Exploring Navily: A Comprehensive Review After Extensive Testing

As Navily celebrates its 10th anniversary and reaches 1 million users, I took the opportunity to test this app extensively during my boating trip in Croatia within the last weeks. I used the app on my iPhone and iPad. The experience has been eye-opening – it is a strong ‘thumbs-up’ and from my pov a ‘must-use’ app - here's what I found.

User-Friendly Interface

Navily’s interface is intuitive, even for beginners. From the moment you open the app, the clean design and logical navigation make it easy to explore and access various features. It is absolutely self-explaining.

Anchorage and Marina Database

One of Navily’s standout features is its extensive database of anchorages and marinas. The app includes over 20,000 anchorages and 5,000 marinas across the globe, all enriched by user-generated reviews, photos, and ratings. This community-driven aspect ensures that you get real, up-to-date information from fellow sailors, making it easier to find the perfect spot to dock or anchor.

I have used it during my trip for marinas, buoy fields and places to anchor. I used it to plan my stops and to get specific information. I have to say that most of the information was already very accurate and in addition, the comments and reviews from the community were extremely helpful for me.

Booking Berths

Navily simplifies the often tedious task of booking berths. The app allows you to book directly through the platform at numerous marinas worldwide. The booking process is straightforward, and the app even provides a confirmation in real-time, which eliminates the uncertainty of securing a spot during peak seasons.

This is a great feature and simplified the trip for me. Even for buoy fields you find inside the app contact numbers, so you can make a reservation upfront where needed. Same for marinas which do not yet accept direct booking through the app. The contact information inside the app is already extremly helpful.

Real-Time Weather and Route Planning

Navily’s weather updates and route planning features are impressive. The app offers real-time weather information, including wind speed, wave height, and forecasts, which are critical for safe navigation. The route planning tool is particularly useful, allowing you to plot your course with precision, taking into account potential hazards and optimal paths.

I used this feature a lot to select the right place to stay overnight. I find it very helpful. It gives you a general good level of information. Of course you should combine it with other apps such as for example windy.

Community and Social Features

Navily’s social features set it apart from other boating apps. The ability to connect with other sailors, share experiences, and even ask for advice on the platform fosters a sense of community. You can follow friends, see their activity, and even get notified when they leave a review of a marina or anchorage you’re interested in.

This is something I’d like to strongly underline and I have not seen this somewhere else. Navily allowed me to see other sailors in my area and to connect with them. I used this very often before starting to navigate for example to a buoy field. I simply connected with other sailors to check, if there are still buoys available or to check, if they recommend the place. The responsiveness was a surprise for me. I always got nearly an immediate response. This was extremly helpful for me.

Here is the full view when you select for example a buoy field:

Safety Features

Safety is a priority with Navily. The app provides information on nearby coastguard stations and other emergency services. Additionally, the community reviews often highlight safety concerns or tips, giving you extra peace of mind when sailing in unfamiliar waters.

Offline Functionality

For sailors venturing into areas with limited connectivity, Navily offers offline access to maps and key information. This feature ensures you’re never without crucial data, even when you’re off the grid.

In summary, the top features of Navily are:

• Interactive cruising guide
• Anchorage recommendations and reviews
• Marina booking system
• Community-based information sharing
• Weather forecast integration
• Customized filters for search
• Safety information and protection index
• Photos and visuals of locations
• Offline mode
• Real-time positioining and navigation tools
• Multi-device synchronization

Conclusion: A Decade of Excellence

For me, Navily is part of my must-have toolbox of apps for any boating trip. Thank you to Navily, Edouard and the complete team to allow me to test the app! Thank you for the fast support when I had questions!

Testing Navily has shown why it has become an indispensable tool for over a million sailors worldwide. The app’s user-friendly design, extensive database, real-time updates, and strong community features make it a must-have for both novice and experienced sailors alike.

As Navily celebrates its 10th year, it’s clear that this app is more than just a navigation tool; it’s a sailing companion that continues to innovate and grow, promising even more exciting developments in the future.

What’s your view? Are you using or did you use Navily? What are your experiences? Share within the comments section. I would be very much interested to hear from you!

Watch out for further articles where I am testing boating apps. My next trip: End of October 2024 again Croatia - this time in the Split area on a Lagoon 42.