Navigational Records
Keeping a proper navigational record (log) is critical. It creates an audit trail of your decisions, helps you fix your position if electronics fail, and provides evidence if there is an incident.
A basic log entry includes: time, course steered, log reading (distance), wind direction and strength, barometric pressure, and position (fix, DR, or EP). Note any significant events — sail changes, crew changes, sightings, weather changes.
Key Points
- Log: time, course, log reading, wind, pressure, position
- Record at least hourly and at every course change
- Note significant events (weather changes, sail changes, sightings)
- A log provides evidence and backup if electronics fail