If you hope to own a boat one day, then you’re all too familiar with the idyllic and charming daydreams of enjoying warm summers on a lake or taking it out to enjoy the salty ocean breeze. Before you go on a search frenzy and purchase any panga boats for sale, making sure you understand boat navigation’s ins and outs should be prioritized. This guide will help you cover the basics to help you get the right leg up once you get your new boat.
An Introduction to Panga Boats
Most first-time boat buyers are on the lookout for new boats that are perfect for fishing and fall on the high end of the spectrum. If this fits the description of the boat you’re hoping to purchase, then a panga boat might be the best option for you.
Panga boats are modest-sized, outboard-powered, open fishing boats that are often used in many parts of the world, including Central America, Asia, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. Also known as skiffs. This classic design has been around for quite some time and remains a popular choice.
Panga boats are ubiquitous along coastlines in the Americas, Africa, and Asia and are known as an essential low-cost workboat for the last few decades. More people these days are investing in these boats for recreational endeavors, with many panga boat builders creating different versions of the original.
Traditional vs. Electronic Marine Navigation
While many new boat owners will opt for electronic marine navigation systems, some still prefer traditional navigation for different reasons. An electronic option allows the user ease with tools such as GPS systems and radar. Those who opt for traditional marine navigation need to learn skills that are a little more complex, including using a compass, waterway charts, parallel rulers, and dividers. Even if you decide to get a boat with an electronic navigation system, it pays to understand how traditional systems work as well. There are some navigation basics that every boat owner should know for shallow water boats, and it all starts with understanding where you are. Here are some ways to ensure you’re never lost or confused about your location while you’re out on the water.
Locate Three Landmarks
Start by identifying three key charted landmarks so you can identify your location. Any large buildings, water towers, bridges, and other distinct construction landmarks will do.
Use Your Compass
Using your compass, point them in the direction of each landmark. If you’re using a handheld compass, point it steadily in the direction of the landmark. For those using electrical navigation, point the nose of your ship at the landmark.
Record Your Bearings
Record the bearings for each landmark, then use a ruler to draw intersecting with the landmarks as your guide. Do this three times for each landmark to form a small triangle that will pinpoint your location. Once you have this, you can chart a course for your destination. Be sure to focus on your compass while navigating to ensure that you stay on course and arrive safely.
Conclusion
Understanding the basics of navigation for any boat is essential for those intending on buying them. Not only is it important to reach your destination, but knowing the differences between traditional and electronic navigation systems may even save your life. Boating out in the open water is an adventure many people dream about enjoying for themselves someday, and navigation is an essential part of this hobby. When choosing your shallow water boat, consider Panga Sports packages that include the boat, motor, and trailer with delivery anywhere to the USA to start you off, and get a good grasp of navigating it for the best experience possible!
At Panga Sports, we offer affordable all-in-one Panga boat packages complete with boat, engine, trailer, and essential features. To get you on the water smoothly, get in touch with a rep from a quality boat manufacturer in Florida like Panga Sports!