Which navigation tools should be used when planning a sea kayak route?

• A. GPS and compass
• B. Chart and compass
• C. Phone app
• D. Landmarks alone

Answer: (B)

Using a nautical chart together with a compass is the best way to plan a sea kayak route. The chart shows coastlines, shoals, depths, hazards, currents, tides, and a scale to measure distances, so you can outline a safe path, estimate travel time, and identify alternate options and safe landing points. The compass lets you translate that plan into a bearing and helps you maintain the intended direction as you plot your course on the chart and later on the water.

Relying on a phone app isn’t as dependable for planning because devices can fail, lose signal, or have outdated data. Landmarks alone don’t provide precise distances or information about hazards and tides, which are essential for safe planning. GPS can be useful during navigation, but the chart-and-compass combination gives you a robust, independent planning method that relies on charted features rather than device-dependent information.