Module 19 - Electronic Navigation
Failure Planning and Redundancy
A Yachtmaster passage plan should include what happens if the plotter, GNSS, radar, AIS, depth sounder, log, or charging system fails. The answer may be paper chartwork, backup handheld GPS, visual pilotage, heaving-to, anchoring, diverting, or waiting for daylight.
Power management matters. Many electronic failures are actually electrical failures: flat batteries, poor charging, corroded connections, blown fuses, or water ingress. Know where the breakers are, keep handheld backups charged, and make sure essential navigation can continue if the main plotter goes dark.
Key points
- Plan for electronic failure before departure
- Carry backup position and plotting methods
- Keep handheld devices charged and waterproofed
- Know electrical breakers and fuses
- If navigation confidence falls, create sea room or stop in safe water
Continue studying Electronic Navigation
This topic is part of Module 19. Open the full module for lessons, quizzes, flashcards, and revision tools.