- Crest and Balise, the two pontoon brands under MasterCraft Boat Holdings, have announced a partnership with marine navigation app Savvy Navvy to bring a far more familiar experience to the helm.
- The integrated helm system was demonstrated during Crest Marine's annual dealer meeting on Michigan's Lake Lansing, where attendees were able to test the integrated experience on the water.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with Savvy Navvy support will come standard on all new Balise pontoons, along with Crest’s Conquest and Caribbean models scheduled to launch next month.
- Rollout begins with the 2027 model year. Customers purchasing eligible 2027 boats will receive Savvy Navvy Premium, unlocking the app’s complete collection of navigation tools instead of the standard version.
MasterCraft Boat Holdings is revolutionizing the pontoon boating experience by integrating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into select 2027 models. This partnership with Savvy Navvy aims to provide a seamless navigation experience, akin to that of modern vehicles.1
Beginning with the 2027 model year, owners of new Balise and Crest pontoons will have access to the Savvy Navvy app, which offers features such as nautical charts, GPS tracking, weather forecasts, and intelligent route planning directly on their boat's display. This integration allows users to plan trips on their phones before arriving at the marina, with routes automatically appearing once connected at the helm.45
The new system was showcased at Crest Marine’s annual dealer meeting on Michigan’s Lake Lansing, where attendees experienced the integrated navigation firsthand. “Boaters have been asking for a modern infotainment system for years,” said Savvy Navvy CEO Jelte Liebrand. “Plan your trip on the couch, step aboard, and it is already at the helm.”
With over three million downloads globally, Savvy Navvy is one of the most popular marine navigation apps. The integration of CarPlay and Android Auto marks a significant step in closing the technology gap between cars and boats, making the helm experience more familiar and connected for users.
Customers purchasing eligible 2027 boats will receive Savvy Navvy Premium, unlocking the app’s complete navigation tools, enhancing their boating experience significantly.
“The integration runs through Savvy Navvy, an app with more than three million downloads that becomes standard on new Balise and Crest Conquest and Caribbean models. “Plan your trip on the couch, step aboard, and it is already at the helm,” says Savvy Navvy CEO Jelte Liebrand.”
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