Traditional Navigation

Traditional navigation refers to methods used before electronic tools to determine a vessel’s position and direction. It relies on natural and physical cues such as observing the sun, stars, and horizon, using a compass for direction, and measuring angles and distances with tools like the sextant and stopwatch. Navigators also consult maps like nautical charts and employ dead reckoning—calculating current position based on previous position, course, speed, and time. These techniques require skill, experience, and careful observation, enabling mariners to traverse open waters accurately before modern GPS technology was available.