As you begin to sail, you will start with navigation by trying to look where you would like to go and go there. Most people begin their sailing journey in this manner. However, it is important to learn the basics of navigation as it helps you in reading a chart, steering with accuracy through a compass, and plotting a course. People feel it is a tough task to accomplish, but it is not as tough as it seems if you get the basics right. When you take up a sailing course, it includes details on easy navigation to make your sailing experience a fun-filled one.

When you start to sail independently, you must learn to assemble the kit using the basic navigation tools. This is crucial when you are planning to rent sailboats. Some rentals have things in the way of navigation tools apart from a compass, while others may not even have that option. Therefore, it is best to carry your own. To ensure you don’t get lost while sailing, you must consider having a kit of your own and the same can be bought from any marine shop.

Carry a Chart of the Location Where You Would Be Sailing

A chart always comes in handy when you are sailing, whether it’s a yacht charter in Turkey, Greece, or even the Caribbean. However, ensure that it’s a waterproof large-scale chart as it covers even the smallest of details of the geographical area. 

1.Two Rulers

Before you start sailing, make use of the parallel rules especially when the distance between the two rulers is altered. The parallel rules help in determining the longitude and altitude of the main locations.

2.A Compass

Carry a compass that must be attached to a sight. Place it near the landmark or lighthouse and go through the direction of the compass carefully. Consider bearing multiple objects and plotting them on the chart and your location would be where the lines cross. If you are carrying a GPS, you need not carry a compass. But, if there is no compass in your sailboat, you can choose the hand-bearing one for steering.

3.A Handheld GPS

GPS comes in best use especially if it’s a small boat as it may not have an adequate place for laying out the chart. The wind may be constantly blowing which makes it hard to refer to the chart. Therefore, GPS is the ideal solution as it tells you where exactly you are and the course of sailing too. Even if it’s foggy or a dark night, GPS will show the right direction. However, don’t forget to carry a waterproof case for the GPS and keep some spare batteries too.

4.A Handheld VHF Radios

When you are in trouble, the best way to seek help is through VHF. The harbormaster, marine patrol, the coast guard, and many other related authorities are constantly monitoring VHF. You can get the weather forecasts and other critical reports related to weather through VHF.

These items will easily fit in a bag and it’s not too heavy as well. When you carry these useful items, it makes your sailing trip secure and you will never get lost.