Navigator Courses (Online)

Overview

2026 is the year most widely touted as the end of the traditional paper charts worldwide, which will also include raster charts – essentially a digital photocopy of the paper chart which leaves us with ENC’s & NC’s. So, what are these and which one are you using?

The role of the navigator today is vastly different to years past and this is mainly because of the availability of modern technologies such as weather information, better instruments, and electronic charting, etc. The practical navigator course explores these technologies in relation to both time proven navigational practices and the demands of the modern skipper for more detailed information.

Your experienced ORCV Skippers and Navigators will lead you through the background and theory using interactive and practical examples with the following courses.

There is a myriad of navigational apps today, whether they be on your phone, computer or chart plotter but whichever one you’re using, they’re still doing the same thing, getting you from A to B in navigable water. This course focuses on the use of charts no matter what app they sit on.

All courses run online and are suited to Ocean Racers, Cruisers, Motor Boats, Skippers and Crew.

Fundamental Navigation Course Includes

Fundamental Navigation Course Includes:

• Provides an introduction to the basic navigation skills required for safe yachting in coastal waters including:-
• Explanation of underlying concepts which underpin navigation theory
• Concepts of time, and distance
• Use of latitude and longitude to define position
• Basic training in the use of electronic charts and the information they contain
• Understanding bearings, magnetic variation and chart datum
• Plotting and planning
• Tides and their influence
• Route Planning Fundamentals
• Navigation technology – Chart plotters, GPS, AIS and related satellite services.

Upon completion of this course, participants will have the basic knowledge required to:-

• Interpret charts, identifying, lights, leads markers and common hazards
• Calculate bearings and plot positions
• Understand the key components required for successful route plans for short coastal trips.

The course includes two teaching sessions, a follow up Q&A (Optional) and home assignments.

Pre-requisites:

• It is important to note that this course is not an instruction on the use of your app, be it a chart plotter or an app on your phone or computer.
• Basic familiarity with the use of your navigational app
• Access to an electronic chart on Tablet, Ipad or PC for use during the
• Some familiarity with the use of chart plotters would be helpful.

Fundamental Course Dates:  Course Content (16 & 18 July) and Q&A on 22 July 2024

Cost:  Non Members $220 per person, ORCV Members $187 (plus 50c booking fee)