GPS or digital compass?

jetskier · 03-22-2009, 07:55 PM

Hi lakefr,

First, a number of jetskis are equipped with a compass these days, so you might check whether that is part of the instrumentation. If you have not taken the New Hampshire Boaters Certification course, you need to. The course will teach you the basics of how to read the markers etc... In addition, it is pretty much required by law. In addition, you should note that there is now a 45 MPH speed limit.

In terms of a GPS, it is useful to generally determine where you are but you are not really going to watch it while you ride. You need to develop a general knowledge of the lake. The GPS is useful when you find yourself in a part of the lake that you do not recognize and need to determine your location for navigation purposes. I have a topographical GPS that I carry just in case I get lost or weather comes in etc...some areas do not have distinct geographic landmarks and it is possible to get turned around on the lake. If you decide that you want to invest, I can give you some advice.

If you understand the markers, the lake is actually well marked. Especially for a jetski in that it has a very shallow draw.

Jetskier

03-22-2009, 07:55 PM	#11
jetskier Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: North Reading, MA and South Down Shores Posts: 851 Thanks: 57 Thanked 183 Times in 114 Posts	Information Hi lakefr, First, a number of jetskis are equipped with a compass these days, so you might check whether that is part of the instrumentation. If you have not taken the New Hampshire Boaters Certification course, you need to. The course will teach you the basics of how to read the markers etc... In addition, it is pretty much required by law. In addition, you should note that there is now a 45 MPH speed limit. In terms of a GPS, it is useful to generally determine where you are but you are not really going to watch it while you ride. You need to develop a general knowledge of the lake. The GPS is useful when you find yourself in a part of the lake that you do not recognize and need to determine your location for navigation purposes. I have a topographical GPS that I carry just in case I get lost or weather comes in etc...some areas do not have distinct geographic landmarks and it is possible to get turned around on the lake. If you decide that you want to invest, I can give you some advice. If you understand the markers, the lake is actually well marked. Especially for a jetski in that it has a very shallow draw. Jetskier