A suitable tablet mount should ensure secure attachment to the cockpit, while allowing easy removal to facilitate on-board movement. There are solutions for this!
Your iPad is safely protected in its waterproof case, ready with a navigation application and the local nautical chart, and you're ready to sail! But have you thought about securing it on board?
When the weather's fine, you can put the precious device on the cockpit bench or under the companionway cover, but as soon as the going gets rough, as when sailing close-hauled in rough seas, when weaving in and out of a channel, or when starting off on a luff or head-on, the shocks and sudden movements require a solid mounting.
The same question applies to powerboats: how do you keep an eye on the iPad when you're sailing at 30 knots in the waves?
The navigator must be able to consult and manipulate the iPad from the helm station, while being able to move around with the device when no longer at the helm, in order to monitor navigation progress or perform AIS watch, for example.
A good mounting system should therefore :
To meet the above specifications, several options are available:
Here are a few examples:
The choice of boat-mounting system depends on the type of support and cockpit configuration.
This is a reliable solution, provided you use quality suction cups and a flat, smooth surface. The single, double and triple suction cup systems sold by iTabNav fit perfectly on any flat gel-coat surface, even vertical. This system has nothing but advantages, as it can be taken anywhere, and dismantled every time you leave the boat.
To attach to a tube, we use a collar base or a double-U base which is positioned on a tubular support, such as a handrail, to attach an articulated arm. This method is commonly used for wheel brackets or handrails in motorboating. There's also a removable version, the vice-grip base.
Articulated arms bridge the gap between the attachment system and the iPad shell, and allow the iPad to be oriented for optimum readability. The RAM arms sold by iTabNav are particularly reliable, tightening and loosening with a simple half-turn of the knob. The rubber coating on the support ball provides sufficient grip to ensure that the position is locked even with moderate tightening, making them extremely comfortable to use. They can be mounted alone or on a suction cup or tube support.
Round bases, sold separately, can be attached to any support using screws. Several bases can be positioned in "strategic" locations on the boat (port cockpit, starboard cockpit, chart table), to which the articulated arm can be attached by turning its knob. The main drawback is the need for drilling, which is not an option on a charter boat. It's worth noting that articulated arms are often marketed with two round bases included (consult the description of each model).
The iPad, secured in its case, should be easy to transport or attach to the chosen stand. Andres Industries' aiShell series currently offers the most comprehensive range of mounting solutions.
For every size of aiShell, a special stirrup (Quicksnapper) is available, enabling instant attachment and detachment with just one hand, while guaranteeing completely secure attachment. This is the most convenient system.
TheCar Cradle powered stirrup is an ingenious bracket that both fastens and recharges the iPad. Each time the iPad is replaced, it recharges while retaining complete freedom of movement and without compromising water resistance.
AiShell cases can be fitted witha rear or side handle, or a shoulder strap, all of which are easily removable.
AiShells are equipped with four inserts screwed to the rear, enabling them to be attached directly to an articulated arm. To remove the iPad, simply unscrew the knob on the arm. However, this solution is not optimal, as one of the plates will remain attached to the shell, making it impossible to lay it flat on a table. The solution with a quick-release clamp or a powered clamp (see above) is much preferable.
It's not always easy to determine which parts are needed and how they fit together to assemble a complete boat solution.
That's why we've created packs that include a waterproof hull and a suction cup or tube mount, available in every aiShell hull description.
In addition, a compatibility guide has been drawn up to make your choice easier. :)
