Boating — like the automobile industry — has gone high-tech.

From digitally designed composite hulls that cut the weight of the vessel and improve fuel economy, to special wave-making devices that kick up bigger wakes for skiers to jump, today’s watercraft are loaded with enough electronic gear to make a sailor sound like a geek in a computer store.

“There’s no doubt that technology has sure changed boating,” said Van Snider, president of the Michigan Boating Industries Assn. “It’s become a huge part of the business.”

The most popular add-ons for boats in the past few years have been GPS receivers. The Global Positioning System devices use satellites to pinpoint exact locations and navigate a straight and exact course.

Prices have dropped a lot in the past year as selection has increased. It used to be that only larger boats had the systems. Now they’re as popular with fishermen as with yachters.

Handheld GPS devices start at less than $100, while deluxe systems cost more than $1,000. Multifunction color LCD screens can display GPS locating, chart plotting and navigation functions, fish-finding underwater views and even DVD or TV video functions, all with the push of a button.

Two-way marine radios are more powerful and functional this year. Several models can be patched into a GPS system so a distress signal can give the Coast Guard precise rescue coordinates.

Handheld models shown this year offer boosted audio output capabilities so they can be better heard over engine noise. Waterproof models now are available, too, something appreciated by anyone who has ever had to replace a $400 handheld after accidentally dropping it into the drink.

“Marine electronics just get smaller and more affordable every year,” Snider said. “It’s a lot like computers. The same technology improvements apply.”

Snider said several companies offer satellite monitoring of boats docked in marinas.

Much like residential security services, which constantly monitor burglar alarms and what goes on in homes, these new services tap into the GPS system and let you know if someone tries to break into your boat or if a bilge pump stops working or a mooring line has come loose.

And the floating equivalent of a home theater system is now available.

“We’re seeing a lot more luxury entertainment electronics coming aboard this year,” Snider said. “What people have at home, they now want in the boat.”