Raymarine presents the Axiom 2, the next generation of its chart plotter series. The successor to the Axiom plotter works with a six-core processor and starts up ten per cent faster. The LightHouse Charts GEN 2 renders charts 30 per cent faster than the previous version.
Raymarine is one of the established manufacturers of navigation electronics and serves sailors, motorboaters and anglers alike. The Axiom series has established itself as a mid-range plotter - more powerful than entry-level devices, but priced below the high-end systems. With the Axiom 2, Raymarine is updating its hardware and software. A six-core processor and very easy-to-read display were previously only used in the Axiom 2 Pro. The focus is on faster performance: from system start-up to the rendering of nautical charts and the integration of apps and sensors. The devices are available to order now and come with a three-year warranty.
Six-core processor and gigabit network
The Axiom 2 works with a six-core processor which, according to Raymarine, enables ten per cent faster start times. This sounds like a marginal improvement, but it is noticeable when the plotter is rebooted at the start of every trip. More important is the 30 per cent faster display of nautical charts. When zooming or moving the chart, the system should react more smoothly - previous generations sometimes showed jerks or delays when zooming quickly into detailed areas.
The gigabit network enables faster data exchange between plotters, radar, echo sounders, autopilots and other devices in the NMEA 2000 network. Especially with radar or sonar data, which generate large amounts of data, the higher bandwidth should ensure a smoother display. The expanded memory capacity allows the installation of over 30 apps - from weather apps and entertainment streaming to lighting control and ship monitoring.
The LightHouse operating system integrates all functions into one interface. Chartplotter, sonar, radar, autopilot and video are seamlessly integrated. It is operated via a touchscreen which, according to Raymarine, responds well even when wet - an important point for plotters that are mounted in the cockpit and exposed to splash water.
LightHouse Charts GEN 2
The new LightHouse Charts GEN 2 are included in the scope of delivery. They render three times faster than the previous generation and enable smooth zooming and panning of the map. Coverage has been expanded to include more inland waterways, lakes, rivers and detailed harbour charts. The map catalogue continues to grow and covers North America, Europe, the Mediterranean, South America, South Africa and Asia.
The presentation of the charts is a matter of personal preference - some sailors prefer the look of Navionics, others swear by C-Map or the in-house Raymarine charts. The LightHouse charts offer solid coverage and good depth of detail. Additional chart packages can be purchased for specialised areas. The charts are updated regularly and updates can be downloaded via WLAN.
HydroTough display and water protection
The display is coated with HydroTough nano. This coating is designed to make the surface more resistant to scratches and abrasion. Plotters in the cockpit are exposed to sun, salt and occasional knocks - a robust surface extends their service life. IPX6 certification means protection against strong water jets from all directions. The plotter can therefore also withstand spray or downpours.
The brightness of the display is crucial for readability in direct sunlight. Raymarine promises good readability even in bright daylight. The three display sizes - 7, 9 and 12 inches - correspond to diagonals of around 18, 23 and 30 centimetres. The choice depends on the space available and the preferred display: Larger displays show more map detail, but require more mounting space.
Two models: with and without sonar
The Axiom 2 is available in two versions. The basic version comes without integrated sonar and is aimed at sailors and motor boaters who do not need a fishfinder or already have a separate echo sounder. The RV version (RealVision) integrates a 600-watt sonar with CHIRP technology. This can be used to localise schools of fish and assess the bottom hardness.
RealVision technology combines DownVision (looking down), SideVision (side scan) and RealVision 3D for a three-dimensional visualisation of the subsurface. This is helpful for anglers to identify structures such as submerged trees, rocks or underwater edges where fish are present. The sonar version is less relevant for normal cruising sailors, unless you anchor frequently and want to check the bottom before anchoring.
Integration and apps
The Axiom 2 integrates the most important engine manufacturers. Data such as engine speed, cooling water temperature, oil pressure and fuel consumption can be displayed directly on the plotter. Exactly which engines are supported can be viewed on the Raymarine website - typically Volvo Penta, Yanmar, Mercury, Suzuki and others are represented.
App integration enables the installation of third-party software. Weather apps show forecasts and weather maps, streaming apps provide music or podcasts, monitoring apps show tank levels or battery statuses. The selection depends on the respective app store. Raymarine is working with various providers to expand the range.
Availability and price
The Axiom 2 was unveiled at the Palm Beach International Boat Show in March 2026 and is now available to order. The smallest 7-inch version costs €1,184 without a chart and without sonar, the medium size €1,898 and the 12-inch version €3,564.
Raymarine offers a three-year warranty on the Axiom 2 - more than the usual two years offered by many competitors. The Axiom 2 is available from Raymarine dealers and the webshop.
Technical data:
- 6-core processor
- 10 % faster start-up time
- 30 % faster map rendering
- Gigabit network
- Extended memory
- LightHouse operating system
Display:
- Sizes: 7, 9, 12 inch
- HydroTough nano coating
- IPX6 waterproof
- Touchscreen (even in wet conditions)
- High brightness for sunlight
Nautical charts:
- LightHouse Charts GEN 2
- 3x faster rendering
- Coverage: North America, Europe, Mediterranean, South America, South Africa, Asia
- Updates via WLAN
- Expandable with additional packages
Sonar (RV version only):
- 600 W integrated sonar
- CHIRP technology
- RealVision 3D
- DownVision
- SideVision
Integration:
- Radar
- Echo sounder
- Autopilot
- Video
- Motor integration (main brands)
- Over 30 apps available
Guarantee:
- 3 years
Models:
- Axiom 2 (without sonar)
- Axiom 2 RV (with 600W sonar)
Availability:
- Available to order now
- Price: from 1,184 euros
- Website: https://www.raymarine.com
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Michael Rinck
Redakteur Test & Technik
