Plotting Positions

This module explores the effect of environmental influences to understand their impact on our vessel’s progress over a chart. It builds on skills learned in previous modules and teaches how to find and incorporate water movement (tidal drift) and wind (leeway) to our likely position.

It covers Dead Reckoning (DR) & Estimated Positioning (EP), two plotting techniques used to understand where we are and where we are heading. It also explores the effect of leeway (wind) on our vessel.

This module is part of the Day Skipper theory course.

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More Info

Module Prerequisites

Before learning how the environment will affect you, you need to understand charts and positioning and have some tidal knowledge. You can’t consider the effect of something when you don’t know where you are or what impact it might have!

Don’t worry; we’ll walk you through each step step-by-step, making sure you are confident in the subject.

Chart Familiarisation

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

Position Fixing

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

Tidal Heights

Learn to find water depth anywhere on a chart using the Almanac & electronic tools.

Skills Covered

This module discusses the impact wind and tide have on a vessel. It covers where to find information on tidal streams, including the Nautical Almanac, charts, and mobile apps. Once completed, you’ll be better prepared to evaluate the impact on a vessel. Moreover, you’ll have the Plotting Positions Insignia to brag about!

Learn how to plot positions on a chart using tide, boat speed and direction.

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 don't need to download or print anything unless it helps your understanding of a topic.
Module downloads:
Adjustments for Variation This handy mnemonic helps us remember which way to apply adjustments for bearings.... Join for FREE How to plot an Estimated Position A step-by-step guide showing how to plot an Estimated Position. This chart... Download How to plot Dead Reckoning A step-by-step guide showing how to plot Dead Reckoning. This chart plotting... Download Chart Annotations Standard annotations for use when navigating using charts or chart plotters.... Download Tidal Hour Calculation Sheet Worksheet for calculating the hour-of-tide when looking up tidal stream information... Join for FREE

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