My primary GPS is a decade-old Garmin 12, that's pre-WASS, and doesn't have built-in maps. I most helpful on long crossings, where it lets you paddle the optimum course with drift allowed for in real time. (Of course, if you know there's going to be a major tidal stream building up during your crossing, you may want to proactively aim off to port or starboard of your intended waypoint.) The GPS is also great for sailing, where the difference between your heading and your course can be significant - even a few degrees can add up over many nautical miles. With the GPS, if you've got the destination waypoint, you can sail directly there, wind speed and direction permitting. Plus the GPS gives you bragging rights: "I was making 5.3 knots - my GPS said so." Ironically, my back-up GPS, a Geko, has WASS, so it's more accurate. But the screen is smaller and "squintier," so it'll ride in a waterproof baggie attached to the webbing on my PFD, ready for use if the main GPS on deck craps out, or for radioing my position via VHF if I need help and am seperated from my boat. Philip ________________________________________________________________________ Check Out the new free AIM(R) Mail -- 2 GB of storage and industry-leading spam and email virus protection. *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
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