GPS or digital compass?

camp guy · 03-22-2009, 07:51 PM

Welcome to the Lake ! I'm sure you will enjoy it.

My first comment is that during the Boating Safety Course (which you are required to take) there will be a discussion of navigation aids and how to understand them.

Secondly, before you invest in a GPS or a compass, you need a Lake chart, and, probably, also, some local instruction about the sub-surface geography in the area you plan to do most of your boating.

Both a GPS and a compass are very helpful, but they actually serve two different functions, neither mutually exclusive of the other. Given the chance, buy both, but, if only one or the other is a choice, try to see a GPS in action before you buy one.

My last comment is that local knowledge is always helpful. Too, at night, things look differently than during the day. If this is your first go at the Lake, go slow, stay vigilent, and don't be afraid to ask other boaters what works for them.

03-22-2009, 07:51 PM	#2
camp guy Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: formerly Winter Harbor, still Wolfeboro Posts: 1,183 Thanks: 300 Thanked 525 Times in 293 Posts	GPS or digital compass Welcome to the Lake ! I'm sure you will enjoy it. My first comment is that during the Boating Safety Course (which you are required to take) there will be a discussion of navigation aids and how to understand them. Secondly, before you invest in a GPS or a compass, you need a Lake chart, and, probably, also, some local instruction about the sub-surface geography in the area you plan to do most of your boating. Both a GPS and a compass are very helpful, but they actually serve two different functions, neither mutually exclusive of the other. Given the chance, buy both, but, if only one or the other is a choice, try to see a GPS in action before you buy one. My last comment is that local knowledge is always helpful. Too, at night, things look differently than during the day. If this is your first go at the Lake, go slow, stay vigilent, and don't be afraid to ask other boaters what works for them.