Lectures in Navigation

A practical, no‑nonsense guide written for aspiring junior officers, this text distills the essential principles of maritime navigation into a series of short, classroom‑ready lectures. Drawing on the classic teachings of Bowditch and other respected manuals, the author presents the material in clear, straightforward language, making it accessible even to those encountering these concepts for the first time.

The opening chapters focus on the basics of the compass, explaining both the “old” and “new” ways of marking bearings and how to translate them into ship‑board courses. Each new method is paired with a worked example, and the structure of the course—lecture followed by hands‑on practice—mirrors life on a modern merchant vessel. Later sections introduce the sextant, chart work, and sight‑taking, giving listeners a feel for real‑world navigation drills.

Ideal for both classroom study and independent review, the book balances theory with concise exercises, helping listeners build confidence and competence in the fundamental art of finding a ship’s position at sea.