Cortex Onboard

The idea of the Cortex is fantastic but the execution leaves much to be desired. I’m in tech and have spent more than a day trying to get this to function correctly. It seems to be both an issue with the WiFi hardware (weak signal even standing next to it) and the software. State management seems to be an issue and the WiFi networking will make you tear your hair out. And good luck trying to use the boat network. This needs lots more investment from Garmin to justify the price and make it a recommended buy. For now, skip it.

Garmin tech support barely know they own Vesper. The onboard app has never worked and a Garmin can’t or won’t be bothered to help despite repeated attempts and replacement hardware. The VHF is glitchy and I can’t honestly say I trust it. We often get disconnect alarms, usually in the middle of the night, often during passages, disconcerting to say the least. Hopefully Garmin take this product seriously and supply the necessary support and updates.

IMO Vesper is the best marine hardware and software company out there. Everything they do exudes quality, care, and thoughtful consideration. Cortex is no exception, and is a central and critical piece of safety equipment aboard my sailboat. Vesper support is excellent, they’ve been very receptive and responsive to suggestions, and continually rolling out improvements. I do hope all of these positive qualities continue following the Garmin acquisition.

Great tool to use with the Cortex onboard the boat. The Anchor Watch is the best on the market!