Overview

The Garmin GPSMAP 86 is a floating handheld marine GPS built for navigation on deck, in the cockpit, or as a backup when you do not want to rely on a fixed plotter. It uses a 3-inch transflective color display with 240 x 400 resolution and button controls that stay usable with wet hands, and it carries an IPX7 water rating for life around spray and rain.

On board, it can act like an extra screen for your system by streaming boat data from compatible Garmin chartplotters and instruments. It also supports controlling compatible autopilot and Fusion stereo functions through supported apps, which is handy when you are moving around the boat and still want quick adjustments without leaving your station.

This listing covers configurations that differ by two things: whether inReach satellite communication is built in, and whether the unit is preloaded with BlueChart g3 coastal charts or a Worldwide basemap. Models with inReach use the Iridium satellite network for two-way messaging and SOS, and those satellite features require an active subscription.

Key features

• IPX7 water rating and a floating housing for use around spray and accidental drops overboard
• 3-inch transflective color display (240 x 400) with button operation for wet conditions and gloves
• Rechargeable internal lithium battery with up to 35 hours in default mode with 10-minute tracking and auto recording, and up to 200 hours in expedition mode with 30-minute tracking
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and ANT+ for syncing, updates, and phone notifications when paired with a compatible smartphone
• Can display streaming boat data from compatible Garmin marine electronics and supports control of compatible autopilot and Fusion stereo functions through supported apps
• Offered with preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts or a Worldwide basemap, with or without inReach satellite communication

Variants

The GPSMAP 86 family is offered in multiple configurations to match how you navigate and how much off-grid communication you want to carry on board.

The differences shown here are inReach satellite communication (Yes or No) and the preloaded chart package (BlueChart g3 coastal charts or a Worldwide basemap).

• 010-02236-02: inReach satellite communication: Yes; Charts and maps: BlueChart g3. This configuration adds two-way messaging and SOS beyond cell coverage and includes coastal charts preloaded for marine navigation.
• 010-02235-02: inReach satellite communication: No; Charts and maps: BlueChart g3. This configuration focuses on handheld GPS navigation with coastal charts preloaded, without built-in satellite messaging or SOS.
• 010-02236-00: inReach satellite communication: Yes; Charts and maps: Worldwide basemap. This configuration includes satellite texting and SOS with a general basemap preloaded for broad coverage, and detailed marine charts can be added separately.
• 010-02235-00: inReach satellite communication: No; Charts and maps: Worldwide basemap. This configuration keeps things straightforward with handheld GPS navigation and a Worldwide basemap, without built-in satellite communication.

Installation and setup

Most owners run it handheld with a tether, then add a mount at the helm when they want a consistent viewing spot for routes, waypoints, and boat data. For charging, the unit can be powered through its USB connection, and powered mount options are available when you want a cleaner install on a console or binnacle.

Pairing and updates are straightforward: connect to Wi-Fi for downloads and software updates, then pair to a compatible smartphone over Bluetooth when you want notification mirroring and easier syncing of waypoints, tracks, and routes.

Charts and navigation on the water

BlueChart g3 configurations come ready for coastal navigation right out of the box, while Worldwide basemap configurations start with broad coverage for basic position awareness and route work. If you like to tailor coverage to your cruising grounds, the GPSMAP 86 platform supports adding additional compatible mapping, and it can use a microSD card for extra storage.

When you are underway, the adjustable GPS filter helps smooth speed and heading indications as the boat moves through swells, which makes handheld tracking and steering references easier to read at a glance.

Satellite communication and safety

Configurations with inReach support two-way messaging over the Iridium satellite network, plus interactive SOS to a 24/7 staffed response center. This is useful for offshore runs, remote anchorages, and any trip where cell service is unreliable and you still want a way to check in or escalate an emergency.

inReach models can also request weather, including marine forecasts, and support tracking features that share your progress with contacts. Battery life depends on tracking and message-check intervals, so most crews tune those settings to match the length of the passage.

Compatibility and power on board

Because it runs on an internal rechargeable battery, it fits cleanly on boats with 12V or 24V systems as long as you have a USB power source at the helm or below. It is a good match for sailors, cruisers, and anglers who want a dedicated handheld they can carry to the bow, the tender, or the dock while still keeping navigation and key data close at hand.

If you plan to integrate it more tightly with onboard electronics, confirm compatibility with your Garmin chartplotter, instruments, autopilot, and Fusion stereo so the boat data and remote-control functions line up with what you have installed.

Maintenance and care

After saltwater use, rinse the exterior with fresh water and let it dry before charging. Keep the charging contacts and port area clean, and store the unit out of direct sun when it is not in use to reduce heat soak and extend battery life over time.