There are a number of devices that are indispensable when sailing. Modern navigation equipment, for example, provides certainty, as it is quite easy to find your way across the water with GPS equipment. In fog, a radar ensures that you are visible yourself and that you do not overlook others on the water. There are also a number of other useful devices that you definitely need on board your own boat.
The right equipment provides extra safety and contact with the outside world. This also increases your sailing pleasure. Read on quickly to find out what really shouldn't be missing on your boat. Also pay attention when buying a boat, what equipment is already present, because this will save you extra costs later.
VHF radio on board
For communication on the water, the VHF radio is indispensable. The VHF radio is therefore mandatory for commercial shipping. On Dutch inland waterways, it is not mandatory for recreational craft to have a VHF radio on board, but it is recommended. Especially on waterways where recreational and commercial shipping cross paths, the use of a VHF radio provides more safety.
If you decide to buy a marine radio, it must be equipped with an ATIS code. After releasing the transmit key, a digital signal is transmitted containing the ship's call sign. On inland waterways, it is not permitted to use a marine radio without this ATIS code.
Are you also going to sail at sea? Then it is wise to choose a combi marine radio. This version of the marine radio is more extensive and has DSC in addition to ATIS. This stands for Digital Selective Calling and is a digital emergency and calling system. The installation of a marine radio is quite simple. For a clear signal, it is important that a good antenna is present.
Radar for recreational boating
A radar scanner rotates and emits pulses. These pulses are converted into light points on a screen when they are reflected by an object. By using radar, you can determine the direction and speed of other moving objects, in this case boats. By connecting the radar to the GPS, a steering device, AIS or electronic compasses, much more data can be retrieved.
Regulations concerning radar are quite complex. If you know where you will be sailing, you can find out if it is necessary to have a radar on board in that area. In addition, it is essential to learn how to use this device properly, because for inexperienced users it can pose a lot of danger.
To be allowed to sail on radar, you must be in possession of a Rhine patent or boating licence. In addition, your ship must be equipped with a good compass and/or turn indicator to be allowed to sail on open waters.
Chartplotter system
A chartplotter is a very practical instrument. The plotter shows the position of your boat on the nautical chart. So you can see at a glance where you are and what your surroundings look like. Whether you have a lot or a little sailing experience, this way you can plan a safe sailing route.
AIS (Automatic Identification System)
An AIS system shows on a full-color plotter screen which other ships are crossing your waterway. This system not only shows the location, but also the identity of the ships. Do the ships you encounter have their own AIS receiver in view? Then you are also visible on their screen. Especially in fog, this provides more safety.
Lighting for safety
Do you ever sail in the dark? Then it is important that you are clearly visible to other ships. Make sure there is enough lighting on board. For example, you can mount a lamp with 360-degree LED light with a suction cup base. This type of lamp is easy to move and can therefore be used in different places.
