Piloting is the first course in the sequence of USPS courses on navigation, covering the basics of coastal and inland navigation. This course focuses on navigation as it is done on recreational boats today and embraces GPS as a primary navigation tool while covering enough of traditional techniques so the student can find his/her way even if their GPS fails. The course includes many in-class exercises, developing the student’s skills through hands-on practice and learning. Ten classes of two hours each are typically scheduled for the presentation of this course. In addition, the students have seven days to complete the open-book exam. Topics covered include:
Members Registration Fee: $120.00-Includes Student Kit and Textbook
Non-Member Registration Fee: $185.00 -Includes Student Kit and Textbook
Course Outline
Session 1 Chapter 1 Introduction to Navigation – with class exercises
Session 2 Chapter 2 Tools of Piloting – with class exercises
Session 3 Chapter 3 Plotting & Planning Techniques – through Bearings with class exercises
Session 4 Chapter 3 Plotting & Planning Techniques – Relative Bearings, Pre-planning Safe Paths to end with class exercises
Session 5 Chapter 4 On The Water – with class exercises
Session 6 Chapter 5 Beginning GPS Navigation –using GPS as a navigation tool
Session 7 Chapter 5 Beginning GPS Navigation -with class exercises, start a cruise
Session 8 Chapter 6 Monitoring Progress – with class exercises, continue the cruise
Session 9 Chapter 7 Manual Piloting – with class exercises, continue cruise
Session 10 Chapter 8 Review and hand out open book exam