Garmin buys Navionics for undisclosed sum

Garmin has bought electronic navigational charts and mobile applications company Navionics for an undisclosed sum.

In addition to its boating app, Navionics has developed nautical charts for oceans, rivers, and lakes worldwide.

Many of the charts have been developed with Navionics’ proprietary surveys, done both in the field and with remote sensing such as satellite imagery and airborne laser scanners.

“Navionics has long been known as a leading supplier of highly accurate navigational charts and mobile applications for boaters,” said Cliff Pemble, Garmin president and CEO. “By combining Navionics’ content with Garmin’s BlueChart and LakeVü content, we will be able to offer the best available breadth and depth of coverage to our marine customers.”

Giuseppe Carnevali, Navionics founder and president, added: “Since our founding, Navionics has been passionate about creating products that enhance the boating experience.

“Garmin shares our passion for serving the marine industry and is an ideal company to carry the strong brand and reputation of Navionics into the future.”

Navionics is headquartered in Viareggio, Italy and employs more than 350 staff globally who will be retained. The Navionics brand will be retained.