GPS in the dark
 

Unless you have updated your gps cartography, do not rely on it while running in the dark. 5:30am there was a twin engine boat run aground at the tip of the hook. Judging by the distance it was from the water, I would say they were going balls out when it happened. The tip of the hook has changed shape since Sandy and most of us are running with cartography that was made before Sandy. If you don't have radar wait until you can see where you're going.

Re: GPS in the dark
 

The channel have not changed if you stay in the channels you will be ok. But you do have to be extra careful.

Re: GPS in the dark
 

Most quality GPS units should offer a return course taken off ur outgoing course!
If u followed it out & ran without issue then return should be accurate as well & like suggested following channels is always best bet in dark . U can also maintain a log to give u a set of courses from several locations such as a channel buoy to be sure of ur return accuracy.
Slow down if not sure of ur course & recheck ur position of ur chart . It's good to check channel markers with ur spotlight &'proceed once ur position is affirmed .
I personally always slow down in dark , run with spot , since hitting an object on a return offshore trip that disabled one out drive many moons ago !

Re: GPS in the dark
 

When I had a boat I'd save waypoints for say Sandy Hook but never so tight that I'd be right on land for it to be referenced. I'd set the point 1000' off land. It gave me the point to motor up to, make the point and be safe, and then the next turn from there. But it kept me from land a safe distance. Based on direction I was to travel I had two different points to that same location.

Same thing I did for keyport. I never saved keyport as the town but the outer marker to the channel. I was clear and had my safe return from that.