Radar Fixing and Parallel Indexing

Radar range is usually more accurate than radar bearing on a yacht set. A radar fix from two or more ranges to identifiable charted objects can be very reliable. Use variable range markers (VRM) and electronic bearing lines (EBL) to transfer radar information to the chart.

Parallel indexing is a powerful pilotage technique. A line is set on the radar parallel to the intended track and offset by a known safe distance from a coastline, pier, or danger. If the echo stays on the index line, the vessel is maintaining the planned track. If it moves off the line, the vessel is drifting or steering off track.