This course includes sections covering basic navigation skills (using a compass, reading and interpreting nautical charts, using chartplotter, smartphone or tablet and manual navigation skills needed to navigate safely including locate a position (i.e., identify latitude and longitude coordinates), set direction and measure distance. This course includes practice cruises using your navigation device and manual navigation skills. Safety topics include understanding how to use navigation aids – buoy system, legal responsibilities, selecting and using lines and knots, anchoring, docking, the impact of weather on boater safety, electrical hazards, collision avoidance rules, using tide and current tables, and other related topics. Each section includes course notes, instructional video, knowledge checks – skill testing quizzes and exercises, and links to supplementary resources. An optional final “multiple choice” exam is also available.
