Garmin’s new GPSMAP 1553xsv, launched on June 14, 2025, marks a bold step forward in premium marine electronics. At $8,199 NZD, this 15-inch ultrawide chartplotter is aimed squarely at skippers, sportfishers, and offshore cruisers who want a high-performance navigation tool that maximises screen real estate, customisability, and system integration—without compromising on aesthetics or functionality.
Ultrawide display, ultraprecise clarity
The standout feature is undoubtedly the 15-inch IPS touchscreen, designed in an edge-to-edge glass format. It’s 74% wider than a standard 9-inch unit and delivers improved resolution, colour accuracy, and brightness. Importantly for helm visibility, the display remains clear even when viewed through polarised sunglasses—an essential consideration for New Zealand’s sunlit coastal waters.
The ultrawide layout means you can split the screen in highly configurable ways—running sonar on one side, mapping on the other, and still have room for wind data or engine readouts. Sidebar controls make toggling between views fast and intuitive. It’s a solution built with multitasking in mind.
Built-in sonar and Panoptix support
On the sonar front, the GPSMAP 1553xsv supports 1kW CHIRP traditional sonar and Ultra High-Definition ClearVü™ and SideVü™ scanning sonar, which offer detailed, high-contrast views of fish and structure. While a compatible transducer is required and sold separately, anglers can also integrate Garmin’s Panoptix™ or LiveScope™ systems for live sonar imaging. This flexibility means that whether you’re hunting kingfish around reef drop-offs or quietly working shallows with a soft bait, this unit has you covered.
Preloaded maps and customisation
Navigation-wise, the GPSMAP 1553xsv includes Garmin Navionics+™ charts with Auto Guidance+™, offering coastal and inland coverage right out of the box, along with a one-year subscription for daily updates. For more advanced users, Garmin Navionics Vision+™ is available as an upgrade, unlocking relief shading, satellite overlays, and sonar imagery.
Seamless helm integration
Another strength is system integration. The 1553xsv connects via NMEA 2000®, NMEA 0183, and the Garmin Marine Network, making it compatible with a wide array of onboard systems: autopilots, AIS, radar, VHF, cameras, digital switching, audio, and more. With Garmin’s OneHelm™ feature, users can consolidate controls for multiple third-party systems on a single screen, simplifying the helm station dramatically.
Digital switching integration through EmpirBus™ allows for touchscreen control of lighting, bilge pumps, battery management, and power distribution—ideal for OEM and retrofit installations where helm space and user simplicity are critical.
Angler-friendly features
For anglers using a Force® trolling motor, the chartplotter enables route planning, anchor point control, battery monitoring, and even auto-deployment of smart anchors via connected Power-Pole systems. You can spend more time fishing and less time fiddling with equipment.
SailAssist and Polars for yachts
Sailors are not left out. The GPSMAP 1553xsv includes Garmin SailAssist™ features like laylines, race start line guidance, and enhanced wind displays. Integrated sailing polars help crews sail to their target speeds at optimal angles—useful whether you’re club racing or passage planning.
Mounting options and build quality
Garmin offers both a rear-mount option for clean flush installations and a bail-mount bracket with inset knobs designed to support a “floating” display aesthetic. This flexibility gives boatbuilders and retrofitters alike a bit of creative freedom in layout.
The sleek, modern design—with minimal bezels and edge-to-edge glass—complements contemporary helm stations, especially on powerboats where integrated electronics are expected to look as good as they perform.
Connectivity and smart features
Wi-Fi® support brings mobile integration through the free ActiveCaptain® app, which enables smart notifications, chart updates, user-generated Quickdraw data sharing, and remote access via the Helm™ app. Garmin’s ANT® wireless protocol adds compatibility with wearable devices like quatix® marine smartwatches and wireless wind instruments.
Engine data integration is supported with select Yamaha and Mercury engines, allowing for real-time RPM, fuel, and diagnostic data to be displayed directly on the chartplotter.
For offshore skippers, pairing with a Garmin inReach® satellite communicator adds satellite messaging capabilities, allowing custom messages to be sent from the MFD—even grouped in conversation threads.
Verdict
The Garmin GPSMAP 1553xsv blends size, clarity, and smarts in a single ultrawide package. Its launch brings flagship-level performance to a format that suits larger centre consoles, pilothouses, or flybridge displays. It’s not a budget unit—but for serious users looking for integrated helm control, powerful sonar, and future-ready expandability, it’s a compelling new option in Garmin’s ever-evolving marine electronics lineup.
Garmin GPSMAP 1553xsv at a glance:
Screen size: 15″ ultrawide IPS touchscreen
Sonar: CHIRP traditional, UHD ClearVü/SideVü, Panoptix™ support
Charts: Preloaded Garmin Navionics+ with 1-year updates
Connectivity: NMEA 2000/0183, Garmin Marine Network, Wi-Fi, ANT®
Integration: Autopilot, engine data, digital switching, third-party systems via OneHelm™
Mounting: Rear flush or floating display bracket
RRP: $8,199 NZD
This chartplotter is ready to be the centrepiece of your helm—especially if you need high visibility, flexible screen management, and full-system control in one tidy package.
Learn more: https://www.garmin.com/en-NZ/p/1874521/
