Seamanship and the Modern Mariner

This is an 8-hour classroom course that takes an in-depth look at marine radar operation on recreational vessels.  It is "non-denominational", in that it is equally applicable to both power and sail.  The course considers radar specifications and the resulting benefits (or handicaps) they yield, installation considerations, radiation safety, limitations, adjusting brilliance and gain, use of optimization tools such as STC and FTC, and the various display modes (head-up, course-up and north-up).  Operation of the radar is discussed, including the various controls and their effects, and screen interpretation, shadows, beam width and sea clutter issues.  Benefits of radar use for position navigation and piloting are given considerable attention, as is the use of radar for collision avoidance.  Finally, the course covers the applicabilioty of the Navigation Rules for collision avoidance in restricted visibility. 

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The required text is Radar For Mariners, by David Burch, together with a Course Workbook.  The textbook and workbook may or may not be included as part of the cost of the Radar Course; please check details of course announcement.