Navigation skills for sea kayakers should extend beyond merely the use of gps devices and even the trusty map and compass. When the worst happens, Alex Matthews shares his tips for staying the course despite the wind, currents and sudden shifts in the weather.
- Point your boat in the direction that you want to go
- Pick two distant objects that are roughly in line with each other
- Make sure the objects are some distance apart (one nearer, and one farther)
- Paddle in a direction that keeps the two objects in line
This technique is calld “Ranging” and is explained in more detail below.
This technique article originally appeared in Adventure Kayak, Summer 2007. Download our free iPad/iPhone/iPod Touch App or Android App or continue reading here for free.
