Before using the sextant you must note the index error. All sextants have an index error, especially plastic instruments which have to be checked regularly. When you have achieved an…
celestial navigation
How ancient navigation techniques can still help sailors today
Yacht navigation can be defined as knowing which way to go. This sounds simple, but to do it you need to process three complex pieces of information. Firstly, you need…
Astronavigation in the South Atlantic
Simon van Dam relies on astronavigation to sail to the remote South Atlantic island of Tristan da Cunha
Edward Walentynowicz: Golden Globe Race 2022 skipper
With over 67,000 sailing miles under his belt, Canadian skipper Edward Walentynowicz is hoping to finish in the top half of the 2022 Golden Globe Race fleet. He shares how…
Celestial navigation: understanding the night sky
You don't need complicated maths or even a sextant to enjoy the night sky and use it for navigation, says William Thomson
Yachting Monthly April 2021 – on sale 4 March
Inside the April issue of Yachting Monthly you will find a focus on 'green' issues, plus shakedown sailing skills, cruising adventures, gear and more