Navigation
Buoys, Beacons and Marks: A Navigation Guide
Understand the IALA buoyage system, lateral and cardinal marks, safe water and special marks, and how to read their shapes, colours and lights on the water.
Aug 9, 2026 · 5 min
Navigation
Charts, pilotage, position fixing
Navigation
Compass Bearings and Headings Made Simple
Learn the difference between a bearing and a heading, how to work with true, magnetic and compass north, and how to apply variation and deviation correctly.
Aug 9, 2026 · 4 min
Navigation
Dead Reckoning Explained for Boaters
Learn how dead reckoning estimates your position from course, speed and time, how to add tide and leeway for an estimated position, and why it still matters today.
Aug 9, 2026 · 5 min
Navigation
GPS and Chartplotter Basics for Boaters
Learn how GPS and chartplotters work, how to read your position, speed and course, set waypoints, and why you should never rely on electronics alone at sea.
Aug 9, 2026 · 5 min
Navigation
How to Plot a Course on a Nautical Chart
A step-by-step guide to plotting a course, drawing a track, measuring bearing and distance, and correcting for tide and leeway to reach your destination safely.
Aug 9, 2026 · 5 min
Navigation
Latitude and Longitude Explained for Boaters
Understand latitude and longitude, how to read coordinates on a chart, and why one minute of latitude equals a nautical mile. A clear guide for your boating exam.
Aug 9, 2026 · 4 min
Navigation
Position Fixing Methods Every Boater Should Know
Discover how to fix your position at sea using bearings, transits, ranges and GPS. Learn to cross position lines for a reliable fix and pass your boating exam.
Aug 9, 2026 · 5 min
Navigation
Reading a Nautical Chart: A Beginner's Guide
Learn to read a nautical chart step by step, from symbols and soundings to scale and the compass rose, so you can navigate safely and pass your boating exam.
Aug 9, 2026 · 5 min
Navigation
Tides Explained for Boaters
Understand what causes tides, how to read tidal heights and streams, and why springs and neaps matter. A clear guide to tides for your boating exam and safe passages.
Aug 9, 2026 · 5 min
Navigation
Understanding Depth Soundings on a Chart
Learn how to read depth soundings and contours, what chart datum means, how tide affects real depth, and how to use an echo sounder to stay off the bottom safely.
Aug 9, 2026 · 5 min