COURSE OVERVIEW:

Basic Navigation is a fundamental program designed to introduce maritime personnel to the essential art and science of directing a vessel safely from one point to another. This course provides a comprehensive foundation in three distinct yet integrated methods of navigation: traditional coastal piloting, modern satellite-based systems, and the historical principles of celestial observation. Participants will examine how these methods complement each other to ensure redundant and reliable position-fixing in various maritime environments.

The scope of this training involves the practical use of nautical charts, compasses, and plotting tools. Attendees will learn to interpret coastal features, buoys, and landmarks to determine their position relative to the shore. The course details the operational mechanics of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), focusing on how to utilize electronic data while remaining aware of its limitations and potential for signal interference or technical failure.

Coverage also includes an introduction to the celestial sphere, where participants explore the basics of using a sextant and nautical almanacs to find a position based on the sun, moon, and stars. By bridging the gap between ancient maritime traditions and 21st-century technology, this course equips aspiring navigators with the situational awareness and technical skills required to maintain a safe course and avoid navigational hazards during coastal and offshore passages.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

1. Identify and interpret symbols and abbreviations on paper and electronic nautical charts.
2. Utilize a magnetic compass and apply corrections for variation and deviation.
3. Plot a Dead Reckoning (DR) position based on course, speed, and time.
4. Execute position fixing using visual bearings and lighthouses.
5. Explain the working principles and accuracy levels of Satellite/GPS systems.
6. Configure and manage waypoints and routes on a GPS chart plotter.
7. Identify the basic components and proper handling of a marine sextant.
8. Explain the concept of the celestial sphere and the nautical triangle.
9. Determine latitude at noon using the altitude of the sun.
10. Apply the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs).
11. Calculate the impact of tides and currents on the vessel’s track.
12. Maintain an accurate and professional bridge logbook.
13. Execute emergency navigation procedures in the event of electronics failure.

TARGET AUDIENCE:  

Junior Deck Officers, Yacht Crew, Recreational Boaters, and Port Authority Personnel interested in maritime navigation.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.