MasterCraft Boat Holdings has announced the integration of Apple CarPlay into its upcoming Crest and Balise pontoons, starting with the 2027 model year. Partnering with Savvy Navvy, the company aims to deliver on-water navigation directly at the helm, offering boaters a modern and connected infotainment experience. This move marks a significant step for the marine industry, which has long awaited high-tech solutions on board.
With the integration of Savvy Navvy, boaters will be able to use CarPlay to view nautical charts, track GPS, plan smart routes, and access live weather forecasts, all alongside other CarPlay apps. Unlike the standard Apple Maps integration, Savvy Navvy provides water-specific navigation, filling a critical gap for those who head out to sea.
A system designed to simplify the boater's life
Jelte Liebrand, Founder and CEO of Savvy Navvy, highlighted that boaters have asked for a modern infotainment system for years. "Plan your trip on the couch, step aboard, and it is already at the helm. No complicated ways to synchronise things; it just works." Savvy Navvy for CarPlay works on iOS and Android with any compatible display, ensuring flexibility and ease of use.
Sponsored Protocol
The novelty is not limited to top-tier models. From 2027, Apple CarPlay with Savvy Navvy will come standard on all new Balise and Crest Conquest and Caribbean models. Additionally, a limited Savvy Navvy Premium subscription is included, offering advanced features for early adopters.
The Savvy Navvy app is available globally for CarPlay starting today and works with any compatible CarPlay display, including aftermarket marine head units. This means that even owners of older boats can modernize their navigation experience without replacing the entire instrumentation.
Sponsored Protocol
This initiative by MasterCraft represents a turning point for the marine industry, which is finally embracing connectivity and digitalization. In a context where technology advances rapidly in other sectors, as demonstrated by new ultra-dense storage solutions or high-speed memory chips, the boating world does not want to lag behind.
The partnership between MasterCraft and Savvy Navvy is a clear signal that boat manufacturers are listening to customer needs, offering solutions that enhance safety and comfort on the water. With CarPlay, boaters can use the same features they already appreciate in cars, but adapted to the marine environment. To learn more about how technology is transforming other aspects of the animal world, you can read this article on hypoallergenic dogs.
Sponsored Protocol
The availability of the Savvy Navvy app on CarPlay worldwide represents a major step forward for recreational navigation. With features like smart routing and real-time weather forecasts, boaters can plan their trips more efficiently and safely. Moreover, the integration with CarPlay allows managing calls, messages, and music without taking eyes off the route, enhancing safety on board.
In summary, the arrival of CarPlay on Crest and Balise pontoons is news that will revolutionize the way we experience the sea. Thanks to the collaboration with Savvy Navvy, MasterCraft demonstrates being at the forefront of nautical innovation, offering a product that combines technology and practicality. The future of boating is connected, and this is just the beginning.
Source: https://www.macrumors.com/2026/08/04/carplay-is-coming-to-pontoon-boats
