Standing a Navigation Watch: Mastering Coastal Navigation by Day and Night

When undertaking a sailing passage of at least 20 nautical miles, whether by day or night, standing a navigation watch requires focus, preparation, and a thorough understanding of coastal navigation techniques. Here's a guide with considerations for a safe and efficient watch, demonstrating the critical elements of navigation skills.

Preparation Before the Watch

1. Chart Briefing: Study the route on a nautical chart. Identify key waypoints, hazards, aids to navigation, and the expected course. Use tools like dividers, parallel rulers, and a pencil to mark the route clearly.

2. Weather and Tide Information: Review forecasts and tidal patterns. Knowing the wind direction, current strength, and tidal changes will influence your navigation strategy.

3. Equipment Check: Verify that essential navigation tools are functioning—including the GPS, compass, depth sounder, and radar. Ensure you have backup options, such as paper charts and a handbearing compass, in case of electronic failure.

4. Safety Gear: Equip yourself with a personal flotation device (PFD), a headlamp for night watches, and any additional safety equipment specific to your vessel (such as jacklines and tethers).
   
   

Skills for Coastal Navigation

1. Plotting a Position: Regularly determine your position using multiple methods:

   • Visual Bearings: Use prominent landmarks or aids to navigation, such as lighthouses or buoys, and take bearings with a handbearing compass.
   • Electronic Navigation: Cross-check your GPS position with chart data to ensure accuracy.
   • Dead Reckoning: Calculate your position by measuring your course steered and speed over time.

2. Maintaining Situational Awareness: Constantly monitor your surroundings, keeping an eye on other vessels, changes in weather, and potential hazards. At night, your radar and AIS are invaluable for identifying nearby traffic.

3. Using Aids to Navigation: Identify and use buoys, beacons, and lights. Understand their characteristics and match them to the chart to confirm your position.

4. Course Corrections: Adjust your heading as necessary to compensate for current, wind, and tidal influences. Make frequent checks to ensure you stay on course.
   
   

Standing Watch at Night

Night navigation adds complexity but can be managed effectively:

• Dim Lights: Use red light for charts and instruments to preserve your night vision.
• Focus on Visual Cues: Look for the rhythmic patterns of navigation lights and match them to your chart.
• Monitor Speed: Reduce speed in areas of limited visibility to allow more time to react.
• Team Communication: Regularly communicate with other crew members to share observations and maintain safety.
  
• Shift Scheduling: Consider having at least two (2) crew members always on watch. One at the helm and one as a lookout.
  

Standing Watch During the Day

While daytime navigation may seem simpler, vigilance remains key:

• Use Landmarks: Identify prominent coastal features and cross-check them against your chart.
• Keep a Log: Record hourly positions, course changes, and environmental observations in the ship’s log.
• Monitor Depth: Regularly check the depth sounder to avoid shoals or underwater hazards.
  
  

Standing a navigation watch, whether during the day or night, requires skill, discipline, and an ability to adapt to changing conditions. By demonstrating mastery of coastal navigation techniques—from plotting positions to maintaining situational awareness—you ensure a safe and enjoyable passage. The key is preparation, vigilance, and using all available resources to keep your vessel on course. Smooth sailing awaits!