Introduction to Traditional Navigation Theory
with Teresa Carey & Ben Eriksen Carey
A solid introduction to the nautical chart, its symbols, and essential navigation tools
In an age where GPS and chart plotter technology is becoming extremely reliable and affordable, the art and appreciation for traditional navigation practices are waning. Many people leave the dock and go sailing with insufficient skills in navigation. Traditional navigation, with honed techniques, can be equally reliable, and fast. This online class will improve your seamanship by teaching you essential navigation theory.
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Who is this online class for?
This online class is for those looking for a solid introduction to the nautical chart and its symbols, the navigation tools you’ll need, and the concepts used in traditional, non-electronic navigation for finding your position. You’ll walk away with some new skills you can use right away, and a desire to put them into practice, because navigation is fun!
List of Topics
- The essential nav tools
- Features of a chart: colors and symbols
- Shipboard references
- Using a hand bearing compass
- Lines of position
- Calculating your speed
- Fixing your position via triangulation
- Using a red sector, and other nav aids
- Deduced reckoning
Your Instructors
TERESA CAREY
Teresa Carey is a US Coast Guard licensed captain, writer, and educator. Teresa is the co-owner of Morse Alpha Expeditions, a coastal and offshore sail-training program in the Atlantic. She has worked aboard a variety of sail and power boats like schooners, motor yachts, sailing yachts, and even a lobster boat — as the captain, educator, delivery crew, and charter boat captain. She taught for sea programs such as Outward Bound and has also been a Marine Science educator. Teresa lived aboard a 27-foot boat and sailed the northern Atlantic solo for a few years. She has given inspiring talks, such as her 2011 TED talk and 2012 National Women’s Sailing Association Keynote Speaker Address. She is also a science journalist and podcast producer, and she writes for NPR, Buzzfeed, The Smithsonian, and more.
BEN ERIKSEN CAREY
Ben Eriksen Carey holds a 200-ton US Coast Guard Master’s License, and a 500-ton Mate. He is co-owner of Morse Alpha Expeditions, a coastal and offshore sail-training program. He has worked aboard schooners, tugboats, sailing, and motor yachts — as captain, mate, and even dishwasher. Ben has a long list of maritime certifications including safety, firefighting, medical, etc. He began his sea life as a clammer in Stonybrook Harbor, NY. Ben pursued a degree in Human Ecology from Connecticut College with a focus on marine biology. In 1992 Ben attended the Sea Education Association (SEA) program, which sparked his love for sailing. He lived aboard Elizabeth, his 28ft cutter while chasing his girlfriend Teresa’s 27ft sloop, Daphne for several years. It worked because now they are married. He is excited to teach cruising and sailing again this summer with Morse Alpha Expeditions.
