Boat navigation has come a long way in the past few decades. Gone are the days of relying solely on charts and compass readings. With the advent of modern technology, it’s now possible to plan and navigate a boat route using tools like Google Maps.

If you’re new to using Google Maps for boating, don’t worry. It’s a relatively straightforward process. Here are the steps you need to take to plan a boat route using Google Maps.

1. Open Google Maps

The first step, of course, is to open Google Maps on your computer, phone, or tablet. If you don’t already have it installed, you can download the app for free from the App Store or Google Play Store.

2. Switch to Satellite View

Next, switch over to satellite view by clicking on the “Satellite” button in the bottom left-hand corner of the screen. This view will give you a better idea of the layout of the waterways and any obstacles that may be in your path.

3. Identify Key Points

Identify your starting point and your end destination on the map. You can drop a pin on the map by clicking and holding on the location you want, or you can type in the addresses or coordinates directly.

4. Select Your Route

Once you’ve identified your start and end points, you can use the Directions feature to plan your route. Click on the “Directions” button, enter your starting point and your destination, and select “Boat” as your mode of transportation.

5. Adjust Your Route

Depending on your needs, you may need to make adjustments to your route. You can do this by clicking and dragging the route-line to a different location on the map. Alternatively, you can add additional stops or waypoints to your route by clicking on the “+” button and inputting the additional locations.

6. Save Your Route

Once you’re happy with your route, you can save it by clicking on the “Save” button. This will allow you to access your route later and make any necessary updates or changes.

7. Navigate Your Route

Finally, it’s time to navigate your route. You can use your phone or tablet as a navigation device by following the highlighted route on the map. If you have a GPS-enabled device, you can even use it to track your progress in real-time.

In conclusion, using Google Maps for a boat route is an easy and effective way to plan and navigate your trip. With a few simple steps, you can plan your route, make adjustments, and save your map for future use. Just remember to always keep a backup navigation plan, such as a paper chart, in case your GPS device fails.