First Time Nightime Cruising

[Jfrano]

Just took the boat out first time in the night. Knowing there would be new lessons, only went like 1/2 mile to get a better position for fireworks from our slip. So I found it difficult to see the switches? Also the chart plotter is particularly blinding. Using the red lights helps .

What tips do people have on navigating at night?
Thanks
Joe

 

[Karll]

The plotter should adjust for night travel, haven’t tried it on our Ranger but on my SeaSport it was pretty easy dial.You should be able to look it up on your manual.

 

[Rocky]

My Garmin 7612 had the same issue...... Hit the power switch quickly once and a touch screen adjustment for the brightness came up...... I had to look in the manual to find out how easy it is to adjust.

I hope that helps!

Rocky

 

[jlhowland]

A red lens AA Mini Maglight clipped in below the helm station to help find switches and whatnot without destroying my night vision.

 

[knotflying]

The chartplotter can have and auto or manual setting for the backlight. As stated above hit the power button and the menu should come up. I found the auto set a bit too low when it picks up ambient lighting and I manually adjust it. I always worry about logs and crab pots when traveling at night. Going slow and a good floodlight mounted properly so you do not get glare off the rails is critical. Also make sure your navigation lights are functioning properly prior to departure.

 

[bob daily]

Along with what others have said remember it takes around 25 to 30 minute for your eyes to entirely adjust to the dark. You also need to avoid looking directly at bright light sources while you are navigating in the dark in order to see better in the dark. Hope this improves your night vision. Bob