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Navigation Equipment

Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2010 10:01 pm
by rkhederian
I am thinking of investing in some navigation equipment. Do people recommend good old fashion "paper" nautical charts, or electronic GPS.

I am leaning towards a GPS but wanted to hear what recommendations people might have.

If GPS, what features, makes and models have worked for you?

Thanks,

Bob

Re: Navigation Equipment

Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2010 10:47 pm
by kayakerjnj
Charts first, a GPS second.

No batteries for charts and a compass. A good hand held GPS is a great accessory to have if your budget permits.

I'm a garmin fan myself :)

Re: Navigation Equipment

Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2010 5:57 am
by noseykate
Agree with Jordan - charts and compass first, then GPS as backup if you can afford it. I've had my GPS die on a multi-day trip. Just too dicey relying totally on electronics. I have a chart-holder that clips to my deck; Mark likes to laminate his. I have a deck-mounted compass on the boat and I carry one in my PFD pocket.

NK

Re: Navigation Equipment

Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2010 1:12 pm
by Birdseye
Can't go wrong with the Garmin MAP76 models. Color if you can afford it. I love mine. Make sure you get a model that uses USB for your computer.

Re: Navigation Equipment

Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2010 1:24 pm
by lora925
Oh and make sure you get a dry bag for it. Despite the waterproof advertising/salesmen belief/etc they still are not waterproof for the top of our decks ;)

Re: Navigation Equipment

Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2010 1:34 pm
by Chip
I use the GPSmap60csx from Garmin. Great GPS. They are discontinuing them so you may get a good price. Very popular with the forestry service and the military.