The GPS tells us where we are and how fast we are moving and in what direction, but it can never tell us the safest, most efficient route to our destination. That fundamental task requires the basic navigation skills taught in ASA 105, Coastal Navigation.

Learn to check the GPS underway, and be prepared to navigate without the GPS if needed. The hallmark of good seamanship is to look ahead and be prepared. This course covers not only the long tested traditional methods of navigation but also the efficient use of the latest technology in electronic navigation and charting, including chart reading, piloting, rules of the road, tides and currents, and more. A prerequisite for ASA 106, Advanced Coastal Cruising, this online course will cover the following topics:

» NAVIGATION, PILOTING AND CHARTS.
Use of U.S. Coast Guard navigation publications and resources required for prudent navigation in local areas. Decipher chart symbols and conventions on U.S. nautical charts in accordance with terminology using:

‣ Large scale charts of the area and Chart #1
‣ Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats
‣ USCG Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook
‣ State small vessel regulations
‣ Local rules and regulations, if applicable
‣ Local cruising guides
‣ Tide and current tables, (paper or electronic)
‣ List of lights, buoys, and fog signals

» DEAD RECKONING NAVIGATION, BEARINGS AND FIXES.
Measuring and plotting direction and distance, bearings and courses, and speed-time-distance calculations. Plot a chart position from terrestrial objects using:

‣ Two or more bearings on different objects taken at one time.
‣ Bearings at different times (i.e. a running fix).
‣ One bearing and transit range.
‣ One distance (i.e. a sounding or dipping a light) and one bearing.

» CORRECTING YOUR COURSE FOR CURRENT AND LEEWAY.
Converting courses and bearings between true, magnetic, and compass. Determine a course to steer which takes into account known current and leeway:

‣ Check compass deviation by a transit bearing or other means.
‣ Allow for the effect of current and leeway to plot the estimated position.

» TIDES AND TIDAL CURRENTS.
Causes of tides and currents and using tables to predict the height of tide as well as the set and drift of current. Use of tide charts and current tables to find:

‣ Times and heights of tides at reference and secondary ports.
‣ Direction and rate of current at referenced and secondary stations.

There are no prerequisites for this course. While there are no prerequisites for this course, as even the basics of how to use standard plotting tools (parallel rulers and dividers) are covered in detail, many students benefit from completing the ASA 101-104 Courses before taking this course.

You can reasonably expect to spend approximately 40 to 60 hours on this course, depending on how much optional material you choose to cover. You will have the option to control how much work you do during each session and work at your own pace.