Knowing where you are!

A vital role of a navigator is knowing where we are. There are many tools and techniques to help perform this duty with varying levels of accuracy and efficiency. This module introduces the different tools available, including both analogue and digital.

One of the primary tools is the compass, and you’ll learn about variation, the difference between magnetic and true north. Additionally, we look at electronic tools such as GNSS (GPS – Global Positioning System) and the chart plotter.

This module is part of the Day Skipper theory course.

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Module Prerequisites

Before you begin position-fixing, you need to understand charts. Knowing your position is only helpful if you can relate it to your surroundings!

Chart Familiarisation

Learn to read, interpret & use paper and electronic charts for navigation.

Skills Covered

This module discusses positioning techniques to help you understand where you are. Once completed, you’ll have several paper & electronic tools in your toolkit & you’ll have the Position Fixing insignia to prove it!

Position Fixing

Learn tools and techniques to position yourself on a chart visually & electronically.

For this module, you will need the following:
RYA Training Charts 3 & 4 RYA Training Almanac Portland Course Plotter Dividers Pencil Notepad
The Day Skipper course pack includes the RYA Almanac and charts required to complete this module. Enrol for access and your course pack will be dispatched within 24 hours.

Everything needed to complete this module is included in your course pack.

Downloadable resources:
Many of our downloads are available FREE! You don't have to be enrolled in one of our courses; you can study with any sailing school and still get access! Sign up for immediate access.

Downloadable resources are to support learning, not a pre-requisite for the sessions. You only need to download or print something if it helps your understanding of a topic.
Module downloads:
Adjustments for Deviation We can use the same mnemonic for Variation when adjusting bearings for deviation.... Join for FREE Calculating Variation How to calculate variation using the information found on a Compass Rose of... Join for FREE Positioning Web An example positioning web created for Beaufort Bay, a fictitious training... Join for FREE RYA Training Deviation Card The deviation card found on the back page of the RYA Training Almanac. It is... Join for FREE Dilution of Precision Scale Table of HDOP ranges and their associated meanings. When establishing the accuracy... Join for FREE Adjustments for Variation This handy mnemonic helps us remember which way to apply adjustments for bearings.... Join for FREE

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