Securing the iPad on board

Properly securing your iPad on board.

A proper tablet mount should ensure a secure attachment to the cockpit while allowing for easy removal to facilitate movement on board. There are solutions for this!

Why secure my tablet while navigating?

Your iPad is well protected in its waterproof case, equipped with a navigation app and the marine chart of the area, and you are ready to sail! However, have you thought about securing it on board properly?

In good weather, it's possible to place the precious device on the cockpit bench or under the spray hood, but as soon as navigation becomes challenging, such as when sailing upwind in rough seas, tacking in a channel, or during a port or starboard tack, the shocks and sudden movements require a solid attachment.

The same question arises for motorboats: how to keep an eye on the iPad when speeding at 30 knots through the waves?

Specifications for a Good Mount

The helmsman must be able to view and manipulate the iPad from the helm position while being able to move with the device when not at the helm, in order to monitor the progress of navigation or perform AIS watch, for example.

Therefore, a good mounting system must:

allow for one-handed access and manipulation of the iPad from the helm
enable easy detachment of the iPad, whether to examine a detail, transport it to the chart table, or simply remove it when leaving the boat
be repositionable if possible, to allow the iPad to be mounted in different locations on the boat: on both sides of the cockpit on a wide boat, at the chart table, or even near the bunk to watch a movie at anchor! A repositionable system can also be more easily taken to another boat, for instance for a rental or a regatta.
be incredibly reliable!

The Possible Solutions

To meet the specifications mentioned, several options are feasible:

Place the iPad in a waterproof case and store it in a cockpit pouch or a bag, equipping it with a handle for easy grip and a lanyard for security. Although this requires the use of both hands to manipulate, it is sufficient to check the course and is a method commonly used by solo sailors.
Attach the iPad to oneself with a strap, either as a shoulder strap or around the neck, which offers total freedom of movement. This method is favored by regatta tacticians to prevent the fastening system from hindering maneuvers.
Securely install the iPad in the cockpit on a removable mount, ideally on an articulated arm, allowing for angle adjustment to avoid glare or to turn it towards oneself after a change of tack. This solution is the most suitable for recreational sailing.

Here are some examples:

Fixation on a tube with a double U base.

Hanging Solutions on the Boat

Regarding the hanging system on the boat, it will need to be adapted according to the support and the configuration of the cockpit.

Suction Cup Mounting

This is a reliable solution as long as high-quality suction cups are used and there is a flat, smooth surface. The single, double, or triple suction cup systems sold at iTabNav hold perfectly on any flat gel-coat surface, even vertical ones. This system has only advantages, as it can be taken anywhere and disassembled each time you leave the boat.

Tube Mounting

To mount on a tube, a clamp base or a double-U base is used, which is positioned on a tubular support, such as a handrail, to attach an articulated arm. This method is commonly used for wheelbarrow consoles or handrails in motor boating. There is also a removable version, the vice clamp base.

Articulated Arms

The articulated arms allow for the connection between the mounting system and the iPad case, and enable the orientation of the iPad to optimize readability. The RAM arms sold at iTabNav are particularly reliable and can be tightened/loosened with a simple half-turn of the knob. The rubber coating on the support ball ensures sufficient grip to guarantee the position remains locked even with moderate tightening, providing great comfort of use. They can be mounted alone or on a suction cup or tube mount.

Round base

The round bases, sold separately, can be fixed onto any surface using screws. It is possible to position several bases in "strategic" locations on the boat (port cockpit, starboard cockpit, chart table) to attach the articulated arm by turning its knob. The main drawback is the necessity to drill, which is not feasible on a rented boat. It is good to know that articulated arms are often sold with two round bases included (check the description of each model).

aiShell Case Mounting Solutions

The iPad, secured in its case, should be easily transportable or attachable to the selected mount. The aiShell series from Andres Industries currently offers the most comprehensive range of mounting solutions.

Quick Snapper "Quicksnapper"

For each size of aiShell shell, a special bracket (Quicksnapper) is available, allowing for instant attachment and detachment with one hand, while ensuring a completely secure fixation. It's the most convenient system.

Powered Bracket "Car Cradle"

The powered Car Cradle bracket is an ingenious support that allows for quick attachment and charging of the iPad. Every time the iPad is placed back, it charges while maintaining complete freedom of movement and without compromising waterproofing.

Strap or Handle

aiShell cases can be equipped with a rear or side handle, or a shoulder strap, all of which are easily removable.

Direct attachment to the shell

The aiShell cases are equipped with four screws inserted at the back, allowing them to be directly mounted on an articulated arm. To remove the iPad, simply unscrew the knob from the arm. However, this solution is not optimal as one of the plates will remain attached to the case, preventing it from being laid flat on a table. The solution with a quick-release bracket or a powered bracket (see above) is vastly preferable.

Our kits with mounting

It is not always easy to determine the necessary parts and their compatibility to assemble a complete solution for a boat.

That's why we have created kits that include a waterproof hull and a suction mount or tube mount, available in each description of the aiShell hulls.

Additionally, a compatibility guide has been developed to make your choice easier. :)