Learn navigation skills and assemble the tools that will get you to your destination. If you use a chart (or map) to plan your trip in advance, a parallel ruler will be a great aid. Dividers will help you measure distance. The nautical compass can be used as a small craft navigation tool (aka plotter), on board, or in combination with a parallel ruler when using a topo map on shore. GPS users will find the UTM grid read handy. See Our Related Article: Planning Your Route and Finding Your Way with Kayak Navigation