Marine electronics manufacturer Garmin has received a series of industry honours at the 2026 International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX), including awards for its new VHF radio technology, man-overboard safety equipment and product development.
The US company secured an IBEX Innovation Award for its Signal VHF 400, a National Boating Safety Award for its Garmin OnBoard system and a Soundings Trade Only EPIC Award for Development & Technology.
Garmin was also ranked fourth in the Top 10 Most EPIC Companies, marking its ninth consecutive year among the programme's five highest-ranked businesses.
Integrated VHF and AIS Technology Recognised
The Garmin Signal VHF 400 won the OEM Electronics category at the IBEX Innovation Awards, which drew 100 product entries.
The compact marine communications unit combines VHF radio, Digital Selective Calling (DSC), and a Class B SOTDMA Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponder, all controlled via a colour touchscreen.
Designed for installation at a wide range of helm stations, the equipment supports NMEA 2000 networking and both 12V and 24V electrical systems. Judges also highlighted its separately powered, magnetically mounted first microphone, intended to provide greater flexibility when installing the radio aboard recreational craft.
As reported by Afloat, Garmin introduced the Signal VHF 400 and VHF 220 in May 2026, with the range featuring 3.5-inch colour touchscreens, noise-cancellation technology and radio transmission playback. The VHF 400 was originally announced with a UK recommended retail price of £1,299.99.
Innovation Honours – Garmin's Signal VHF 400, combining touchscreen VHF communications and AIS technology, has won the OEM Electronics category at the IBEX 2026 Innovation Awards. Photo: Garmin
The National Marine Manufacturers Association manages the IBEX Innovation Awards, and Boating Writers International judges them.
Wireless Man-Overboard System Earns Safety Award
Garmin's OnBoard wireless man-overboard detection and engine cutoff system received the Sea Tow Foundation's Best Boating Safety Product or Technology Innovation Award.
The system can monitor up to eight wireless tags worn by people aboard a vessel and alert users when it detects a man-overboard incident.
It can also automatically stop the engine if the person operating the boat falls overboard, reducing the risk associated with an unmanned vessel continuing under power.
The award represents Garmin's sixth consecutive recognition in the Sea Tow Foundation's boating safety awards programme.
For recreational boat owners, including those operating in Irish coastal waters, the marine technology offers an additional safety measure, although it does not replace established man-overboard procedures, appropriate lifejackets or crew training.
Fifteen Product Launches Highlight Development Programme
Garmin also secured the Development & Technology category at the Soundings Trade Only EPIC Awards, which recognise achievements across the recreational marine industry. The programme assesses companies on technology development, innovation, business practices and workforce initiatives rather than focusing exclusively on individual products.
The awards follow Garmin's September marine technology launches covered by Afloat, including its SmartDrive sailboat autopilot for monohulls and catamarans up to 45 feet, the GMI 40 marine instrument and new JL Audio equipment.
Technology Drive – Garmin's marine electronics development programme, including its new JL Audio A60 entertainment system, helped secure the Development & Technology honour at the 2026 Soundings Trade Only EPIC Awards. Photo: Garmin
Garmin was recognised for 15 product launches during the awards' eligibility period.
The EPIC programme takes its name from four characteristics: exceptional, purposeful, innovative and compassionate.
Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing, said the awards reflected the company's continuing investment in marine technology.
"These honours reflect the many ways Garmin is working to improve the boating experience, from strengthening communication and safety on the water to developing new technologies that move the industry forward," she said.
"We're proud to see both our products and our broader approach to innovation recognised by so many respected organisations across the marine industry."
The latest recognition follows Garmin's selection as Manufacturer of the Year by the National Marine Electronics Association for the 12th consecutive year.
