The U.S. Coast Guard stresses the importance of following the guidelines provided by them to promote boating safety. Those guidelines advise boaters on how to be prepared and ready for almost anything on the water by taking the guess work out of boating safety; and among other things has determined what is considered required boating safety equipment and navigational aids.
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Marine navigational aids would consist of maps and charts, knowing the “Rules of the Road”, a two-way communication system, and a Global Positioning System.
It would be hard to find a person who is not familiar with what a “GPS” is and what they are used for. Many people have one in their automobiles and the number of those people with GPS for boats is growing.
Is it a good idea to have a GPS for boats, as part of the marine navigational aids on board your boat? Sure it is – but, maybe not as a stand-alone all in one navigational aid.
As a boater, you could use a regular GPS for your boat, whether it is a hand held or stationary mounted model. Since both the regular GPS and the GPS for boats will tell you where on earth you are and both will either have maps already downloaded or for a small fee, you can get maps downloaded from the Internet, either one would work in conjunction with the charts and maps.
But, when deciding which is best for you there are a few things you would want to keep in mind. Marine GPS for boats do have a few or a lot of other tricks designed for boaters, depending on the amount of money you want to spend, such as:
So, depending on the bells and whistles you require will determine the cost of the gadget. Any way you go, the GPS will be a good addition to your navigational aids.
It is said that maps and charts are the most important part of any navigational aids. Sailors have been exploring this world with the aid of maps and charts for centuries – that has not changed.
Maps and charts are very different from one another. Charts show what is beneath the surface of the water, what cannot be seen just by looking, but is necessary to know for safe and effective navigation, while maps only show the surface, and cannot be used to plot your course. There are too many things that weather and man has had effects on and maps are stagnate, charts are not. Charts and maps can be purchased online.
The next part of your Marine Navigational Aids is knowing the “Rules of the Road,” which is essential in boat navigation. The USCG states “Aids to Navigation Are the Waterways’ Road Signs.” Safely driving a car would be nearly impossible if you did not know street signs, stop signs, barriers, detours and even stop lights.
The USCG has a pamphlet – U.S. Aids To Navigation System – which they recommend be printed and kept on board as part of the navigational aids.
It is important to know the basics at least, and the more you know, the safer you, your family, and your boat will remain. You will learn what to do when you have to interact with other boats and how to read the charts – symbols and colors – which you will encounter on the water.
For instance, when in a channel, and you are heading to shore with open water behind you, make sure the red colors and lights remain on your starboard side (right side) and when heading out to open waters, the green colors and lights remain on your starboard side; some boaters use the “3R Rule” which is “Red, Right, Returning.”
When coming up to another boat, head to head, each would preferably pass port to port side with one short horn blast to alert your intent, and one short blast for agreement. If it is necessary to pass starboard, then two short horn blasts from both boats.
It is always the preference to pass on the port side with one short blast.
It is also imperative to learn the colors and images for warnings. Each color and design is there to give warning that for whatever reason, a boat is not allowed or permitted in an area.
Taking these extra steps, learning the “Rules of the Road,” is only part of the Marine Navigational Aids.
It is also recommended to have a two-way communication system of some sort on board. We all know that cell phones do not go every where and often lose their connectivity when out on the water.
Keeping everyone on board your boat and around your boat safe is the responsibility of the operator and is required by the USCG and your boat insurance company.
We’re pleased to present insights from Chris Smith, the Applications Engineering Manager at Orga BV / Tideland Signal. An industry expert in navigational aids, Chris shares insights on the evolution and benefits of upgrading Tideland Systems.
Navigational aids have been crucial in ensuring the safe operations of marine vessels for centuries. Just as ships and seafaring techniques have evolved, so have the technologies and solutions used to guide them. Today, I am pleased to shed light on the evolution of Tideland Signal’s navigational aids and the immense benefits that come with upgrading these systems.
Tideland’s Legacy: 6 Decades of Reliability
For over 60 years, Tideland Signal, now an integral part of the Orga group, has stood as a pillar of innovation and reliability. With a commitment to safety, we have ensured that ports, harbours, and offshore structures worldwide are marked with efficient, high-quality solutions. Working together with Orga BV, we can now showcase our solutions in addition to Orga’s own well established Aids to Navigation product range.
Harnessing Advanced Technologies for Navigational Aids
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Tideland’s suite is not only a collection of devices but a testament to technical innovation and industry expertise. With offerings ranging from marine lanterns and foghorns to racons and AIS AtoN, our solutions are continually evolving to meet the challenging demands of the marine environment.
Efficiency and Sustainability: Our newest systems are designed with sustainability in mind. They boast significantly lower power consumption rates, giving them increased autonomy, are cost-effective and environmentally responsible.
Enhanced Performance: With cutting-edge technology, our navigational aids offer unparalleled performance and reliability, ensuring they remain visible even in the most challenging conditions. This clarity is paramount for safety, especially in bustling marine environments.
A prime example of Tideland’s evolving technology is the MLED-150Ex -10NM External powered marine lantern:
Smooth Upgrades: Embracing the New While Respecting the Old
One of the many advantages of our newer solutions is the ease with which they can be integrated. Those utilising existing Tideland Systems need not worry about a complete overhaul.
Adaptable Systems: Upgrading doesn’t mean starting from scratch. Operators can seamlessly integrate newer systems, like our efficient Marine Lanterns, into their existing Tideland infrastructure, achieving enhanced performance without the need for complete replacement.
No-Hassle Implementation: Our dedication is to ensure an easy transition for our customers. As such, upgrading with Tideland is now quicker, more straightforward, and failsafe.
Consider this recent project as a prime example:
A Jackup, originally built in the Far East, incorporated both 15- and 10-mile Incandescent Tideland Light Stations, along with 3 Mile Subsidiary Lights, all tied to an older control panel and charger.
Recognising a need for modernisation, Tideland collaborated with the client, laying out a phased upgrade plan tailored to their budget and timeline. This strategy allows for individual upgrades of both Main and Secondary Stations using state-of-the-art, adaptable LED light stations. Importantly, these changes won’t disrupt the existing system during the transition.
By the end of this overhaul, all Main, Secondary, and Subsidiary light stations will shine brilliantly with the advanced MLED-180 Hi EX/MLED-150EX LED lights. The result? Superior performance, enhanced reliability, and notably reduced power and maintenance needs. This ensures the rig’s smooth operations for years to come. What’s more, Tideland offered insights into potential enhancements for the control and charger system, guaranteeing its support in the long run.
Offshore Decommissioning: Shining Light on a Growing Need
As the offshore sector evolves, decommissioning gains prominence. In this regard, the role of our lighting systems cannot be understated:
Wellhead Electrical Supplies: A Trusted Distributor
Wellhead Electrical Supplies (WES) has been instrumental in distributing Orga Tideland products, ensuring that our cutting-edge solutions reach a wide audience. WES shares our commitment to quality, innovation, and safety, making them a perfect partner in our journey. For 25 years, Orga BV and Wellhead have been collaborating closely. Our partnership goes beyond mere business:
Tailored Solutions: Together, we offer solutions specifically tailored to meet unique operational requirements. This ensures that clients receive a product and service that fits their exact needs.
Shared Vision: Our collective emphasis on safety, innovation, and quality ensures that we stay ahead of the curve, offering the very best to the marine and offshore sectors.
Upgrading your Tideland Systems is more than just embracing new technology. It’s a commitment to enhanced safety, efficiency, and operational excellence. Whether you’re operating in ports, harbours, or offshore environments, now is the perfect time to take the next step in navigational aids evolution.
Ready to make the transition and experience the benefits first hand? Get in touch with Wellhead Electrical Supplies today and our range of Orga Tideland products. Upgrade to the future of marine safety.
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