best-binoculars

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The best binoculars to keep on board

29 August 2018 • Written by Sam Fortescue, • Written by Zoe Dickens

The recent boom in explorer yacht popularity means there is a whole host of toys and accessories stepping up the luxury yachting plate that many owners may never have considered before. And, while it goes without saying that a superyacht submarine or an electric bike are essentials for exploration, a great pair of binoculars is an absolute must if you're to make the most out of your trip. See our edit of the best pairs combining great style with cutting-edge design and technology below...

Canon 14x32 IS

A long way from the sailor’s traditional spyglass, Canon has launched three new binoculars with ground-breaking image stabilisers, perfect for a steady view on the rolling sea. The IS binoculars – with 10x, 12x and 14x magnification levels – feature two modes of stabilisation: standard to reduce handshake and a more powerful one to correct larger movements and give a rock steady view. A minimum focus of two metres also allows users to maintain clear vision if the subject suddenly moves closer.

From £1,399, global.canon

Leica Ultravid HD-Plus Edition Safari

German brand Leica unveiled a limited edition version of its top-of-the-range Ultravid binoculars in early 2017, creating a safari-inspired design with French artist Aneas. Available in four sizes, each produced as a limited version of 100, the binoculars are finished with a dark green trim and come presented with a handcrafted canvas case and leather strap. Each pair of binoculars also features '2017' engraved on the body ring and, of course, sharp focus and magnification the Ultravid range is known for.

From $2,199, Leica

Swarovski EL 42

Crystal clear optics and high build quality make these among the best that money can buy. Choose 8.5x or 10x magnification.

From £2,070, swarovskioptik.com

Steiner Commander Global 7x50

The pair for wannabe admirals. A digital worldwide compass is superimposed on the edge of the viewing image, and a floating neck strap will keep them on the surface.

$3,104.99, steiner-optics.com

Zeiss 20x60 T* S

At 20x magnification, the Zeiss’s mechanical image stabilisation makes it highly accurate, even without a tripod. Great for wildlife spotting.

£5,530, zeiss.co.uk

Nikon WX 10x50 IF

Nikon’s ultimate instrument is waterproof, fog-proof and painstakingly engineered for an ultra-wide, super-flat and bright field of view.

$6,399, nikonsportoptics.com