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Marine radars

A marine radar uses radio waves to detect objects around your vessel such as coastlines, other boats, buoys, and weather systems — even in darkness, fog, or heavy rain. It works by sending out radar pulses that reflect off surrounding objects and calculates their distance and direction, displaying them in real time on your chartplotter or radar screen.

Radome radar (also called closed dome) are compact, enclosed units ideal for smaller boats or sailboats where space and power efficiency are key. Open array radar are larger, bar-shaped antennas offering superior range, target separation, and clarity — perfect for yachts and commercial vessels.

Modern radar systems feature solid-state or Doppler technology, delivering fast target tracking, automatic collision alerts, and integration with GPS and AIS for complete situational awareness. Whether you’re navigating a busy harbor or offshore waters, marine radar keeps you aware of your surroundings and enhances safety at sea.

Navigate safely in all conditions with our range of marine radar systems from Raymarine, Garmin, and B&G.

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What is a marine radar?

A marine radar uses radio waves to detect objects around your boat. The radar transmits a signal, which reflects off objects such as ships, coastlines, buoys, or rain squalls and returns to the radar antenna. These echoes are processed and displayed on a compatible chartplotter or multifunction display (MFD).

Marine radars provide real-time information about:

  • Nearby vessels and traffic
  • Coastlines and land contours
  • Buoys and navigation aids
  • Weather cells and rain
  • Relative distance and bearing of targets

Why a marine radar is important

1. Safe navigation in poor visibility

Radar allows you to “see” when visibility is reduced by fog, rain, darkness, or haze.

2. Collision avoidance

By tracking moving targets, radar helps you assess collision risks and make timely course adjustments.

3. Offshore and night navigation

Radar is especially valuable offshore and during night passages when visual references are limited.

4. Weather awareness

Modern radars can detect rain squalls and storm cells, helping you anticipate changing conditions.

How does a marine radar work?

Marine radar systems:

  • Transmit short bursts of radio energy
  • Receive reflected signals from objects
  • Calculate distance based on signal return time
  • Display targets relative to your vessel

Modern digital radars use advanced signal processing to improve target clarity, reduce clutter from waves and rain, enhance small or weak targets.

Types of marine radar systems

Radome radar

Radome radars house the rotating antenna inside a sealed dome.

Characteristics

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Lower power consumption
  • Easier installation
  • Clean, modern appearance

Best for: small to medium-sized boats, sailing yachts, and space-limited installations.

Open array radar

Open array radars use a rotating antenna mounted on an exposed array.

Characteristics

  • Higher transmission power
  • Longer detection range
  • Better target separation
  • Superior performance in offshore conditions

Best for: larger boats, motor yachts, and offshore navigation.

What is the difference between solid-state radar and magnetron radar?

Solid-state Doppler radar

Solid-state radar uses modern solid-state transmitters instead of a traditional magnetron. These radars offer instant start-up, lower power consumption, and enhanced target detection.

Doppler technology is often combined with solid-state radar designs. With Doppler processing, moving targets can be highlighted and colour-coded, making it easier to identify collision risks and track vessel movement.

Solid-state Doppler radars are especially valued for:

  • Clear target separation at short and medium range
  • Improved situational awareness
  • Quiet, low-maintenance operation

Magnetron radar

Magnetron radar is the traditional radar technology used in marine navigation. It provides high transmission power and long detection range, making it well suited for offshore and long-range use.

Magnetron radars are known for:

  • Strong long-range performance
  • Reliable operation in demanding conditions
  • Proven technology used for decades

Which radar brands are recommended?

Raymarine

Raymarine radars are known for advanced target processing, intuitive controls, and seamless integration with Raymarine chartplotters.

B&G

B&G radars are optimised for sailing performance, offering excellent target clarity and offshore reliability.

Garmin

Garmin radars deliver powerful performance with user-friendly interfaces and strong integration across the Garmin ecosystem.

Radar mounting options

Consider: Correct height, alignment, and cable routing are essential for optimal radar performance.

  • Mast mounting: Common on sailing yachts, providing excellent height and range.
  • Radar arch mounting: Popular on motorboats, offering a stable and elevated platform.
  • Pole or bracket mounting: Ideal for boats without masts or arches.

Seashop also offers radar mounts, cables, and installation accessories to ensure a safe and reliable setup.

How to choose the right marine radar?

1. Boat size and type

Smaller boats typically benefit from radome radars, while larger vessels may require open array systems.

2. Sailing area

  • Inland & coastal → compact radome radar
  • Offshore → high-performance open array radar

3. Integration requirements

Ensure compatibility with your existing chartplotter or navigation system.

4. Mounting possibilities

Available mounting locations may influence radar type and size.

5. Power availability

Consider power consumption, especially on sailing yachts.