Good binoculars are always worth the investment. Finding the best binoculars for your boat can be quite an adventure, however. Introducing the 3 best options!
Binoculars are the faithful companion of any sailor. For sailors, choosing the best binoculars for a boat can be a daunting task. How should you prioritize when choosing binoculars?
Why does a sailor need good binoculars?
Every sailor knows this alarming moment when you hardly enter an unfamiliar port. Chances are, the sea is rough, the lighting is dim and, despite careful planning, things are not going well.
The crew counts on you as skipper. But all you see is rumbling waves, some kind of mess on the shore. At such a moment, you need a reliable pair of binoculars.
Selection factors
There are various factors to consider when choosing binoculars. First, let's take into account the fact that it will be used at sea. Secondly, binoculars should be waterproof and shockproof if possible.
Decent magnification is another important aspect. The ideal magnification is 7 to 10 is ideal.
Equally important is the amount of light they capture. This is the second number, and from a layperson's point of view, the higher the number, the larger the front lens and the more light is captured. This is critical in low light: we like having a 40 to 50 front lens kit.
Finally, the overall quality of the materials used is of key importance. Better to get binoculars with better quality lenses and prisms.
A good option is binoculars with a built-in compass. These binoculars provide an easy-to-view and practical instrument that allows you to navigate more easily.
Whether you are trying to navigate your route through many lights, buoys and breakwaters, or checking the likelihood of a collision in traffic, you will find this compass invaluable.
Steiner Navigator 7 × 50 binoculars
Superior optics deliver bright images even in low light. The sports AF system means all distant subjects are perfectly focused.
The frame feels really solid, and the rubberized exterior will take up to 11G impact. It is important to note that these binoculars are completely waterproof and nitrogen filled. This means it won't fog up even at extreme temperatures.
Perhaps the only downside is that the Steiners are among the heaviest at almost 1.2kg. If you want something lighter, the 7x30 version will be almost twice as light.
Suitability for marine conditions: 5/5
Image quality: 4.5 / 5
Price / quality ratio: 4/5.
Fujinon Mariner 7 × 50 WPC-XL
Best Binoculars for Boat: Mid Range Option
Excellent mid range binoculars. The first thing you'll notice is that the polycarbonate body makes it very lightweight. Weight is only about 0.8 kg.
It really matters when you have been looking over the horizon for a long time. By the way, the increased distance from the eyepiece to the eye makes it possible to use glasses together with binoculars. And, most importantly, you will not suffer from a decrease in the field of vision.
The only downside is that the body is smooth, and the lack of grip makes the binoculars a little slippery in the rain.
Suitability for sea conditions: 3.5 / 5
Image quality: 4/5
Price / quality ratio: 4/5.
Leica Noctivid 10 × 42
One of the delights of sailing is the surrounding flora and fauna. And great binoculars like the Leica Noctivid allow you to see birds, whales and mountains in great detail.
The 10x magnification works well, and the 42mm lens provides ample input light. The weight of the binoculars will also be a plus - 0.8 kg.
Alas, these binoculars do not have a built-in compass. However, if any binoculars will accurately and vividly convey an image, it is they.
Suitability for sea conditions: 4/5
Image quality: 5/5
Value for money: 3/5
28.09.2021
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