Usually to the left
of the compass would be my
net-book (Toshiba NB305, uses just 15 watts)
with OpenCPN. There's plenty of room for the full size chart as you
can see. And, finally, the picture above is called Throttle Cues because:
-
See the red
on the throttle knob? That means that I'm to keep the red markers to
port. It's a visual clue and helps me. I especially find it useful
when traversing inlets where those markers swap sides
(Red-Right-Returning)
I'm sure there are mariners who don't need these cues. I do, and
when helping neophytes get the hang of boating...
-
The blue
Turk's head is on the wheel meaning to open the thru-hull for
water before starting the engine. I keep thru-hulls closed as a
matter of course. Because mine is easy to access when getting
ready to start then engine this is not a big deal.
Eventually I'll paint that one green so I have a green and red pair.
That will be more ship-like, but for now this serves the purpose. It's not
perfect, but is good enough.
-
Also on the
wheel is a wire tie that shows me when the rudder is dead center.
When in the boatyard that was added. There are specialty gizmos that
will show you the angle of your rudder. Spend the money for one if
you like -- or, make do with something simple.
I did see a boat with a Turk's Head knot tied to one of the spokes
of the wheel. It looks much nicer than mine and is spiffy. That's a
"one of these days" projects.
In the lower right is an
old cleat with a bungee cord. The theory was that I could tie off
the wheel and she'd go straight. Basically, an autopilot for the low-cost
cruiser. The unfortunate thing is my bottom is curvaceous and
Seaweed
won't track.
The bungee
allows for turning the wheel when a crab pot appears. And I'm still
working at that tracking thing. Towing the dink at the far corner
(versus dead aft) helps, but not enough.
Actually,
an autopilot would be ideal. Nope - not one of the
starship Enterprise (er, Star Trek Voyager) variety, but a
simple one that will steer a compass course. That's how I do most of
my navigating anyway... I'd like one. That is probably the next
major post-engine swap investment in my home.
Or two more
solar panels and four batteries. It's a boat. There are always
projects and wishes to be considered. Someday... well, she's
improving each year and that's all one can ask.
There's nothing fancy about
Seaweed, but she works.
Is your boat set up with the latest electronics?
And, what's on your "Wish List" for the helm?
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