Avoiding containers

[Gludy]

"whats wrong with the mark one eyeball"

A container may float with just an inch or two out of the water awash with waves etc and be almost impossible to spot.

I always helm from the flybridge even in rough weather - it gives me far better feeling of control but it is still easy to hit things that are partially submerged.

I do not think that anyone can argue that IF a bit of kit was available that worked and really did warn you of dangerous objects in front of you, it would be a significant advance in boat safety. I hope this new bit of kit works.

<hr width=100% size=1>Paul

 

[Gludy]

"From my extencive cruising, I've not hit anything yet. I would wonder what the hell was bleeping at me and probably hit the container anyway while trying to sort out the noise.... "

One of my major problems on the boat is finding out what the bleep means - I must have dozens of possible warnings all of which bleep exactly the same - so yes it does take time to look at screens for a message, look at other screens, look at engine alarms, look at bilge pump indicators etc etc etc.

There is a clear need for a system that manages bleeps a lot better!


<hr width=100% size=1>Paul

 

[BrendanS]

I've one of the FLS, but have played with it as have not yet convinced myself I want to drill a hole in an otherwise perfectly serviceable hull. I put it over side on a bracketed pole, and at low speed going into shallow water areas it's wonderful. Don't see it as being of any use at speed, even though the distance it sweeps ahead is quite useful, as I always navigate in deep water at speed.

This new system is a bit different though, and while 8k is beyond what most would pay for it now, like everything else, will come down in price eventually

<hr width=100% size=1>Utinam logica falsa tuam philisophiam totam suffodiant

 

[Deleted User YDKXO]

It can be quite useful if you are approaching the shore at slow speed to anchor but, as I say, mine has been frustratingly inconsistent and I would'nt want to rely on it

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Gludy]

I have just received more details on the CASS system - its very different to normal forward looking sonar - it works in rogh weather and deep or shallow water and includes a GPS and gyro balanced compass. It provided a colour display of all obtsacles ahead with their depth under the water etc.

Developed from military applications it uses a wideband sonar sweep (like bats do) to see ahead. Forward looking sonar use single frequecny sonar and are very different.

Installation is easy and it uses wireless transmitter to the display.

So get one of these new toys and you have a sort of Bat Boat!

<hr width=100% size=1>Paul