Basically the oldest functioning navigational equip is the compass.
Then the binoculars in my opinion.
Then depth sounders.
Chart plotters are the best thing that's happened to boating since fiberglass.
I think multi-function instruments and displays have little value. I prefer dedicated everything.
But when to buy more modern equipment is basically a matter of money. The twirly flashing light sounder is going over the side on my boat. I feel I need two sounders. One high quality w digital display and large numbers. the other basically a fish finder to "read" the bottom as I go.
I think there's lots and lots of "stuff" that we think of as necessities now that really aren't. We don't really need cell phones or even cars but there's lots of "things" we have just to have stuff or the latest stuff. Much of it is just want stuff. But for navigation aids the "I want that" and "that's really cool" should be separated from the I need that or that would increase safety so much I think it's worth it. Bang for the buck is the bottom line.
When I was in Alaska we went through Rocky Pass several times. Without my chartplotter I would'nt go there.
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Eric
North Western Washington State USA
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