What camera system is best for a catamaran, and how should it be chosen and installed?
I want cameras on my catamaran because I cannot see both stern quarters clearly from the helm when docking. What system should I choose, how many cameras do I need, and where should they be fitted?
Answer
For docking a catamaran, start with a wired marine camera system that works with your helm display, with one camera covering each stern quarter. For compatible Garmin equipment, consider the GC 245 surface-mount or GC 255 flush-mount cameras, choosing around the boat's blind spots, display compatibility and cable routes.
Check your helm display
Record the chartplotter model, software version and existing network equipment. These determine which cameras it can display, which adapters or network hardware you need, and whether useful camera views can stay on screen while manoeuvring.
A network socket does not guarantee compatibility. Garmin Marine Network, Garmin BlueNet, analogue video inputs and ordinary IP camera systems use different arrangements. Confirm the complete connection path before ordering.
- Compatible Garmin installation: consider the GC 245 where a surface-mounted housing will fit, or the GC 255 where the structure and rear access suit a flush installation.
- Another chartplotter brand: start with its supported cameras and video interfaces. Avoid replacing a satisfactory navigation system just to accommodate a camera.
- Independent installation: a dedicated wired monitor makes sense if the chartplotter has limited video support or you want navigation and docking views permanently separated.
The GC 245 and GC 255 provide 1080p output, low-light capability and 12/24V operation. Available features include standard, FishEye and BirdsEye views, guidance lines and professionally calibrated distance markers. Check which features your display supports. A BirdsEye view does not automatically provide a stitched, all-round overhead image.
Cover both stern quarters
On many cruising catamarans, two stern-quarter cameras make the biggest difference. Mount one to port and one to starboard, usually beneath the aft hardtop corners or on suitable aft structure. Aim them down towards the outer hull corners and boarding platforms.
Each picture should show a fixed part of the boat, the adjacent water and the approaching pontoon. The boat provides a reference for judging clearance that a wide view of water alone cannot give.
- Add a forward camera if the saloon or coachroof hides the bows from the helm.
- Check whether the tender, davits, solar panels or cockpit enclosure obstruct the picture.
- Use separate cameras for engine compartments if you also need machinery monitoring.
Temporarily position each camera and check its live picture before drilling. Test with the tender stowed and deployed, and with normal cockpit covers fitted. Excessively wide lenses make objects appear farther away, so favour useful detail over maximum coverage.