The Garmin GMR Fantom™ 18x is a compact high-performance solid-state marine radar designed for trailer boats, centre consoles and smaller offshore vessels wanting advanced radar capability in a space-saving package. Featuring MotionScope™ Doppler technology, instant-on performance and exceptional close-range target detection, the Fantom 18x delivers reliable situational awareness for New Zealand boating conditions.
With its compact 18” dome design, the Fantom 18x is ideal for smaller hardtops and boats where mounting space is limited, while still providing the advanced radar performance Garmin’s Fantom range is known for.
Whether navigating in reduced visibility, identifying nearby vessels or locating working birds offshore, the Fantom 18x offers impressive radar clarity and functionality in a compact footprint.
Key Features
- 50W solid-state pulse compression radar
- Compact 18” dome design
- MotionScope™ Doppler technology
- Bird Mode for locating bird activity offshore
- Excellent close-range target separation
- Instant-on operation with no warm-up time
- MARPA target tracking support
- Radar overlay compatibility
- Low power consumption
- Dual range radar capability
MotionScope™ Doppler Technology
Garmin MotionScope technology uses the Doppler effect to detect moving targets and help identify potential collision risks. Targets moving toward or away from your vessel are colour highlighted for improved awareness and safer navigation.
Compact Yet Powerful
The Fantom 18x is designed for vessels where mounting space is limited while still delivering excellent radar performance. Its compact dome size makes it popular for smaller trailer boats and hardtop fishing boats without compromising key radar functionality.
Bird Mode
Bird Mode helps anglers locate feeding birds and bait schools offshore, making it easier to identify productive fishing areas for tuna and pelagic species.
Recommended For
The Garmin Fantom 18x is ideal for:
- Small trailer boats
- Aluminium hardtops
- Centre consoles
- Coastal fishing vessels
- Smaller launches and cruisers
Popular pairings include:
- Garmin GPSMAP chartplotters
- Garmin heading sensors
- Garmin autopilot systems
- Garmin Marine Network accessories
Professional Installation Available
East Coast Marine Electronics provides professional Garmin radar installation throughout the Bay of Plenty, Coromandel Peninsula and Rotorua regions. We can assist with radar mounting, marine network integration, heading sensor setup and complete Garmin electronics packages tailored to your vessel.
Our installation experience includes trailer boats, aluminium fishing boats, fibreglass hardtops and offshore fishing vessels.
Compatibility
The Garmin Fantom 18x is compatible with supported Garmin GPSMAP chartplotters and Garmin Marine Network systems.
For radar overlay and MARPA functionality, pairing with a compatible heading sensor is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size boats is the Fantom 18x suited for?
The Fantom 18x is commonly installed on smaller trailer boats and vessels from approximately 4.5m to 8m depending on layout and application.
What is MotionScope?
MotionScope uses Doppler technology to detect moving targets and highlight vessels approaching or moving away from your boat.
Can the Fantom 18x locate birds offshore?
Yes. Bird Mode helps identify bird activity and bait schools offshore, assisting anglers in locating fish activity.
Does the Fantom 18x work in fog and darkness?
Yes. Marine radar is highly effective for navigation and situational awareness in fog, rain, darkness and reduced visibility conditions.
Do I need a heading sensor?
A heading sensor is strongly recommended for radar overlay and MARPA target tracking functionality.
Contact East Coast Marine Electronics for pricing, availability and professional installation options.
