Kayak Navigation Class - 2 DAYS April 10/11

[Miami101]

Hi folks I know this is kind of late, and hope it is O.k. to post this information here. I found this Class which is going on this week end, and thought you guys might want to join me. As you know I have not used a GPS, nor Compass on any trips into the back country, and kind of feel it time to be more responsible.

Date this week end:
Link:
http://kayaking.meetup.com/130/calendar/12752348/?a=cr1c_grp&rv...

Here is the information:
Want to go paddle the backcountry this winter? Want to do crossings that take you out of sight of land? Want to do this stuff safely?

Learn to navigate using simple tools, when and how to add your GPS to the mix, and practice what you've learned. Remember, "out of sight of land" in a kayak is any distance greater than a few miles from the nearest mature mangrove stand...

Day One
Classroom, theory and knowledge. Location TBA. Required materials include small spiral notebook (preferably waterproof) for taking notes, pencil, extra eraser, hiker's compass, and lunch.

Day Two
On-water practice, launching from grid coordinates to be text messaged or emailed at the end of day one. Required materials include kayak, deck-mounted compass, all normal daytime safety and comfort gear, grease pencil or china marker, and lunch. GPS if you've got one. Conditions may be up to SK3-4, but are likely calmer.

Gear Notes
Waterproof notebooks, china markers, and various other scribbly fun stuff can be had from Bluewater Books & Charts, 1811 Cordova Road, Ft Lauderdale, FL 33316 - visit http://www.bluewaterw... for hours and directions.

Hiker's and deck compasses are available - please email the organizer not later than 12/21 for pricing.

Cost
This class will cost $160, which includes two days of instruction, kayak course plotter, and appropriate Waterproof Chart.

REGISTRATION
I've made this a LOT simpler than it used to be. You pay to RSVP, and you're registered!

This course will teach you skills required for assessment for BCU 3-Star Sea and 4-Star Sea Leader awards.

[Miami101]

Folks sorry for posting the above so late, but the class so far was great. Information on Weather, Winds, Tides, and how to to get to locations using just your Compass. This class was great day 2 they sent me LAT/Long for meeting location. I will be tested on the water using my Compass. I'm going to take this class one more time anyone who is going back country into the Evergaldes should take this class let me know, and I will provide contact info.

[Miami101]

Floks I going to take this class again. Please contact me if you would like to join me.
I know it cost money, but the information is great for those of us who are hitting the 1000 islands. How I have made it so far with out this information I do not know. I only thank god for looking over me in his land....

[Juan Estevez]

You're doing the proper thing and I think the money is well spent, we all at least know how to basically navigate.

I started with this book:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0071467947/ref=oss_product

I must admit that I totally rely on my GPS and it is my primary navigation tool, I do carry both charts and a couple of compasses but I found that the charts have no enough of details for paddlers. I have found that the aerial views from Google Earth and the Terra server to have more details of creeks and trails.

Even though I relay on my GPS I keep the maps and my custom prints in front of me at all times and I always aware in which direction I'm going.

Juan

[Miami101]

I was using Google Earth, but would not a copy out with me. I used memory when I would go out.
In the class we went over the different types of maps, and how to read them. It was very detailed. I'm going to pay for the class again, and see if anyone would like to join me.

I done a few long trips into the Glades, and have been lucky so far, but it is time to take it to the next level.

[Miami101]

Folks this class is on again for May 23. Please contact [e-mail] for information on the class.