind’s behavior and helping them make more informed decisions based on the anticipated wind changes.

WindFinder is available for both iOS and Android devices, with a free version offering basic features and a premium version unlocking additional functionalities like extended forecast ranges and ad-free usage. The app also offers options for wind and weather alerts, ensuring that sailors stay informed about changing weather conditions.

Whether you’re planning a leisurely sail or embarking on a racing challenge, WindFinder is a reliable app to have on hand. Its accurate wind and weather forecasts, along with its interactive map and animation, make it an indispensable tool for every sailor who wants to optimize their time on the water.

WindAlert

WindAlert is a powerful sailing app that provides detailed wind forecasts and real-time wind observations for sailors. With its comprehensive coverage and reliable data, WindAlert is a valuable tool for assessing wind conditions and planning sailing activities.

One of the standout features of WindAlert is its extensive network of weather stations and sensors worldwide. The app provides real-time wind data from thousands of locations, allowing sailors to access up-to-the-minute information on wind speed, direction, and gusts in their vicinity.

WindAlert offers a variety of weather models, including high-resolution models like the HRRR (High-Resolution Rapid Refresh) and ECMWF (European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts). These models provide accurate and localized forecasts, helping sailors make well-informed decisions about their sailing plans.

In addition to wind forecasts, WindAlert also provides other relevant weather data, such as air temperature, wave height, and atmospheric pressure. Having access to this information allows sailors to assess overall weather conditions and plan their activities accordingly, ensuring safety and comfort on the water.

WindAlert offers a range of features to help sailors analyze wind patterns and conditions. The app provides wind animations and graphs, allowing users to visualize wind trends over time. This feature enables sailors to identify patterns and make predictions about future wind behavior.

WindAlert is available for both iOS and Android devices, with a free version offering basic features and a premium subscription option that unlocks additional functionalities like extended forecast ranges and advanced features for route planning and navigation.

Whether you’re a recreational sailor, a professional racer, or a windsurfing enthusiast, WindAlert is a must-have app. Its comprehensive wind forecasts, real-time wind observations, and advanced analysis tools make it an invaluable resource for optimizing your sailing experience and taking advantage of ideal wind conditions.

AyeTides

AyeTides is a specialized app that provides accurate tidal information for sailors, boaters, and anyone who relies on precise tide data. With its extensive database of tidal predictions, AyeTides ensures that sailors can navigate safely and efficiently based on the ebb and flow of the tides.

One of the key features of AyeTides is its comprehensive coverage of tidal stations worldwide. The app offers access to thousands of tidal stations, allowing users to find and select the nearest station to their location. This ensures that sailors can obtain accurate tidal information specific to their area.

AyeTides provides detailed tidal graphs, showing the height and timing of high and low tides throughout a specific day. This information helps sailors plan their activities, such as entering or leaving a harbor, crossing a shallow area, or navigating through narrow channels that are affected by tidal currents.

One unique feature of AyeTides is its ability to display predicted tidal heights relative to the water depth at any given location. This feature, known as Depth Under Keel (DUK), is particularly important for sailors who navigate in shallow areas or have specific draft constraints. It ensures that sailors have the necessary information to avoid grounding their vessels.

AyeTides also offers additional tidal information, such as current speed and direction, which is crucial for sailors who need to navigate through areas with strong tidal currents. The app helps sailors plan their routes and timings to take advantage of favorable currents or avoid challenging passages.

AyeTides is available for iOS devices and offers a variety of customization options to suit specific user preferences. The app provides the flexibility to select different units of measurement and adjust for local differences in tidal harmonics.

Whether you’re a coastal cruiser, a professional sailor, or a fisherman, AyeTides is an essential app for reliable tidal information. Its accurate predictions, tidal graphs, and unique features like DUK ensure that sailors have the knowledge they need to navigate safely and effectively in tidal waters.