I would point out that charts have dashed navigation paths for most areas that show what side of the buoys you should be on. For example when entering Center Harbor there is a dashed line showing that the black spars are on the left and red on the right. I find this a simple and highly effective way to navigate as long as I know the general direction I am heading in. If not, the compass will orient you.
Another suggestion I would make is to SLOW DOWN. I think the biggest mistake many people make is not simply taking the needed amount of time to properly orient themselves before moving ahead. If uncertain, STOP, and think it through.
Avoid the trickier spots until you are sure how to proceed or scout them out on the jet ski which has no prop to damage. It is really not that hard and there are only a handful of really hard to navigate spots.
Also, to keep from getting completely disoriented, which happens to the best of us, get in the habit of verifying the numbered buoys as you go past. Then you confirm that you are really where you thought you were.
|