Garmin GPSMAP 79sc Handheld GPS
Garmin GPSMAP 79sc Handheld GPS — Product description
Why the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is Your Ultimate Marine Companion
Picture this: you're out on the open water, waves crashing, sun glaring down, and you need to know exactly where you are and where you're headed. The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc handheld GPS steps up as the reliable partner every boater, angler, or kayaker dreams of. Built tough for marine environments, this device doesn't just survive rough conditions—it thrives in them. Its buoyant design means it floats if it takes a dive overboard, while the IPX7 water resistance keeps it going through splashes and submersion. What sets it apart? Superior multi-GNSS tracking pulling from GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, QZSS, and SBAS for pinpoint accuracy even in challenging coastal areas where single-system units falter.
Unlike basic GPS tools, the 79sc comes preloaded with BlueChart g3 coastal charts, blending Garmin's precision with Navionics data for detailed navigation of shorelines, harbors, and hazards. Boaters rave about how it simplifies trip planning, from marking prime fishing spots to plotting safe routes home. With expanded memory handling 10,000 waypoints, 250 routes, and 300 activity files, you'll never run short on space for your adventures.
Standout Features That Make Navigation Effortless
- Sunlight-Readable Display: The 3-inch transflective color TFT screen (240x400 pixels) shines bright under direct sunlight, staying fogproof and scratch-resistant for clear views no matter the weather.
- 3-Axis Tilt-Compensated Compass: Get accurate headings even when your boat is at rest or tilting in choppy waters—perfect for precise maneuvering.
- Barometric Altimeter: Tracks elevation changes and pressure shifts, helping you gauge weather patterns and your position with extra detail.
- Extended Battery Power: Pop in two user-replaceable AA batteries (NiMH or lithium recommended) for up to 19 hours of continuous GPS use, ideal for long days on the water.
- Rugged Build: Meets MIL-STD-810 standards for thermal, shock, and water resistance, weighing just 9.95 oz with batteries for easy handling.
- Versatile Navigation Tools: Point-to-point routing, area calculations, hunt/fish calendars, paperless geocaching, and custom map compatibility expand its use beyond boating to hiking or off-road exploring.
Marine-Specific Advantages
For coastal cruisers and offshore anglers, the preloaded BlueChart g3 charts deliver hydrographic details like coastlines, lake outlines, wetlands, and streams. Downloadable Garmin Express content adds parks, campgrounds, and scenic spots, turning this handheld into a full navigation powerhouse.
Detailed Specifications at a Glance
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Physical Dimensions | 2.67" x 6.85" x 1.67" (6.77 x 17.40 x 4.23 cm) |
| Display Size | 3" diagonal (1.5" W x 2.5" H) |
| Display Resolution | 240 x 400 pixels |
| Weight | 9.95 oz (282g) with batteries |
| Battery Life | Up to 19 hours in GPS mode |
| Water Rating | IPX7 |
| Memory | 8 GB internal; supports up to 32 GB microSD |
| Waypoints/Routes/Tracks | 10,000 / 250 / 250 saved GPX tracks |
| Satellite Systems | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, QZSS, SBAS |
What's Included and Quick Setup Tips
Right out of the box, you get the GPSMAP 79sc unit, a handy lanyard to keep it secure, a USB cable for charging and data transfer, and all necessary documentation. Setup is straightforward: insert fresh AA batteries, power on, and let it acquire satellites in seconds thanks to its high-sensitivity receiver. Pair it with a microSD card for extra maps, and you're charting courses like a pro.
Pro tip: Calibrate the compass before your first outing by following the on-screen prompts—rotate the unit in a figure-eight pattern for optimal accuracy. Regularly update via USB to unlock new features and maps, keeping your navigation sharp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc float if dropped in water?
Yes, it's specifically designed to float, making it ideal for marine use. The buoyant construction ensures it stays on the surface if it goes overboard.
What kind of charts does it come with?
It includes preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts with detailed Garmin and Navionics integration for coastlines, harbors, and marine points of interest.
How long does the battery last on the GPSMAP 79sc?
Up to 19 hours in GPS mode using two AA batteries, extendable with rechargeable NiMH or lithium options for all-day adventures.
Is the display easy to see in bright sunlight?
Absolutely—the 3-inch transflective TFT color display excels in direct sunlight, remaining readable without glare issues.
Can I use it for activities beyond boating?
Yes, it's versatile for hiking, fishing, geocaching, and more, with tools like area calculation, hunt/fish calendars, and custom maps.
Does it support multiple satellite systems for better accuracy?
It supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, QZSS, and SBAS, providing superior global tracking reliability.
What's the memory capacity like?
8 GB internal storage holds 10,000 waypoints, 250 routes, and more; expandable via microSD up to 32 GB.
Cast off confidently with GPSMAP ® 79sc which helps to Stay on course, and track more adventures with these rugged, floating handhelds.
Garmin 100263502 Attributes
- Type: Handheld
- Screen Size: 3 Inch
- Route Guidance: For Passenger Vehicles
- Countries: US
- Voice To Text: Without Directional Announcements
- Address Input: Built-In Maps
- Point Of Interest: 10000 Waypoints
- Bluetooth Compatible: No
Garmin 100263502 Features & Benefits
- Water-Resistant, It Floats, And It's Fogproof, So It Belongs On The Water
- Can Remember Up To 10,000 Waypoints And More
- Nice To Have Reliable Positioning When You're Out On The Water
- Built-In Compass Will Point You In The Right Direction
- Get The Best Of Garmin And Navionics ® Data With BlueChart ® G3 Coastal Charts
- Stay Out Longer With Up To 19 Hour Of Battery Life In GPS Mode
- Limited 1 Year Warranty
Garmin 100263502 Installation Instructions
Garmin 100263502 Warranties
GPSMAP 79sc Handheld GPS
Cast off confidently with the GPSMAP 79sc marine GPS handheld. This rugged, floating handheld features a sunlight-readable, high-resolution color display that is fog-proof and scratch-resistant. You get access to a range of satellite constellations, so you get more reliable, accurate tracking around the world. Navigate wherever your adventures take you with built-in BlueChart g3 coastal charts. With more memory than previous models, you can save and track 10,000 waypoints and 250 routes. Keep your bearings with the built-in compass.
Features:
- It's water-resistant, it floats, and it's fogproof, so it belongs on the water just like you.
- This thing can remember up to 10,000 waypoints and more, so you don't have to.
- It's nice to have reliable positioning when you're out on the water.
- The built-in compass will point you in the right direction.
- Get the best of Garmin and Navionics data with optional BlueChart g3 coastal charts.
- Stay out longer with up to 19 hours of battery life in GPS mode.
Rugged Handheld
This handheld is water-resistant (IPX7) with a high-resolution color display you can read in the sun. The glass is even scratch-resistant and fogproof.
Designed To Float
If rough waters come and the handheld goes overboard, don't worry. This device floats.
Battery Life
User-replaceable AA batteries (not included) provide up to 19 hours of battery life in GPS tracking mode.
Accurate Tracking
With support for multiple satellite constellations such as GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, QZSS and SBAS you'll get accurate, reliable tracking and positioning around the world.
Increased Memory
More memory than previous models means you can save and track 10,000 waypoints, 250 routes and 300 fitness activity files.
Built-In Compass
The 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass shows your heading even while the boat is standing still.
Bluechart Coverage
Preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts (GPSMAP 79sc only) give you leading-edge coverage, clarity and detail with integrated Garmin and Navionics data.
In The Box
- GPSMAP 79sc
- Lanyard
- USB cable
- Documentation
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including LEAD which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.
SKU: NVN-91281
MPN: 010-02635-02
UPC: 753759284534
Technical specifications
| Brand | Garmin |
| Model | Garmin GPSMAP 79sc Handheld GPS |
| SKU / MFR# | 91281 |
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