The Barefoot Navigator

Publisher: Adlard Coles Nautical

Publication Date: 2006

CA Library Reference:

This book is based on simple ancient navigation techniques. These almost zero technologies maybe used in survival situations. Part One discusses ancient navigation giving information on the Pharaohs, Phoenicians, Arabs, Chinese, Polynesians and Vikings. A number of myths are dispelled from this era. Part Two indicates a selection of techniques based on the four parts of the day: dawn, day, dusk, dark. Headings maybe found using sunrise and sunset, trade winds, wave movement and celestial bodies. Stars also indicate latitude. Indications as to possible landfall are discussed. Angles may be measured roughly using the hand.

A DIY Low Tech navigation section starts with a refresher on Dead Reckoning. Improvising an analogue watch to make a compass is illustrated. Home made logs as well as the Dutchman’s log are mentioned. Latitude and longitude can be found using a Polar stick. Astrolabe, cross staff, back staff, sun shadow board and quadrants are discussed with details of their construction. The quartz watch is mentioned for longitude, without which we are almost sunk. He makes a concession to this modern technology.

The final part of this well illustrated and easy to follow publication discusses the all-embracing Grab Bag. He suggests many items including GPS, quartz watch and a sextant. The Appendices give tables and drawings of the instruments discussed in earlier chapters which are also available for download from his informative website. - PH