
Channel navigation
Channel navigation refers to the process of safely guiding vessels through a designated watercourse, typically marked by buoyed paths, to ensure they avoid hazards like shallow areas and rocks. This is crucial in busy waterways to prevent collisions and groundings. Mariners use tools such as maps, GPS, and navigational aids to determine their position and course. Proper channel navigation is essential for safe shipping, fishing, and recreational boating, as it facilitates the efficient movement of goods and people while minimizing the risk of accidents in potentially dangerous waters.