Garmin 276C Maps?

[Grant Brown]

I just bought a lightly used Garmin 276C and updated the firmware (GPS' internal software) and it works great. Unfortunately the base map has no details at all and is almost useless for marine navigating.

I have been told to invest in Bluecharts for my area (Vancouver BC and Coast).
They look good but does anyone know how get good maps for free and how to install them?

Thanks,
Grant

 

[JB]

Re: Garmin 276C Maps?

No way to get them free as far as I know.

I have the Mapsource DVDs for City Navigator and Recreational Lakes (Midwest) for my 276C.

Go ahead and buy the correct Bluechart DVD or the preloaded card. I found the Rec. Lakes DVD on Ebay for less than half of MSRP.

 

[kaferhaus]

Re: Garmin 276C Maps?

IF you lived in the US and had the USB connector for your Garmin I could help you out... My mapping software doesn't include Canada.

There is a way to download charts straight to the 276 but you need the right file format and the USB connector.

I have the same unit on my sailboat and with good charts it's perfect, just small.

 

[Grant Brown]

Re: Garmin 276C Maps?

Thanks kaferhaus, it's good to know the unit is of decent quality. I bought it used for a very good price off ebay. The PO did not know/care about upgrading the firmware so it was acting pretty "buggy". If you've never upgraded your GPS's software you might want to check out the Garmin web site. I think you need to be careful and be sure you have everything backed up because it can wipe all existing info off the machine.
If you have 'em, I'd be interested in getting maps of WA shoreline.