Garmin Sweeps Marine Industry Honors at IBEX 2026

The Signal VHF 400 took top honors in the OEM Electronics category at the IBEX Innovation Awards. Judges selected the device from a pool of 100 entries, citing its integration of VHF, DSC, and Class B SOTDMA AIS transponder technology into a single, compact touchscreen unit. The radio’s versatile installation profile, compatible with both 12V and 24V systems, proved decisive in the competition managed by the National Marine Manufacturers Association.

Beyond hardware, the Sea Tow Foundation presented Garmin with its Best Boating Safety Product award for the OnBoard system. This wireless man-overboard detection technology monitors up to eight tagged individuals, automatically triggering engine shutdowns if a captain falls overboard. This win marks the sixth consecutive year the company has been recognized for its commitment to recreational safety.

Soundings Trade Only also honored the manufacturer with an EPIC Award for Development & Technology. The judges highlighted a surge in company-wide output, noting 15 distinct product launches during the eligibility window. Garmin placed fourth on the publication’s list of Top 10 Most EPIC Companies, an assessment that evaluates overall corporate processes, workforce initiatives, and industry-wide transformation rather than individual product performance.