A recent post here called Raymarine's new G-Series multifunction navigation system "vaporware" because it appears that it is still not actually available after months of marketing publicity.

So much of boat design is compromise -- weight versus speed, fishing vs. cruising layout.  One of the inherent compromises in powerboat designs is the gear ratio that is fixed in your boat's transmission.  Usually, it is a compromise aimed at satisfying a relatively high cruise speed.  The transmission usually takes the high RPM of your engine and steps it down somewhat to a slower propeller RPM.   But what if you didn't have to accept that compromise?

Ironically, the marketing slogan for the Furuno NavNet 3D product line is, "The Wait is Over!" It ain't over. They've been demo'd and shown and talked about and marketed and blogged about since early last Fall.

But you still can't buy one.

NMMA

The packing boxes and crates and bubble wrap have all reappeared from wherever exhibitors stashed them over the last five days and there is a sad, almost forlorn look to the Miami Beach Convention Center.  It's closing time on closing day and we're all headed back home soon.  But I thought first I would leave you with some thoughts about the show.

If so, you absolutely need to talk to the folks at Independence Green Yachts.  They are now selling the Independence 60, which relies on sun and water alone for all of its power requirements.  With 60' to play with and only three staterooms, this boat boasts luxury.  And yet, you don't have to feel guilty about the conspicuous consumption.  Here's why.

One of the more compelling items to present itself at the Miami Show this week was NavQuest, an online service that does for boaters what MapQuest does for drivers.

Boats aren't the only thing you can test at the Miami Boat Show. The folks at Crocs, makers of those fashion-backward but oh-so-comfy shoes, are offering show visitors a chance to amble around in a pair. That's right. You can test the shoes.