Something for Everyone
These short seminars are targeted to specific topics and needs with a
two-hour format
Using VHF & VHF/DSC Marine Radio
VHF radio is the mainstay of
coastal communication and essential for emergency communications. Digital
Selective Calling (DSC) is rapidly becoming a reality as more Coast Guard
Rescue 21 System operation go live. Currently, the mid-Atlantic coast is
operational with DSC. The Gulf region will be operational early next year and
all Cutters will be DSC equipped by next year.
DSC vastly simplifies and
improves rescue and routine call signaling - making it easier to make a call
while the
system frees up Channel 16 for essential communications. However, you
need to know how to use it. This seminar answers those needs and explains basic
VHF operation. A CD is included with a DSC Simulator that allows you to practice
on your computer at home. A handy waterproof McGraw-Hill Captain's Quick
Guide Using VHF will be available with essential information that you
should have aboard, which will explain to anyone on your crew how to use the
radio.
Using GPS
GPS has become a common tool for navigation. However using GPS on the water is distinctly different from a moving map display in your car. This seminar explains the principles of waypoint navigation which you will use. It shows you how to relate the GPS to your charts which provide essential information about what is around you.
The seminar also shows you how to operate your GPS - what the buttons do, what the screens show, and how to access the functions you need. A handheld GPS is used as the demonstration model, but all GPS receivers function similarly, By the time you have completed the seminar, you will be able to store waypoints into your GPS, activate them for navigation, and use GPS to keep you on a safe, pre-qualified course of your choosing. A waterproof Mc-Graw-Hill Captain's Quick guide Using GPS to remind you of the steps will be made available.
How to use a Chart
Charts provide information
essential to you safety afloat. Even with GPS and electronic navigation, the
chart is needed to tell you what is around you and between you and your intended
destination. A system of symbols is
used by cartographers to tell you what lies
below the surface of the water and the depths of water. There is key information
about visible landmarks and navigation aids to help you navigate your course.
The chart also is your link with GPS via its grid scale, compass rose, and
distance scales. A brief introduction to latitude and longitude provides insight
to operation of GPS receivers.
The NOAA Chart No 1 is the quintessential reference to chart details, but is very difficult to understand. This seminal walks you through what you really need to know in an entertaining and interesting fashion, and will make available a Maptech flip-fold waterproof Chart and Symbols On-the-Water Guide to take along on the boat with you. In addition to showing you all about your chart, this seminar walks you through the essentials of laying out a safe course, steps to measure a course with the USPS plotter, and even a quick guide to the rules of the road.
On Board Weather Forecasting
Changing weather conditions
can convert what was a delightful day on the water into a real challenge.
Forecasting what weather you will encounter is one of the top priorities for
safe boating. Should you go out? When should you come in? These are important
questions, but some fundamental understanding of the weather can help you make
these decisions. That's what this seminar is all about.
While not a course in weather, this seminar explains how just using your own senses can help you determine what conditions you will encounter where your are. By all means, forecast is important. It will tell you what weather systems are headed your way, but they are challenged to tell exactly where and when conditions will change. Add your own observations and you have an extra edge. Add a couple of instruments and you can verify your observations. The seminar explains weather systems, how to understand clouds and their changes, using changing wind direction, temperature, and pressure to home in on emerging weather fronts. Made available will be a book Fundamentals of Weather written by the Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons, and the McGraw-Hill On Board Weather Forecasting.
Seminars in the near future:
Knots for Mariners
Boat Handling under Power
Sail Trim
On Board Emergencies
Using Digital Charts
Heavy Weather Sailing
1-513-554-BOAT or csps@insightbb.com
FOR SCHEDULE and FURTHER INFORMATION