Radar for the Recreational Boater

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radar screen with gps and radar displayMaritime Radar for Recreational Boater

Fee: $225 Classroom or online through NWTC

Time: Classroom - two days; Online four weeks to complete ~12hrs

Credit: 1

Materials: Manual, Marine Radar Book, Practise plotting tool and charts

Marine Radar is a great tool for any boater. However, if you do not understand radar basics it provides little help. And, if misinterpreted it can result in a dangerous situation. If you have radar, someone on the boat needs to know how to use it. Not just for your safety, but it is also the law.

While you will not be a radar expert, the course will provide the knowledge to operate and begin to understand your display. Then it is practice, practice, practice.

With this course you will understand the basics

• Provides ability to see at night and during restricted visibility.

• Help finding buoys and shoreline.

• Can warn us of approaching dangers, But,

• Captain’s experience with radar operation

• Knowledge of the local operating area,

• Properly installed and operation equipment,

• And, is not a substitute for an alert visual lookout.

Course Topics

Part One - Understanding Radar

• How Radar Works

• “Beam” and Distance

• Installation and Etiquettes

• Radar Operation - Screen and Tools

• Observation and Interpreting

Part Two - Using Radar

• Plotting - Quick review of the basics

• Piloting - Getting around

• Radar and the Navigation Rules

• Collision Avoidance

• AIS

Part Three - Exam