This class is offered at our Boathouse location & N. Portland store location.

This is a multi-class sequence involving three hours of classroom-based instruction, typically held in one evening session, followed by a half-day on the water session.

The classroom sessions introduce basic nautical terms and navigation rules, and cover the fundamentals of charts and methods of navigation. We cover concepts such as geographic positioning based on latitude and longitude, true and magnetic bearings, the use of basic navigation tools such as charts, compass and watch. We describe how to read a nautical chart and learn to identify some of the common chart symbols that occur in our area. The fundamentals of navigation based on piloting, the use of ranges and lines of position, and ways of estimating speed are introduced.

The half-day practical session puts into practice the skills learned in the classroom sessions. We will learn how to recognize navigation aids and correlate what we see with what is on the chart. We will practice piloting, using ranges, navigation aids, chart and compass, and experience the important differences between classroom-based navigation and navigating from the cockpit of a kayak. The class will take place in generally calm conditions.

Intro. to Navigation & Seamanship is scheduled periodically throughout the year. Call to reserve your spot in the next class.

888.571.4545

Outline: Intro to Navigation & Seamanship

• Introduce basic nautical terms and navigation rules.
• Introduce the fundamentals of charts and methods of navigation
•  Introduce the use of basic navigation tools such as charts, compass and methods of navigation.
• Introduce the concepts such as geographic positioning based on latitude and longitude, true and magnetic bearings.
• Discover how to read a nautical chart and learn to identify some of the common chart symbols that occur in our area.
• On the water practice piloting, using ranges, navigation aids, chart and compass, and experience the important differences between classroom-based navigation and navigating from the cockpit of a kayak.

On The Water, You Will Need:

- Tennis shoes or river sandals with wool socks or wetsuit booties
- Sunglasses with retention device (i.e. Croakies, Chums, etc)
- Sunscreen (SPF 30), lip balm (SPF 15)
- Sun hat, rain hat, and/or fleece hat
- Synthetic top and bottom (thermal underwear, heavier wt. for cooler weather)
- Rain coat and rain pants
- Nylon shorts and/or swimsuit
- Water bottle (1 quart)
- Towel and change of clothes for ride home
- Lunch and snacks.

Optional Gear:
- Camera with film, batteries and dry storage

Meeting Place/Directions:

The Intro to Navigation and Seamanship class meets at the Portland  Boathouse and our N. Portland store at Jantzen Beach. You will receive detailed instructions and a map with your confirmation packet.

 If you have any questions about what to bring please contact us. Alder Creek has a full line of paddling equipment and accessories. We would be happy to assist you in getting outfitted for your trip. Please remember to keep your personal gear to a minimum, but keep your comfort in mind. Remember the goal is to travel light and efficiently.

Call for more information.

888.571.4545