Tide and current predictions, marina locations, and points of interest data are not provided by NavSim but are integrated through C–Map cartography or by importing Maptech data files. For example, C–Map MAX charts have the option of overlaying colored arrows showing direction and intensity of currents. Unfortunately the C–Map granularity is not very helpful at higher current velocities. Although the color scheme begins with one–knot increments (yellow, darker yellow, orange), all currents between three and 10 knots are lumped together with a red arrow. In most vessels, there is a huge difference between a three–knot current and a 10–knot current. Tide stations are shown with a "T" icon; double–clicking brings up a tidal chart. BoatCruiser does not support GRIB file weather downloads.NavSimFuel consumption may be entered on an X-Y graph or in an Excel-like spreadsheet. Fuel cost ($4.00 in our example) is entered in Tool>Options.

In addition to the basics, BoatCruiser has several innovative additional features, including their TimeMachine, Fuel Cost and Consumption Calculator, SailTimer (SailCruiser only), and Auto Chart Update Module.

TimeMachine is basically a simulation feature, which lets you run a course backward or forward in time. With BoatCruiser in Playback mode (as opposed to Real Time mode), trips that were recorded can be reviewed. You can also simulate a passage in a future time frame. The TimeMachine displays daylight information, tidal data, trajectories and any alarms you have set. A time frame is attached to every event or action that is relevant to navigation. You can quickly alter the time scale of your simulation from a span of months to seconds by scrolling with the mouse or zooming in or out with the "+" or "–" keys.

The Fuel Cost and Consumption Calculator is a great feature for power boaters. You begin by entering your vessel's fuel consumption information and local fuel prices (see photo). If you are not sure of your fuel use over all speeds, you can enter your gallons per hour as points on an X–Y graph. BoatCruiser will interpolate between the points to assign an estimate of fuel consumption. Estimates of your fuel use and costs are then available by double–clicking on a route and selecting Properties (see photo).NavSimMotoring at 10 knots, the 50-nautical-mile trip from Miamarina to Weech's Bimini Dock would consume 46.7 gallons of fuel and cost $186.80.

SailCruiser replaces the Fuel Cost and Consumption Calculator with SailTimer, a module developed by Craig Summers of Indepth Navigation (see link). This feature automatically calculates the optimal tacking routes and angles given wind direction and boat speed (see photo). Tacking routes are clearly displayed on the chart, with tacks shown as red laylines. SailTimer also calculates Tacking Time to Go to Destination (TTG) and Estimated Time to Arrival (ETA). Polars are also displayed, beginning with default calculations averaged across all sailboats (see photo). If you know the performance characteristics of your sailboat in different wind conditions, you can add that information to increase the accuracy of the polar plots.

If you are a sailboat that also motors on long cruises, a recent upgrade includes an option for switching routes between sailing and motoring. When sailing, TTG and ETA are based on tacking and wind conditions. When motoring, they are based on straight line calculations.

The Auto Chart Update Module is an upcoming feature based on NavSim's MapServer (see link). MapServer started in 2004 as a way for NavSim users to obtain individual BSB charts rather than purchasing an entire Maptech CD. When NOAA and the USACE began distributing those same charts for free through their websites, MapServer lost much of its value.

But, capitalizing on MapServer's utility, NavSim is about to integrate free automated chart updating into their software products. This new feature, called the Auto Chart Update Module, would direct BoatCruiser or SailCruiser to compare the charts you have loaded with updated chart offerings and automatically download new editions. According to NavSim, this feature will cost $49 after the free Christmas promotion that ends January 6, 2008.

ASSESSMENTNavSimSailTimer displays the best tacking choices for given waypoints. Polar plots and boat instrument data complement chart and "highway" views.

NavSim's challenge will be to adapt its excellent marine research ideas into a product that is ready for a retail recreational boating audience. Recreational boaters demand e–charting software that is trouble–free. They are out on their boats for recreation–and will not tolerate computer hassles during their limited free time.

Although it's not there yet, BoatCruiser should eventually reach this goal. It is strongly positioned as one of the few navigation packages that supports C–Map cartography. But, as it stands now, BoatCruiser tosses out some lofty terms a bit prematurely. In short, our sense is that marketing is ahead of engineering on many of BoatCruiser's features. But we think in time they'll tune their features to match the chutzpah.

Our optimism stems from NavSim's exceptional responsiveness to user feedback. Every month, NavSim incorporates user feedback from online forums and emails into a new software release (see link). The updates are available free in perpetuity for the product. Each release builds on BoatCruiser and SailCruiser, fixing bugs, improving existing features and adding new functionality. With these constant improvements–and hopefully the commitment to a bona fide User Manual–BoatCruiser should evolve into a product ready for prime time.