Sailing Navigational Tools
The first thing you need is a compass and no how to read one. This is probably the most important navigational tool you can carry with you and you should carry with one you at all times while sailing. It will help you direct your course. I also highly recommend investing in a computerized charting system.
Technology has made it super simple to use charts this way. You can still use old fashioned charts and you should use them as backup in case you lose power, but this is a tool you must have. You should be however able to use both electronic and old fashioned paper charts as well.
A GPS device is also something else you should have. A GPS or Global Positioning System is a collection of satellites that calculate your exact position on earth. It's highly accurate. There are many different types of marine GPS systems you can buy and they won't break the bank either.
The next thing you need is plotting equipment so you can plot your progress on your paper charts. You will need a chart table, dividers to measure the distances on your paper charts, a parallel ruler or two and of course pencils for marking your plots. You should also keep a sailors log.
These are probably all the basic sailing tools your need for navigation. There are other devices out there that will make navigating a breeze so I highly suggest you go down to your local marine store and ask for some advice.
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