Zeus3S 12
Best high-performance chartplotter for serious competitive sailors.
Navigate with confidence using the B&G Zeus 3S-16, a high-performance sailing chartplotter built for serious navigators. Its brilliant 16-inch SolarMax IPS touchscreen offers exceptional clarity in all conditions, powered by a superfast processor for seamless multitasking. Integrated sail-specific tools like SailSteer and Laylines provide a competitive edge. Enjoy versatile control via touchscreen, rotary dial, or keypad, and stay connected with built-in Wi-Fi and NMEA 2000 networking. Preloaded US C-MAP charts ensure you're ready to explore right out of the box.
$4199.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
128
/ 238
#128 in Marine Chartplotters & GPS
Price vs Category Average
+120%
Above average
Display Size
16.0
/ inches
Who it's for
- Competitive sailors needing rapid data processing and seamless navigation
- Outdoor navigators requiring perfect visibility in harsh marine conditions
- Tactical racers and cruisers seeking advanced performance analytics
Who should skip it
- Owners preferring a mix-and-match approach to marine electronics
- Budget-conscious boaters looking for standard navigation hardware
- Casual powerboaters overwhelmed by complex, specialized sailing tools
Performance breakdown
Sailing Intelligence
SailSteer and Laylines provide a distinct tactical advantage for serious racers.
Display Clarity
SolarMax IPS screen remains perfectly readable under harsh, direct marine sunlight.
System Responsiveness
The upgraded processor eliminates lag during complex chart panning and multitasking.
Control Versatility
Hybrid interface ensures reliable operation in rough seas or wet conditions.
System Integration
NMEA 2000 and Ethernet ports make connecting external sensors remarkably straightforward.
Durability
IPX7 rating guarantees survival against heavy spray and accidental water immersion.
Key Specs
Display Size
16.0 inches
Display Resolution
1280 x 1920 pixels
Processor
Superfast
Connectivity
WIFI, NMEA 2000, Ethernet
GNSS Receiver
Internal 10Hz
Ethernet Ports
2
XSONIC Ports
2 (9-Pin)
Mounting Type
Dash Mount Kit included
Features
- Ultra-fast processor for seamless performance
- Brilliant 16-inch all-weather touchscreen display
- Advanced sail-specific navigation tools
- Built-in Wi-Fi for connectivity and updates
- Intuitive control via touch, dial, or keypad
- NMEA 2000 networking for system integration
- Preloaded US C-MAP charts for immediate use
- Supports radar and autopilot integration
What customers say
The Zeus3S 12 earns high praise, especially for its speed and specialized sailing tools. Users consistently note the instantaneous chart redraws and feature switching, powered by the S3 processor, which is vital in competitive sailing. The SolarMAX HD display offers superior clarity and viewing angles, even in bright sunlight or while wearing polarized lenses. Core sailing functions like SailSteer and layline calculations are considered best in class, providing actionable data that boosts performance and safety. Build quality is viewed as robust and reliable for harsh marine conditions. While the initial cost is high, experienced sailors find the exceptional speed and professional grade functionality deliver strong overall value.
Know before you buy
Yes. The unit features a hybrid interface that combines a responsive touchscreen with a physical rotary dial and keypad, allowing you to maintain full control even in rough conditions or when the screen is wet.
The Zeus3S 16 is highly compatible with NMEA 2000 and Ethernet networking, allowing it to connect seamlessly with your autopilot, radar, and other onboard sensors for a unified navigation experience.
The SolarMax IPS display is specifically engineered for marine environments, offering high-contrast visibility and wide viewing angles that remain clear and readable even under intense, direct sunlight.
This unit includes dedicated B&G sailing software such as SailSteer and Laylines, which visualize wind shifts, laylines, and heading data directly on your chart to help you optimize your course and performance.
Absolutely. It carries an IPX7 waterproof rating and is built to withstand a wide range of temperatures, from extreme winter conditions to tropical heat, making it a reliable choice for serious offshore navigation.
Yes, the Zeus3S 16 is compatible with a variety of chart providers, including Navionics, giving you the flexibility to choose the mapping data that best suits your specific cruising or racing region.
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Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$4199