Garmin GPS 73 Handheld Marine GPS
Garmin GPS 73 — Short Description
The Garmin GPS 73 is a rugged, handheld GPS device designed for marine use—ideal for small boats, sailboats, or as an emergency backup navigation device. It offers high-sensitivity satellite reception, floats if dropped overboard, and includes Garmin’s SailAssist™ features for sailing precision: virtual starting line, countdown timer, tack assist, and heading line. Additional marine-centric features include celestial data (sunrise/sunset, hunting/fishing calendar), estimated time of arrival, and compatibility with NMEA 0183 and USB for data transfer and route planning. It runs on two AA batteries, delivering over 18 hours of operation.
Key Features
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High-Sensitivity GPS: Quickly acquires and tracks signals even under overhangs or dense conditions.
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SailAssist™ Suite: Includes virtual starting line, heading line, countdown timer, and tack assist—ideal for sailing races.
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Waypoint & Track Memory: Stores up to 1,000 waypoints, 100 tracks, and allows up to 50 routes. Track logs support 10,000 points.
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Marine Data Tools: Provides sunrise/sunset times, lunar data, hunting/fishing calendar, and arrival time calculations.
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Rugged and Waterproof: IPX7 water rating; floats when dropped in water.
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Display & Interface: High-contrast, sunlight-readable, backlit 4-level grayscale LCD (128 × 160 px). Dedicated buttons ensure easy use in rough maritime conditions.
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Long Battery Life: Powered by 2 AA batteries (not included) with over 18 hours of use.
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Connectivity: Data transfer via USB or NMEA 0183—useful for integration with other marine systems.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.6″ × 6.0″ × 1.2″ (6.6 × 15.2 × 3.0 cm) |
| Display | 2.6″ diagonal (1.4″ × 2.1″), 128 × 160 px, 4‑level grayscale LCD |
| Weight | ~7.2 oz (203 g) with batteries |
| Battery | 2 AA (not included); >18 hours runtime |
| GPS Receiver | High-sensitivity (supporting GPS ± WAAS/GLONASS) |
| Memory | 1,000 waypoints; 100 tracks; 50 routes; 10,000 track log points |
| Marine Data | Sunrise/sunset, hunt/fish calendar, ETA, area calculation |
| Durability | IPX7 waterproof; floats |
| Connectivity | USB + NMEA 0183 Serial |
| Included in Box | GPS 73 unit, lanyard, quick-start manual |
Additional Insights
Manufacturer Highlights
Garmin introduced the GPS 73 as a streamlined and cost-effective evolution of the Garmin GPS 72, emphasizing reliability for both recreational and racing applications in the marine environment.
Real-World Feedback
Despite its dated interface and small screen, many sailors value the GPS 73 for its simplicity and dependability:
“At this price point there is nothing better… It does what it’s supposed to to every time all the time.”
“Highway view is pretty useful.”
Note: Users advise manually entering navigation markers and being cautious using rechargeable batteries due to shorter runtimes.
Conclusion
The Garmin GPS 73 is a no-frills, durable, and reliable handheld GPS crafted for marine adventurers and sailors. Its longevity, sailing-specific tools, simple interface, and rugged design make it a solid backup or primary navigation tool for serious and casual users alike.
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