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Lesson 10 - Passage Planning

Passage Planning Basics

  • The foundation of safe and efficient navigation

  • Combines preparation, strategy, and adaptability

  • Essential for minimizing risks and ensuring smooth voyages

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Start with Objectives

  • What’s the purpose of your journey?

  • Leisure, racing, or delivery?

  • Define your goals to shape your plan

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Consider Constraints

  • Crew endurance and vessel limitations

  • Tides, currents, and weather conditions

  • Daylight hours and fuel capacity​​

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​Identify Hazards

  • Rocks and shallow waters

  • Overfalls and high-traffic areas

  • Poor weather and restricted zones

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Use Navigation Aids

  • GPS and nautical charts

  • Tidal forecasts and landmarks

  • Reliable weather updates

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Plan Your Route

  • Balance efficiency with safety

  • Include bolt holes for emergencies

  • Avoid waypoints at hazards or crowded locations

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Legal Requirements

  • SOLAS requires voyage plans for vessels under 150 tons

  • Include safe routes, weather, hazards, and contingency measures

  • Written plans are highly recommended

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Weather and Tides

  • Stay updated with forecasts and Navtex alerts

  • Use favorable tidal streams for fuel and time efficiency

  • Avoid poor visibility and hazardous sea states

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Wind and Tidal Tactics

  • Adjust course based on predicted wind shifts

  • Use lee-bowing the tide for better efficiency

  • Plan with lay lines to minimize tacking

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​​Navigation Strategies

  • Cone and corridor tactics for flexibility

  • Avoid overfalls and high-risk areas

  • Be mindful of special operations zones

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Monitor Progress

  • Use GPS waypoint alarms carefully

  • Verify positions manually when needed

  • Adjust the plan based on conditions

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Keep Accurate Records

  • Use deck logs to track objectives and conditions

  • Flight plans and chart markings for quick reference

  • Logs help with navigation and post-journey analysis​​​

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​​Getting Lost

  • Use logs and charts to reconstruct your position

  • Avoid confirmation bias about your location

  • Aim for prominent features when nearing land

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Landfall Tips

  • Aim for visible landmarks like lighthouses

  • Use clearing lines and depth contours for accuracy

  • Transition from open water to coastal navigation confidently

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Summary

  • Define objectives, constraints, and hazards

  • Use navigation aids and flexible routes

  • Monitor progress and adapt as needed

  • Keep detailed records for reference

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