: A GPS can be used in place of a compass but it should not elimiate a compass
: from your gear. A GPS is a more versatile navigation tool in that it can
: give you speed and distance as well as a precise location and accurate
: headings. However a GPS is less reliable because its batteries can die or
: water can get in to the electronics.

: Learn how to use a compass and when you are navigating by GPS keep an eye on
: the compass to see how it agrees/disagrees with what the GPS is telling
: you. This way if your GPS dies mid-crossing you are prepared with enough
: backup info to use your compass.

I agree with Nick.

I don't own a GPS. If I paddled in fog prone areas I probably would get one.

I've loved maps and navigation all my life so I'll rely on my skill for now.

I do own a VHF radio. I feel this is a much more important piece of equipment
than a GPS.

The same problems are there as with any piece of electronic equipment. If your batteries
run out, if your waterproofness is compromised, if you drop it hard, it's junk.

If you don't learn to use it and use it consistantly it will not help much in an emergency.

VHF radios are on board most boats.

The emergency channels are monitored by the Coast Guard, commercial boats and many recreational
boaters.

If you get in trouble you can get help from the nearest boat.

VHF radios have weather channels that give you the lastest weather and marine forcasts.

If you get in the habit of using and monitoring your VHF radio you can learn a lot about
what is going on around you on the water. You can hear local fishermen talking about
conditions, Coast Guard searches for lost boaters, who's meeting on what island for a
picnic and a lot more.

Sea Kayaker had an accident report last year on a couple who died paddling off Dore Pennisula,
Lake Michigan. They had wet suits, weren't wearing them, they had GPS, but they didn't have a
VHF radio. If they had one they would probably have been rescued, or even not gotten into trouble
in the first place, because they would have heard all the other boaters were going in.

I've warned off cruisers headed for kayakers they didn't see with my VHF radio.

I've talked with members of one of my wilderness trips trapped on an island in high seas who
we were waiting for. It was nice to know they were okay and would spend the night safely on that
island.

So my vote is for a VHF radio first, then a GPS.

I own a Raython, Ray 102 compact submersable VHF radio. $210 at Defender.

It fits in my PFD pocket and I have a shock cord that clips onto the lanyard so I don't drop it.

I often turn it on when I hit the water, put it in scan mode and listen to what's up as I paddle.

All the best,

Rob Macks
Laughing Loon CC&K
www.LaughingLoon.com