We analyzed 33 negative reviews from the top 5 Marine Biology Planner apps on the App Store. Here's what users hate most.
Ranked by frequency — how often each complaint appears in negative reviews.
27% of negative reviews mention this issue.
"the charts are garbage for what you pay compared to navionics. the depth soundings are garbage."
"Compared to the Navionics maps and app, it's simply not a viable option. Shallow Tampa Bay, Florida is my main sail area and this is routinely off by 5+ feet where it matters most."
18% of negative reviews mention this issue.
"This app has a major flaw; it does not enable any chart data that has useful satellite imagery."
"Don't understand how an app that cost this much doesn't have a better satellite image. So many free apps out there with better sat images"
15% of negative reviews mention this issue.
"Sick of buying multiple copies of the same chart. I have TZ on a laptop and of course I can't use those charts on iBoat. Charts, the gift that keeps giving."
"I don't like that you need to buy every year and if not it does not show what you payed for previously. If you have the PC version then you have to buy it as well. So that is twice or more every year."
12% of negative reviews mention this issue.
"I'm sure this is a wonderful app, but there's basically nothing available for US inland waterways that I can find. Our boat is on the Tennessee River right now."
"Love the app but sorry to say doesn't have Hawaii harbors! Still waiting for refund"
12% of negative reviews mention this issue.
"Not granular enough for ANYTHING!!! There's no good resolution on anything even the easy stuff."
"Charts do not zoom in well and are hard to download"
12% of negative reviews mention this issue.
"Nothing but "oops, something went wrong" error page."
"The 'pinch to zoom' feature is all messed up. Great features, terrible interface."
Design and usability issues driving negative reviews.
Users must commit to paid subscription without testing functionality first
"The app does not provide a trial period. How does one commit to a fee without knowing how the app works? I promptly deleted the app."
Inadequate learning resources make it difficult to discover and use features
"If there is an anchor watch alarm feature on the system, I cannot find it. The system tutorial is less than adequate. It should come with a written manual with detailed instructions and an index to find the features you are looking for."
Locked to heads-up display without north-up or course-up alternatives
"I tried using the app on my iPhone. There is no way to changing the heading. There is no north up or course up. It stays permanently in heads up display which is confusing to me."
Users report no responses to support requests and refund issues
"I sent several requests for info as to why this happening a NEVER GOT A RESPONSE. Cancelled subscription."
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