Garmin bolsters marine products portfolio with new acquisition

Electronics giant Garmin has further bolstered its line-up of marine products by acquiring Vesper Marine, a privately-held company specialising in vessel identification systems and marine communications. The financial terms have not been released.

Located in Auckland, New Zealand, Vesper has over the past 15 years developed a suite of products that includes the award-winning Cortex system, which combines VHF radio with a smartAIS transponder and remote vessel monitoring technology.

“Vesper has pioneered a number of innovations in the marine communications space, with recognition across the industry for its emphasis on user-friendly and intuitive interfaces that make it easier to communicate on the water,” said Jarrod Seymour, Garmin Vice President, Marine Segment. “Together, we look forward to providing an unmatched portfolio of integrated marine communications products and services for our customers.”

Carl Omundsen, Vesper’s co-founder said the support of Garmin would allow Vesper to expand its capabilities and make an even greater impact in the boating industry. Vesper will join Garmin’s existing team and facility in Auckland.