Electronics: Garmin quatix 8 Pro, smartwatch for sailors, now with satellite SOS
Hauke Schmidt
· 10.02.2026
The quatix 8 Pro marks a new development step in Garmin's marine smartwatch series. Unlike previous models, which relied on a smartphone connection or separate inReach devices, satellite communication is now integrated directly into the watch. This positions Garmin in the segment between pure sports smartwatches such as its own Fenix series and dedicated emergency devices.
Satellite and LTE communication on the wrist
The central innovation is the inReach technology with dual connectivity: depending on availability, the watch automatically switches between LTE and satellite. Voice calls and LiveTrack location transmission are possible within LTE coverage. The satellite connection is used to exchange text messages and location check-ins with specified people. According to Garmin, the system works up to 80 kilometres off the coast - significantly further than conventional mobile phone networks.
An important difference to the separate inReach devices: The quatix 8 Pro does not use the global Iridium network, but the Skylo satellite network. Coverage is therefore limited to North America and Europe. For trips to Asia, Africa or South America, a separate inReach device remains the recommended solution. In addition, the watch must be correctly aligned for satellite communication - an animation on the display guides the user through the process. Use requires a satellite subscription from around ten euros per month.
In an emergency, the quatix 8 Pro triggers an interactive SOS call to Garmin Response, the 24/7 coordination centre, at the touch of a button. Unlike simple EPIRBs, communication is bi-directional: the coordinators can make enquiries, inform emergency contacts and communicate with search and rescue services. According to the manufacturer, the development is based on almost two decades of experience with more than 1,200 inReach missions on the water.
Remote control and marine integration
The extended boat mode turns the quatix 8 Pro into a remote control for Garmin systems: Autopilot, electric trolling motors and entertainment systems can be controlled directly from the wrist. Navigation is carried out by voice command, provided there is a Bluetooth connection. If boat mode is deactivated, everyday apps and fitness functions appear instead. The 1.4-inch AMOLED display with titanium bezel and sapphire crystal is designed to be readable even in direct sunlight. The integrated speaker and microphone enable voice control and voice communication.
Away from the water, the watch offers comprehensive health and fitness tracking with heart rate measurement, heart rate variability, sleep monitoring, Pulse Ox and numerous sports apps for running, golf and other activities. Smart notifications, music storage and Garmin Pay for contactless payment round off the range of functions. Garmin specifies a battery life of up to 15 days in smartwatch mode and up to 44 hours in GPS mode.
Technical data:
Display and housing:
- Size: 47 mm
- Display: 1.4 inch AMOLED
- Bezel: Titanium
- Glass: Sapphire, scratch-resistant
Communication:
- inReach: Satellite (Skylo) + LTE
- Range: Up to 80 km off the coast
- Functions: Voice calls (LTE), text messages (satellite), LiveTrack, SOS emergency call
- Garmin Response: 24/7 emergency coordination
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Loudspeaker/microphone: Integrated
Navigation and sensors:
- GPS: Multi-GNSS (GPS, Glonass, Galileo)
- Compass: 3-axis
- Barometer: Yes
- Heart rate: visual on the wrist
- Pulse Ox: Yes
Battery:
- Smartwatch mode: Up to 15 days
- GPS mode: Up to 44 hours
Further functions:
- Sports apps: running, golfing, SUP, kayaking and much more.
- Smart features: Notifications, Garmin Pay, music storage
- Health: HRV, sleep tracking, stress level
- Price: 1,300 euros
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Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
Hauke Schmidt was born in Hanau, Hesse, in 1974, but moved to the coast at the age of an Opti and grew up sailing dinghies and tall ships. School and semester breaks were used for extensive Baltic Sea cruises. During and after his oceanography studies in Kiel, he took part in various international research trips to tropical and polar regions. The focus was on ocean currents and their influence on climate change. Eventually he was drawn back to his home coast and to YACHT. He completed a traineeship there and has been working as an editor in the Test & Technology department since 2009. His core tasks include equipment and boat testing, as well as practical topics relating to electronics, seamanship and refits. As a passionate DIY enthusiast, he loves to spend his summers on the water with his family and winters working on his boat
