Is a depth sounder essential on a boat?

[oldharry]

[ QUOTE ]

Not having an echosounder makes for a much more relaxing cruise. Before you set off make a good check of the tides to ensure you will not hit rocks etc then forget about depth until you come in towards shallower mooring areas. Using the lead line then ensures you travel at a safe speed and concentrate on whats going on outside rather than being transfixed on the echosounder.
Try it for a while I can guarantee a more relaxed cruise. /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Hmm, yes - cos you are spending half the time aground......? /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif

 

[Mike21]

Yes, think it's essential, as charts are only as good as the last survey, and especially when going into narrow channels, theres no guarantee that the marked depths are now accurate.
Also very useful at night or in poor visibility, especially going into strange places, as it adds an extra check that you're actually where you think you are