Our binocular review takes a hard look at a number of waterproof binoculars specifically suited to the rigors of the marine environment. A marine binocular is an expensive but essential piece of marine safety gear. Boatmen on all vessels should keep a pair close at hand whenever they are on the helm. Being able to clearly make out and classify anything that comes within range of your boat be it a ship, raft, a piece of flotsam or jetsam, or simply a nearby shoreline makes for a safe passage and peace of mind.
Binocular testing at sea.
Experience has shown that binoculars with a maximum magnification of 7x power are best suited for the rough and tumble motion sometimes found aboard a boat at sea. When coupled with a large 50-millimeter front lens this combination has proven to be the ideal setup for viewing objects at a distance aboard a boat especially in low light conditions. That’s why our binocular review is very specific in coverage. A good pair of 7 x 50 binoculars will serve well to aid the navigator in identifying landmarks, markers, and hazards as well as provide stellar service to bird chasing fishermen. We will help you know what to look for when making a marine binocular purchase.
Buying Tips
Boaters need and use binoculars for many reasons, the most important of which involves the safe operation of your boat. Mariners should use them to read and confirm the numbers on a navigation marker when needed or to identify navigation lights on a ship or boat at night. Fishermen use binoculars to scan the horizon for breaking fish or birds diving on bait pushed upby predators lurking below.
Cost
First, let’s talk price, what is out there and how much will it cost you. Marine binoculars range in price from about $100 to over $1000, depending on features, construction quality, lens materials, and water-resistance capabilities.
Lens Size and Magnification
There are two numbers that help identify a couple of important binocular characteristics. The first number is the magnification factor provided by the binocular. The second is the measurement in millimeters of the objective lens, the large opening at the front. The most popular marine binoculars will be rated 7 x 50, this means the magnification is seven times what you would see with the naked eye and the objective or front lens is 50 millimeters in diameter.
The higher the magnification power of binoculars, the more difficult it is to continue to get a good clear image. Odd, but true. A magnification of seven times should be more than adequate for most situations and is considered the maximum magnification usable on a small boat.
Waterproof Rating
Next up is waterproof construction. Binoculars that are not w