wrote in message
ups.com...
having GPS suddenly go off? This may well be an "end."


Not the "end" if you maintain a proper watch and can still remember how to
navigate, using traditional methods we used before GPS.

I don't mean reverting to Celestial, just maintain your plot/log and use DR
until your obtain a position fix using other basic methods.

Of my 48 years of boating, only in the last 2 years have I had
GPS/Loran/digital charts. I will admit that I find GPS and digital charts
very accurate and convenient, to the extent that I frequently neglect to
maintain my plot. However, last summer I was reminded the hard way, when the
power failed to my nav station while I was negotiating (for the first time)
the tricky Hammersley Inlet (So. Puget Sound). With 6-8 knot current
running, there was little time to take bearings and plot position. In this
case, I relied on the "ole MK I Eyeball" and description provided in my
cruising guide (shoreline references, etc.).

IMHO, a brief loss (day/month or so) shouldn't be the ended of recreational
boating. Just an opportunity to employ the traditional methods we all should
be familiar with.

My opinion, FWIW.

Steve
s/v Good Intentions