First Look: Orca CoPilot

Norwegian company Orca has debuted its app‑based CoPilot navigation system in the United States. The system begins with a free app (available on Apple and Google Play app stores). The app provides online marine charts and satellite navigation charts, routing, weather planning, departure scheduling, harbor guide, AIS, and a safety hub.

For $499, boaters can purchase Core, a navigation hub that connects wirelessly to the app, and—as Orca says—turns your tablet and phone into true chart plotters.

Core’s built-in motion processor also powers advanced sailing instrumentation. The device supports up to five connected mobile devices simultaneously.

Don’t want to use your tablet on the open ocean? Orca also sells a compatible, wireless 10.1-inch IP68display for $1,599. Orca markets to consumers via its website; a US warehouse will ship to American boaters. The company also says it plans to work with resellers and installers.