Select Page

Any sea voyage needs a certain amount of planning before it is undertaken. It makes sense to think about where you are going, how you will get there and what factors might influence your plan. Planning the route itself is also critical. One of the essential parts of modern navigation is the use of waypoints.

The use of waypoints

A waypoint is a geographical position defined by its precise latitude and longitude, usually associated with electronic navigation.  Waypoints are used to define the points along a route where there are alterations of course, so in other words they are turning marks.  A navigator can plot a course using a series of waypoints which are entered into a chart plotter.

Waypoints are likely to be in two main locations: off headlands that are turning points along the route, or at buoys that may mark dangers or form part of a buoyed channel.

The exact steps for loading waypoints into a GPS or chart plotter may vary depending on the specific device and software being used. In some instances you have to enter the waypoint positions manually, while in others you just pinpoint the chosen spot with a cursor and the electronics do the rest.

It is important that the navigator chooses waypoints with care and checks them after a route is plotted. It is very easy to make mistakes when loading waypoints into a plotter.

How to prevent errors when loading waypoints

Here are some ways to prevent errors when navigating with waypoints:
  • Check accuracy. Verify that the latitude and longitude coordinates for each waypoint are accurate.
  • Review route. Review the planned route to ensure that it makes sense and that the waypoints are in the correct order.
  • Cross-check charts. Cross-check the waypoints against a nautical chart to make sure that they match up.
  • Use updated charts. Use the most up-to-date charts available, as underwater hazards and other obstacles can change over time.
  • Test GPS. Test the GPS regularly to ensure that it is working properly and that waypoints are being displayed correctly.
  • Monitor progress. Regularly monitor the vessel’s progress and adjust the course as needed to stay on track.
  • Backup plan. Have a backup plan in case the GPS fails or the waypoints are incorrect. This could include having a paper chart and compass on board, as well as a basic understanding of navigation principles.

By following these steps, you can help reduce the risk of errors when working with waypoints and ensure a successful navigation experience.

The pros and cons of navigating by waypoints

Here are some advantages of navigating by waypoints compared to traditional navigation methods:
  • Ease of use. Waypoints are easy to set and follow, and they allow the vessel to navigate to a specific location with great accuracy.
  • Improved efficiency. Navigating by waypoints can be faster and more efficient than traditional navigation methods, as the vessel can follow a direct course to the destination.
  • Better situational awareness. By using waypoints, the skipper can track the vessel’s progress and adjust the course as necessary to stay on track, improving situational awareness.
  • Increased safety. Navigating by waypoints can reduce the risk of running aground or hitting hazards, as the skipper can see exactly where the vessel is in relation to the planned route.
  • Integration with other systems. Waypoints can be integrated with other navigation and vessel systems, such as AIS, radar, and autopilot, to provide a more complete and accurate picture of the vessel’s position and progress.
  • Reduced workload. By using waypoints, the skipper can reduce the workload associated with traditional navigation methods, freeing up time and energy for other tasks.
Here are some limitations of using waypoints for navigation:
  • Reliance on technology. Waypoints rely on GPS and other technology, which can be subject to errors or failures.
  • Limited ability to account for changes. While waypoints can help navigate to a specific location, they do not always account for changes in weather, tides, currents, and other conditions that can impact the vessel’s progress.
  • Over-reliance on technology. Relying too heavily on waypoints can lead to a lack of basic navigation skills, and in the event of technology failure, the crew may be unable to navigate effectively.
  • Difficulty in adjusting course. If the vessel strays from the planned route, it can be difficult to adjust the course and return to the original plan.
  • Lack of situational awareness. While waypoints provide information about the vessel’s position, they do not always give a complete picture of the surrounding environment, such as nearby hazards.
  • Need for up-to-date charts. To navigate effectively using waypoints, it is necessary to have up-to-date charts and accurate waypoint data.

Tip:

It is always a good idea to have a crew member double-check your work, especially when navigating. Having a second pair of eyes can help catch any mistakes and provide a second opinion on the planned route. This can improve safety and increase confidence in the navigation plan.

In summary, while waypoints offer many advantages for navigation, they are not without limitations, including the need for technology and up-to-date information, the potential for over reliance on technology, and a limited ability to account for changes in conditions.

How to trim a genoa sail

I recently had two new sails made by Sanders Sails, based in Lymington UK. The first to arrive was the new genoa and it took me a little while to get to know it and learn how to adjust it correctly. Here is an aide memoire for getting to know how to trim a genoa so that it will deliver the best performance.

Top Tips For Learning The ColRegs Boating Rules Of The Road

Colregs Boating Rules Of The Road
The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) are a set of rules designed to prevent collisions between vessels. They are essentially the “rules of the road” for boats. Some key concepts within the COLREGs include:

How to predict wind direction and strength by reading a weather chart

Weather charts, also known as surface pressure or synoptic charts, contain a lot of information that helps weather...

The dangers of running aground in a motor boat

The peril of grounding a motor boat is not only an inconvenience; it can lead to substantial risks for both the vessel and its passengers. . In this article, we’ll explore the potential dangers of running aground and highlight the importance of proper navigation and preparedness to avoid these hazards!

First Aid Afloat – jellyfish stings

  Wherever you are boating in the world I am sure you will be using a pilot guide to aid your navigation. Often in the...

Safety Briefings – leave nothing to chance

Before giving your crew a safety briefing, it is worth considering the specific circumstances of the planned trip, the...

Man Overboard Drill

How to respond to crew overboard under sail • Keep the MOB in sight • Tack into the heave-to position, do not adjust the...

Marine engine electrical system

The typical basic electrical system associated with a marine engine includes a dedicated engine starting battery, a starter motor, a charger in the form of an alternator, a solenoid and some engine sensors and instruments.

Anchoring – getting it right is not always straightforward

If you can set an anchor correctly with confidence and know your boat will be safe in a secure anchorage, then you can rest...

First Aid Afloat – fish spine injury

First Aid Afloat - Here is what to do if somebody stands on a fish spine: • Check for dangers. Is it safe for you to enter...

Antifouling for leisure boats – Part 2

To prepare for antifouling, as soon as your boat has been lifted out and pressure washed, you need to check all the surfaces of the hull below the waterline, remove any remaining barnacles and check for blisters.

Common marine electrical problems

Most problems with marine electrical systems arise from four possible sources, a lack of maintenance, a poor standard of initial installation, insufficient battery capacity, or ineffective charging systems.
Water ingress is a frequent issue – salt water can corrode contacts very quickly. If connections are not scrupulously clean – or are loose – resistance will be increased, resulting in progressively reduced power.

Jester Challenge 2022 – Sailing single handed from Plymouth UK to the Azores: Part 7 – Motivation

Jester Challenge – A modern experiment in old-fashioned self-reliance, self sufficiency, and personal responsibility. This is the seventh of a 10-part post where solo sailor, Bernie Branfield, shares his first-hand account of his single-handed, 2022 Jester Challenge, from Plymouth, UK to the Azores, in his 26′ Invicta Mk2, Louisa.

2023 Rolex Fastnet Race – Part 3

This is our third and final article about the 2023 Rolex Fastnet Race. It is a first hand account by Simon Jollands who was one of the crew of Lancelot II, a Beneteau First 40 skippered by John Gillard.

Weather forecasting resources and tips

All competent sailors need to have a good basic understanding of how to interpret a weather forecast. They also need to be able to interpret the actual conditions they are experiencing.

Rudders and steering systems – Part 3

In the third of our three blog articles on rudders and steering systems, we look at how to replace rudder bearings and repair a water-saturated core.

Cutless bearing replacement

Cutless bearings can last for many years but if the propeller shaft is out of alignment they will wear through more quickly. If you have noticed a clunking sound when motoring then it could be a worn cutless bearing that is causing the problem.

Saildrive maintenance

There are less maintenance tasks to carry out on a saildrive transmission than on a traditional inboard shaft drive system with its associated stern gear. However, there are a few critical things that require maintenance, as recommended in detail by the engine manufacturers, and should be adhered to.

2023 Rolex Fastnet Race

Safe Skipper’s Simon Jollands took part in the 2023 Rolex Fastnet Race – a classic offshore sailing event. This is the first of several articles on the race and focuses on the start.

Sail trimming for cruisers

Sail trimming tips for cruisers. Whether racing or cruising, a well tuned boat will sail faster and tend to heel less than a boat with badly adjusted sails.

Rudders and steering systems – Part 2

One thing all rudders have in common is that they have three main parts that need to be checked: the rudder, or a steerable drive leg in the case of many power boats; the system that joins the rudder to the steering; the steering control itself.

Seasickness – how can you prevent it?

Seasickness is a common problem at sea and affects both seasoned sailors and novices. What are the causes and symptoms of seasickness?...

Boating Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts on the Water

Boating etiquette is essential for ensuring the safety, enjoyment, and harmony of everyone on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or new to the boating community, it’s important to be aware of the do’s and don’ts of boating etiquette. Take a look at our guidelines:

Understanding boat engines

Irrespective of what kind of engine a boat is equipped with and who does the work, the regular care and maintenance of a marine engine is essential. The most common cause of marine engine failure is widely known to be lack of maintenance.

Keel maintenance and Repair – Part 2

If you have ever witnessed a boat colliding with a rock or other submerged obstacle you will know that there is an almighty thump and the whole boat shakes and judders. While such hard groundings seldom result in catastrophic keel failure, something has to give and even the sturdiest keels can easily be damaged by such an impact.