Gary wrote in
news:7L3Pf.112368$B94.94115@pd7tw3no:

otnmbrd wrote:
Gary wrote in
news:uuQOf.109032$B94.27750@pd7tw3no:


And how did you check the error on that deck watch? Radio? What was
the error and how much does it change daily? Can't just do the time
check anymore. Damn lightening.

Most watches/clocks are fairly consistent in their rate of error.
Prior to your loss of electronics you would have/should have been
maintaining a log of the watch/clock you would use for this type
emergency so that you would know not only it's error but daily rate.
You apply this error and daily rate to your calculations.

otn
Just my point, but who actually is doing this? Thank goodness for the
GPS.


This series of arguments/discussions, comes up on a fairly regular
basis.
All it takes are statements such as "there is no viable alternative to
GPS" for offshore navigation, or, "celestial is too inaccurate" to bring
those of us with extensive backgrounds in "oldtime navigation" out of
the woodwork.
Who is doing this? In all honesty, anyone who is frequently involved
with offshore navigation and is aware of the possibilities. G It takes
no time and relieves some of the watchstanding boredom and might save
your butt, someday.
I am not talking about 99% of the recreational boaters in this group who
rarely get more than one day from landfall, but rather those who are apt
to take extended cruises wherein you need to plan and be ready for the
worst.
All too often, todays boaters/cruisers tend to feel there is no need to
know anything other than how to turn on their GPS. We hear about them
all the time.....overdue, missing, presumed dead.


otn