A nautical smartwatch from Garmin can handle two-way satellite and cellular connectivity, giving mariners access to text messaging, voice calling and SOS capabilities without a cell phone connection.

The Quatix 8 Pro is equipped with InReach technology and has essential marine features to control the vessel. The watch’s enhanced boat mode brings boating apps to the forefront when mariners are out on the water, then hides those features while they’re ashore.

Available in a 47mm case, it includes a bright 3.6cm AMOLED display, a durable titanium bezel, scratch resistant sapphire lens and long battery life, making it a companion on and off the water.

“From fishing to fitness, wakesurfing to weight lifting, Quatix 8 Pro helps keep mariners connected through every part of their day, even when bringing a smartphone along isn’t practical or possible,” said Susan Lyman, Garmin vice president. “With satellite and LTE connectivity on the wrist, mariners can feel more at ease knowing they can stay in touch with family and friends or get help if needed. And with the upgraded boat mode, it’s easier for them to access the features they need, when they need them.”

With built-in InReach technology (www.garmin.com/en-US/inreach-technology-for-watches/), the watch helps mariners stay in touch and have more peace of mind when their voyages take them off the grid, even up to 80km offshore.

Using a satellite connection, they can send messages and location check-ins, while staying on top of changing weather forecasts, with no phone connection required. Cellular connectivity gives mariners access to voice calling, voice messaging and LiveTrack location sharing. And with SOS capabilities, they can trigger an SOS message to get help from the round-the-clock-staffed Garmin Response coordination centre, with experience coordinating more than 1200 InReach incidents on the water.

The enhanced boat mode makes it easier for mariners to control the helm while on the water and navigate to the activities they want while on land. When activated, boat mode brings vital vessel-connected apps to the forefront, providing quick access to autopilot, trolling motor and other boating data right from the watch face. When boat mode is deactivated and it’s time to head to the office, the gym or anywhere in between, users can get the apps and everyday connected features they want back in focus in their menus and watch face.

Designed for life on and off the water, it has a suite of dedicated marine features, including chart plotter voice commandsand remote control over entertainment and lighting systems, Force trolling motors and more, along with round-the-clock health and wellness monitoring, more than 100 activities such as wakesurfing and water skiing, navigation features, and Garmin Pay.

Available to purchase on www.garmin.com, the Quatix 8 Pro (www.garmin.com/en-US/p/1986622/) has a suggested retail price of $1300 and gets up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode.

Check garmin.com/quatix8procoverage for requirements and to see which services are accessible in a specific area or in different countries. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit satellite communication devices.