I am trying to understand the complexities of sound navigation skills with the variety of electronic "must haves."
From studying various blue water circumnavigators, I cannot see the significance of having such a reliance on radar as to preclude them from not venturing forth without it. Radar does have it share of glory in the battle with fear, but caveats abound.
I am trying to justify the voltage expense with a down to earth sailboat,which tries to stay away from a total reliance on electronic nav gear. After review, I would rather keep my head out of the boat than tied to a screen somewhere in the boat.
One example which I find encouraging is the Pardeys. Their experience is well documented and applauded and yet have a boat with almost no "demanding" electronic habits to help them. Can one safely, with a little experience and common sense, do away with our increasingly heavy reliance on radar?
Am I being prudent here or just stubborn. You decide.
From studying various blue water circumnavigators, I cannot see the significance of having such a reliance on radar as to preclude them from not venturing forth without it. Radar does have it share of glory in the battle with fear, but caveats abound.
I am trying to justify the voltage expense with a down to earth sailboat,which tries to stay away from a total reliance on electronic nav gear. After review, I would rather keep my head out of the boat than tied to a screen somewhere in the boat.
One example which I find encouraging is the Pardeys. Their experience is well documented and applauded and yet have a boat with almost no "demanding" electronic habits to help them. Can one safely, with a little experience and common sense, do away with our increasingly heavy reliance on radar?
Am I being prudent here or just stubborn. You decide.