#United States #Olathe #Garmin #OnBoard #DAME Design

Garmin OnBoard System Wins 2025 DAME Design Award

Garmin, a leading name in marine electronics renowned for their innovation, showcased their latest achievement with the Garmin OnBoard™ system, awarded the prestigious 2025 DAME Design Award at Metstrade, the largest marine equipment exhibition globally. The DAME awards are known for celebrating excellence in marine equipment design, drawing in remarkable entries from across the world.

The OnBoard system, primarily recognized in the Safety & Security Aboard category, has turned heads not only for its functionality but also for its cutting-edge design. Unlike traditional tethered systems, Garmin has integrated wireless tags into the OnBoard solution, which are designed to enhance safety for all boaters. This innovative approach allows the system to automatically stop the boat if a Man Overboard (MOB) incident is detected. What sets it apart is the ability of these wireless, non-intrusive tags to alert onboard individuals and facilitate a swift response in emergency situations.

Susan Lyman, Garmin's Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing, expressed pride in receiving such a notable award, stating, "Winning a DAME Design Award shines a spotlight on the bold design and innovative technology behind the Garmin OnBoard System. Instead of a traditional tethered design, Garmin OnBoard uses wireless, non-intrusive tags that will bring the boat to a stop and alert those on board if a captain MOB event is detected. We're honored to receive this recognition which further underscores our commitment to making boating not only safer, but more enjoyable for everyone on the water."

The Technology Behind Garmin OnBoard

The technology of Garmin OnBoard is impressive, offering peace of mind for boaters. The system allows owners to wear tags on various items such as wristbands, carabiners, or key rings, with each tag assigned to either the captain or a passenger. This flexibility means that up to eight tags can be utilized, ensuring that every individual or even cherished pets can be safeguarded on board.

When an emergency arises and a person is detected overboard, Garmin OnBoard makes sure the boat will record a waypoint on the chartplotter while sounding audible alarms. In critical moments when a captain is overboard, the system automatically cuts the engine, adding an additional layer of safety. Captains also have the option to disable the engine on their own if necessary through a simple button press on the tag.

Compatible with any boat equipped with an engine cutoff switch and certain Garmin chartplotters, this system adheres to U.S. federal regulations regarding Engine Cutoff Link installation and use. The Garmin OnBoard System is available for a recommended retail price of $499.99, with additional MOB tags priced at $149.99 each.

This award-winning product is just one highlight of Garmin's ongoing commitment to advancing marine safety. Garmin Marine has echoed its success with several recognitions throughout 2025, including accolades from respected organizations such as the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) and the Sea Tow Foundation.

Conclusion

Garmin's achievement with the OnBoard system not only emphasizes the company’s innovative spirit but also exemplifies the technological advancements in marine safety that make boating a more secure and enjoyable experience. As the maritime industry continues to grow, devices like the Garmin OnBoard will undoubtedly become essential for safety-conscious boaters around the globe.

To keep up with Garmin's latest innovations, visit garmin.com/marine for detailed information and updates.