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skprbob · 07-12-2007, 09:15 AM

I'd like to echo sa meredith's comment about the GPS. There really is no substitute for experience and a chart. Those are two things that will not fail if the batteries (or the operator's brain) go dead! A GPS is a wonderful tool, especially in rain, fog, or at night, but should not be a crutch. Use it along with your personal knowledge of the area, not instead. I recall a boater who ran up on an island. He was following his GPS on a clear night, with a full moon, and apparently not bothering to look out the windshield! He claimed afterward that the island was not on his GPS chart. He was right, because the GPS contained a state highway map rather than a lake chart. Don't follow in his wake.

Good luck in the boating course! Be safe and courteous.

07-12-2007, 09:15 AM	#16
skprbob Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: 19 Mile Bay Posts: 147 Thanks: 0 Thanked 90 Times in 29 Posts	Gps I'd like to echo sa meredith's comment about the GPS. There really is no substitute for experience and a chart. Those are two things that will not fail if the batteries (or the operator's brain) go dead! A GPS is a wonderful tool, especially in rain, fog, or at night, but should not be a crutch. Use it along with your personal knowledge of the area, not instead. I recall a boater who ran up on an island. He was following his GPS on a clear night, with a full moon, and apparently not bothering to look out the windshield! He claimed afterward that the island was not on his GPS chart. He was right, because the GPS contained a state highway map rather than a lake chart. Don't follow in his wake. Good luck in the boating course! Be safe and courteous.