Another "feature" of the waterproof case is that it adds flotation to your GPS unit if it should ever fall overboard while not attached to the lanyard.



As someone who has spent much time in the outdoors in all conditions (professionally as a member of a mountain rescue unit and a sea kayak instructor/guide, as well as multiple outdoor hobbies) I've come to believe in redundancy. Not only do I keep my VHF and GPS units in waterproof cases, but I don't rely on them soley. Whenever I'm on the water, I leave a "Float Plan" with a reliable person. I carry an emergency signal kit that includes flares, smoke, dye markers, and a signal mirror. When paddling or sailing in unfamiliar waters, I always have charts and a compass onboard, in addition to the GPS. (I consider the GPS a luxury item.)



The bottom line is that I don't trust any one item completely. Even a bombproof, waterproof electronic unit can run out of juice at the most inopportune moment.



Cheers,