Sailing Navigation - Navigational Tools

• Compass
  This is a very important Navigation Tool. Its function is to determine the direction of the course. There are many types of Compasses. Some of these include handheld Compass, marine Compass, Magnetic Compass, and steering Compass.



• Charts
  A Chart holds a set of information which is valuable and useful in Navigation. Some terms that you may encounter when using Charts are:



• Projection
  The way a curved surface is represented on paper is called Projection. One example is a Mercator Projection. This is a cylindrical map projection where the meridians are equidistant, parallel, and vertical lines, while the parallels of latitude are horizontal, straight line the spaces of which increase from the Equator.



• Sounding
  This is a measured depth of the water.



• Scale
  The Chart can either be small-scale or large-scale. A small-scale Chart covers a large area in less detail and is used in planning, plotting positions, and navigating off shore. On the other hand, a large-scale Chart covers a more detailed projection of small area and is used in coastal Navigation.



Modern technology makes electronic Charts possible. Navigation can be done in a computer. Electronic Charts can be more convenient and easier to do than paper Charts, but they are dependent on power supply. Moreover, using a modern way does not necessarily mean that it is always accurate. It would be better if you first learn using paper Charts. You can try using the electronic Charts once you have learned the different aspects of paper-based Chart work.



• GPS Devices
  Global Positioning System or GPS is a system of satellites which calculates one's position on the earth in an accurate manner through the use of a GPS receiver. A GPS device is an important Navigation Tool that provides accurate and updated information about the position of the Sailboat or object.
  
  Necessity and the advancement of technology paved the way for the introduction of different types of GPS Devices. Nowadays, there are GPS Devices which come with electronic Charts. An electronic Chart enables you to easily see where you have been, where you are, and where you are headed.



• Plotting Equipment
  Navigation also requires a set of equipment for any plotting work on paper Charts. Aside from a Chart table in which you will do your Chart Work, you need Dividers to measure distances on the Charts, Plotter or parallel rulers, and pencils for making marks.



• Logs
  A Log is a good tool which displays important data such as the distance sailed and speed. Other types of Logs show other information including average and maximum speed reached.