Re: Essential instruments. what do you have?
I have an outboard powered fishing boat, and to me the essential engine gauges are tach, hour meter, and gps speed. There are alarms for temp and oil so thats fine. As far as navigation, a good bottom machine, compass, and gps navigation (particularly if you boat at night) are important. Inboard boats as well as high performance setups need more engine monitoring, of course.
I have an outboard powered fishing boat, and to me the essential engine gauges are tach, hour meter, and gps speed. There are alarms for temp and oil so thats fine. As far as navigation, a good bottom machine, compass, and gps navigation (particularly if you boat at night) are important. Inboard boats as well as high performance setups need more engine monitoring, of course.