MasterCraft is adding Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support to its pontoon boats, according to a report from Engadget published on Wednesday. The move brings familiar smartphone connectivity features to the helm of the company's recreational watercraft.
The integration allows boaters to access navigation, music, and other phone-based apps directly through the boat's display, similar to how the systems work in modern cars. Engadget reports the feature is being introduced across MasterCraft's pontoon lineup, though the outlet did not specify which models receive it first or whether it will be standard equipment or an optional upgrade.
The announcement follows a broader trend in the marine industry toward adopting automotive-style infotainment systems. Engadget notes that other manufacturers, including Crest Marine and Balise Pontoons, have recently partnered with navigation software firm Savvy Navvy to bring CarPlay to their boats. That partnership was described as an industry first for pontoon vessels, per Business Wire reporting cited in the summary.
For MasterCraft, the addition of CarPlay and Android Auto is part of a push to make the boating experience more intuitive for owners who are already accustomed to smartphone-linked dashboards in their vehicles. The systems typically support turn-by-turn navigation tailored for waterways, as well as hands-free calling and media playback.
As more boatmakers adopt these platforms, the gap between car and boat cockpit technology continues to narrow. The key question now is how quickly other major pontoon brands will follow MasterCraft's lead to stay competitive in the coming model year.
