Home / Lessons / Navigation I, II, and III

Navigation I, II, and III


This is an interesting class that is open to all kayakers at all levels, but for paddlers progressing from short day paddles to distance touring or who are planning a multi-day expedition, seamanship and good navigation skills are essential. In this three-part series, Hawk will impart to you all that he has learned from decades of finding his way in the wilderness and traversing long distances of open water. Each part of the navigation course will contain classroom navigation lessons and exercises as well as on-the-water practice.

  • In Part I, we cover the basics of navigation ­ reading and understanding maps and charts; the principles of ded reckoning; course plotting and route selection; and use of navigational instruments such as deck-mounted compass, hand-held bearing compasses, and parallel rules. This course is held on Humboldt Bay.
  • In Part II, we cover ded reckoning in more depth than in part I; piloting along the open coast; use of ranges and transits; triangulation; expedition planning; plotting vector solutions for current; weather and sea conditions, such as wind and fog, that affect navigation; and common sense factors related to getting from point ‘A’ to point ‘B’. This course is held on Trinidad Bay.
  • In Part III, we will cover GPS navigation; night navigation with a night navigation exercise; and further expedition planning for overseas paddling (e.g. IALA Bouyage System). This course is held at night on Humboldt Bay.


    Back | Top of Page
    •  Upcoming Events
    Upcoming events for September 1st, 2010
    Last updated 10:00am

    Trinidad Bay Whale watching & wildlife tour. Sept 5th 9am-noon No prior experience nec. All equipment and instruction provided--$75 (call ahead 4 reservation)

    Humboldt bay wildlife Eco-tour Sat. Sept. 4th 11am-1pm. Kayak lesson included with tour as well as all equipment and expert guides. A great tour for families with children

    RENTALS available for Labor day weekend (call ahead to reserve as boats are limited)

    Sea-kayaking Basics class. Sat Sept 11, 9am-3pm reservation req. (bring a sack lunch)

    Full moon Kayak Tour
    Fri. Sept 24th 7pm-9pm
    Flashlights required. all are welcome. $50pp

    Enjoy some romance on the water. Sunset paddles every Friday 6-8pm $50 (wine and cheese served- 21 and over only)

    * NEW CLASS*
    -Zen and the art of Kayaking. -Hawk will incorporate eastern meditative techniques into boat handling skills for the ultimate kayaking experience. Call for details and dates

    ** Gift Certificates now available **

    Baja Mexico Sea-Kayak adventure. Island hopping in the Sea of Cortez
    Nov 20th-26th 2010.$1150 pp limited space, call for details (EXPEDITION FILLED AS OF AUG 27)

    Be sure to check our Online Calendar for a complete list of upcoming events.
     Latest News
    Sept 1st 2010
    10:00am

    It\'s been an unusually cold summer this year on the Humboldt coast. We see folks from all over the country and world passing through our little rental shop on Humboldt Bay. They can\'t believe this is the sunny California they always heard about. I joke with them that selling fleece and sweaters is booming industry here locally. Things seem to be turning around however with Indian summer kicking in and a string of some very nice, sunny days. We are looking forward to a very active and busy Labor day weekend. Come down for a rental or sign up for one of our world class tours. Humboats leads the way in stellar opportunities for Kayaking with wildlife and top of the line equipment rentals. Check us out. (707) 443-5157

    Humboats is looking to trade our services for some one with Web design capabilities. We might be experts on the water but are all thumbs when it comes to updating and making changes to our website. Any all help is welcome.

    Visit the Humboats Kayaking Forum to read the rest of this article and more.
     Photo of the Week

    Paddler: Lydia and Ranger the dog
    Photographer: Click on photo for full pic
    Comments: Even mans best friend enjoys a relaxing paddle out on the waters of Humboldt bay.



    Welcome Visitor!
    free web counter
    (707) 443-5157     |     info@humboats.com


    Home  |  Lessons  |  Tours  |  Rentals  |  Retail  |  Calendar  |  Photos  |  About Us  |  Links

    All material © Humboats Kayak Adventures  |  Design by SD Digital Designs