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ARCTIC STAR OPERATING MANUAL
NW Explorations
You will primarily be using the STBY and ENGAGE buttons to enter autopilot mode or manual
steering mode. If you need to dodge an object such as a log or floating debris, push STBY and
hand steer to avoid the object then return to your compass course and push the ENGAGE
button. To adjust your course as needed press the buttons below the arrow keys to add or
subtract one degree.
An autopilot control panel is also mounted on the flybridge helm. You have control of the
autopilot from either unit. That is, you may engage the autopilot at the lower helm and then
move to the upper helm and use the control unit at the upper helm.
7.3
Chartplotter
Arctic Star has Garmin GPSmap 8616xsv chartplotter networked with three multifunction
display (MFD) screens, autopilot, radar, and sounder. Touch-screen menus are intuitive and are
user friendly. If you use Navionics on your cell phone or tablet, you will learn to use the Garmin
chart plotter easily. This is an advanced navigation system, and it will be helpful to study the
operator’s manual at the link below:
There are also several YouTube tutorials that will help you become familiar with this system.
These are third-party produced videos that are not endorsed by Garmin and not endorsed by
NW Exploration however, some useful tips can be gleaned from these videos. The 1
st
link below
is an in-depth tutorial with a Garmin representative and the second is a video produced by the
manufacturer of Ranger Tugs and Cutwater boats:
1.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvXJefVlrnE
2.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_9h1XNBN4A
Online video tutorials for specific topics can be viewed from the Garmin website:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZQteomUj15N9sa_ObaGL_zYO8DX-8liE
Note:
Electronic aids to navigation are tools to assist you with navigating through the islands
and reefs in our cruising area. You are, however, responsible to always know your location, and
to operate in a safe manner. Rule 5 of the Navigation Rules of the Road state:
“
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing as well as
by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as
to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision
.” (COLREGS Rule #5).
We recommend that as you are learning to use the chart plotter, a second crew member should
be with you to keep watch as you are cruising. It is quite easy to become distracted with the
navigation electronics.