Coastal Navigation

This Chapter discusses coastal navigation, which is navigation within sight of land but not in such proximity to dangers that pilotage techniques are required. Coastal navigation can be some of the most complex and challenging for the mariner, as whilst the ship will not be so close to danger as during pilotage, the ship will usually be in a lower state of readiness, and yet the coastal environment is potentially extremely busy with other shipping, fishing vessels, yachts, and hazards. Coastal navigation therefore requires considerable care and attention both during the planning and execution of the passage.