Ready to take your boating experience to the next level? If you’re seeking to boost your performance, enhance safety, and upgrade the entertainment on your vessel, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll dive into five essential upgrades that will transform your boat into the ultimate center of enjoyment.

From improving your electronics to upgrading your lighting, these upgrades can help you get the most out of your time on the water. Let’s dive in!

1. Electronics Upgrade

An electronics upgrade is one of the most essential upgrades for any recreational boat. 

Upgrading your boat’s electronics can enhance safety, navigation, and entertainment. The latest chartplotters, for example, come with a range of advanced features that can make boating easier and more enjoyable. Some newer models from brands like Garmin and Simrad offer side-scan sonar, which provides a detailed view of the seafloor and helps you locate fish and other underwater features.

Upgrading to a newer chartplotter can also provide better accuracy and faster processing speeds, giving you more accurate and up-to-date information about your boat’s position and surroundings. Additionally, many newer models are designed with user-friendly interfaces that make it easy to navigate and customize settings.

Take a look at the Garmin GPSMAP 8600 series – it offers a bright, clear display with high-resolution mapping and multiple sonar options, including ClearVü, SideVü, and traditional CHIRP. 

Meanwhile, Simrad’s NSS evo3 series features an easy-to-use touchscreen display with a built-in sounder and support for radar, autopilot, and other advanced features.

By investing in boat electronics upgrades, you unlock a host of advantages that enhance your overall time on the water. Whether you’re eager to discover uncharted territories or maximize your enjoyment on the water, the modern technology available today is worth its (your wallet’s) weight.

2. Dash Panel Replacement

The dash panel on your boat is the control center for all of your boat’s systems, from navigation to lighting. If your boat’s dash panel is outdated or difficult to use, upgrading it can provide a range of benefits. A new dash panel can make it easier to navigate and control your boat’s systems, as well as improve its overall appearance.

At New Wire Marine, we specialize in crafting custom dash panels tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Our experienced team of craftsmen understand the importance of a well-designed and reliable dash panel. Whether you’re looking for a sleek and modern design or a vintage-inspired aesthetic, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life.

When considering a dash panel replacement, there are a variety of options available to suit your needs and budget. Sleek and modern push button switches have become a popular option for boat owners looking to upgrade their dash panel. Additionally, the modern “blackout dash” style has become very popular on newer boats and can add a contemporary look to even most vintage consoles.

The dash panel plays a crucial role in both the aesthetics and functionality of your boat. Upgrading this prominent focal point not only enhances its visual appeal but also boosts the overall value of your vessel. By introducing a fresh dash panel design from New Wire Marine, you can ensure safety and style.

Ready to transform your boat’s dash panel? Let our team create a custom dash that exceeds your expectations! Get started on your upgrade today by requesting a quote:

We value your time – choose from the 5 minute RFQ if you’re on the move, or the 15-20 minute RFQ if you’re ready to give us some details.

3. Sound Systems

A high-quality sound system can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying your time on the water. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a relaxing day on the boat, or fishing with friends, a great sound system can enhance your experience and create a memorable atmosphere.

When it comes to upgrading your boat’s sound system, there are many options available, ranging from simple speaker replacements to full system overhauls.

Newer sound systems also offer additional benefits over older ones. For example, some sound systems include advanced noise-cancellation technology that can improve sound quality even in noisy environments. Others may include wireless controls or remote access via a smartphone app, allowing you to adjust the volume and other settings from anywhere on your boat.

Speaker Zoning

A popular option we’ve seen on newer, midsize hulls is speaker zoning. Zoning allows for differing volumes by boat area.

For example, a video we recently covered on the Blackfin 400CC mentions the zoning on deck by JL Audio. In the Center Consoles Only video, he says:

“…you’ve got a forward seat lounger this looks like, [with the] sound system and everything you got going on. [It has] its own zone so that you can control the volume up here different from [depending where you are on the boat] you have the different zones that JL Audio sets up with their MBI amp system.

So you can basically have a party going on up here and be reading a book in the back of the boat. Depending what you got going on, JL Audio can set it up so everyone is comfortable and getting the experience that they want.”

(When describing zoning, we were going to say you can create a “music mullet”… business in the front, party in the back… we’re glad we checked back on the CCO video and let them explain it for us.)

Speaker Rings

A solution you may need when upgrading the audio in your boat are speaker rings.  Sometimes when you add a speaker, folks find that the new speaker is deeper than the gunnel or hardtop void.  We can help with this by fabricating stylish speaker rings to stand the speaker out so it clears the depth in the back.

New Wire can help with custom stereo head unit bezel replacements using acrylic, King Starboard, or any of our material options.

 In addition to upgrading your speakers, other sound system upgrades could be adding a subwoofer for deeper bass, or installing a new stereo head unit with advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity.

Overall, upgrading your boat’s sound system can enhance your time on the water and create a more enjoyable atmosphere for you and your guests. With the variety of options available today, you’re guaranteed to find the upgrades that best fit your needs and budget – whether it’s a simple speaker replacement or a total audio overhaul.

4. Moving Your Batteries Forward

Moving your boat’s batteries forward (usually from a box near the transom to inside the console nearer the switch panel) can provide a multitude of pros, such as improved handling and stability while underway. Many boats have their batteries located at the stern of the boat, which can cause a “tail-heavy” feel and negatively impact the boat’s overall performance.

Moving your boat’s batteries forward can help balance the boat’s weight distribution, resulting in a better ride and improved fuel efficiency. Additionally, it can create more space in the stern of the boat for other equipment or activities.

When moving your boat’s batteries forward, it’s important to ensure that they are properly secured and wired. This may require the installation of new battery boxes, wiring, and other equipment.  New Wire’s new RigPro line of battery management solutions can greatly help with this.  The full RigPro line is in the works, but we’ve launched our Recessed Battery Switch Mounts – the first in the battery management solution series. The mount is an excellent option for your new battery switch location.

Check it out in white…

…and in black:

With the help of a professional installer or knowledgeable boating enthusiast, you can determine the best location for your boat’s batteries and ensure that they are installed safely and securely.

5. High Water Bilge Alarm

A high water bilge alarm is a valuable safety feature for any boat owner. It is connected to a float switch, which detects water in the bilge and sounds an alarm when the water reaches a certain level. This can help alert you to potential flooding or other water-related issues before they cause serious damage.

Installing a high water bilge alarm is a relatively simple process that can be done by most boat owners. The device typically consists of a float switch, an alarm, and a power source. When the water level in the bilge rises to the level of the float switch (which is higher than the normal bilge level), it triggers the alarm and alerts you to the potential issue.

We have developed a high water alarm kit that includes the buzzer and wires leads needed for the install.  This buzzer is very sleek in appearance, complimenting modern dashes much better than the clunky options we’ve come across. Its sound is not (too) annoying, and it features flashing red LED backlighting when the alarm is triggered. 

Our high water alarm can easily be drilled into the dash or incorporated into one of our custom dash panels.

A high water bilge alarm is an important safety feature that can help protect your boat from water damage and other catastrophic problems. Consider installing one on your boat if you haven’t already done so, and make sure to test it regularly to ensure that it is working properly.

From custom wiring solutions to stylish switch/dash panels, our team is dedicated to delivering top-notch craftsmanship to your doorstep. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs and let us bring your vision to life. Take the first step towards a superior boating experience: