Wiring 170 console...

[Jimex500]

Well it seems my push/pull switch for my nav lights has gone bad. I'm pretty fluent in automobile wiring so I thought about installing a switch panel for the nav lights, radio, fish finder and vhf radio. Everything will be on its own switch so it can be independently switched on and off.

Here is a panel I'm looking at because it also has a volt meter and power outlet.
Amarine-made 4 Gang LED Waterproof Marine Boat Toggle Switch Panel with 5 Breakers , Power Socket & Voltmeter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MWS108O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_.ED4wbCE6MKZR

My question is it normal to install a relay so that the panel gets power when the ignition is switched on or should I wire it directly to the battery with a main power on/off switch. Thanks

[Capt. Bob]

My question is it normal to install a relay so that the panel gets power when the ignition is switched on or should I wire it directly to the battery with a main power on/off switch. Thanks

The latter.
Proper wiring brings power to your gauges when the ignition is turned on. Things like pumps, lights, GPS, depth sounder, etc. can and often are, running when the motor is not so yes, wire the panel through the positive helm buss.

Good luck.

[Capt. Bob]

Light reading to give you some ideas.

http://classicaquasport.com/smf/index.php?topic=9053.msg79505#msg79505

[RickK]

That panel looks pretty nice. However you don't need to waste switches on things that have on/off switches - just make sure they are fused  from the + power terminal. Save the switches for things like Nav and anchor lights, horn, bilge pumps (should also be wired for auto directly to the battery), bait pumps, etc.  That's 4 of the switches right there.