Competent navigation separates confident boaters from those constantly worried about getting lost or running aground. Modern technology makes navigation easier than ever, but smart mariners blend electronic aids with traditional skills for complete self-sufficiency.
Understanding Marine Charts
Charts display water depth, navigation markers, hazards, and coastal features. Learn to read depth contours showing underwater topography. Blue shading indicates shallow water requiring caution. Green areas mark restricted zones. Magenta circles around lights show their visible range at night.
GPS Chartplotters
Modern chartplotters combine GPS positioning with electronic charts. Plot waypoints marking favorite fishing spots, marinas, or anchorages. Create routes connecting multiple waypoints. Use the track feature to record your path—invaluable for retracing routes in fog or finding productive areas again.
Understanding Aids to Navigation
Red channel markers mark the right side returning from sea (Red Right Returning). Green markers indicate the left side. Buoys with red and green horizontal bands mark junctions or obstructions. White regulatory buoys indicate speed zones, swimming areas, or no-wake zones.
Compass Navigation Basics
Always carry a magnetic compass as GPS backup. Understand magnetic variation—the difference between true north and magnetic north that varies by location. Learn to take bearings on landmarks to verify position. Practice dead reckoning—estimating position based on speed, time, and direction.
Weather and Navigation
Monitor weather continuously. Download NOAA weather apps showing current conditions and forecasts. Watch for rapid barometric pressure drops indicating approaching storms. Learn to recognize dangerous cloud formations. In fog, reduce speed dramatically and use radar if available.
Planning Your Route
- Study charts before departure, noting hazards and depths
- Check tide tables—some passages require specific tide stages
- Note the location of nearby marinas for emergencies
- Share your float plan with someone ashore
- Bring paper charts as electronic backup
- Download offline charts to your phone or tablet
Navigation skills build confidence for exploring new waters. Start with familiar areas while learning, gradually expanding your range as skills improve. Take a navigation course from the Coast Guard Auxiliary or Power Squadrons for comprehensive training. Safe navigation ensures you can explore freely while always finding your way home.