Log Books/Reference Books
Why Marine Log Books & Navigation Reference Books Matter
Even in the age of GPS chartplotters and digital navigation apps, printed log books and navigation reference books remain essential tools aboard any well-prepared vessel. Electronics can fail — batteries die, screens crack, and connectivity drops in remote waters. A quality reference book or ship's log doesn't need a power source, a software update, or a cell signal. For serious mariners, these publications aren't relics of the past; they're a critical layer of redundancy that can make the difference between a safe passage and an emergency situation.
A ship's log book serves as the official record of a vessel's voyage — tracking position fixes, course changes, weather observations, crew notes, engine hours, and fuel consumption. Beyond its practical value underway, a well-kept log is an invaluable tool for trip planning, insurance documentation, and even legal compliance. Navigation reference books, meanwhile, put charts, rules of the road, tide tables, current data, and piloting techniques within arm's reach of the helm — right where you need them.
What to Look for in Marine Navigation References
- Relevance to your cruising area: Tide tables and current data are region-specific. Make sure the publication covers your waters.
- Annual vs. permanent editions: Tide and current publications are updated yearly for accuracy. Rules of the road and piloting references may serve you for many seasons.
- Waterproof or weather-resistant construction: The cockpit is a wet environment. Look for laminated cards or water-resistant pages when possible.
- Scope of content: The best references bundle multiple topics — navigation rules, weather interpretation, buoyage systems, and emergency procedures — into a single, easy-to-use format.
Top Brands in Marine Log Books & Navigation References
Davis Instruments is a trusted name in marine navigation tools, producing quick-reference cards and guides used by the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Power Squadrons, and the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Their navigation reference cards cover everything from inland and international rules of the road to the U.S. Buoyage System, lights, sound signals, and COLREGS — all presented in a clear, graphic format designed for fast access in critical situations.
Eldridge Tide Book has been the go-to annual reference for East Coast mariners since 1875. Often called the "mariner's bible," the Eldridge Tide and Pilot Book covers tides and currents for ports from Nova Scotia to Key West, alongside information on GPS navigation, marine weather, Federal regulations, coastal piloting tips, and emergency first aid — an indispensable backup to any onboard electronics.
Ritchie Navigation brings over 170 years of marine expertise to the navigation category. Best known for precision magnetic compasses, Ritchie also offers marine log books and supporting navigation references that complement their instrument lineup, making them a trusted resource for boaters who demand accuracy and reliability from every piece of gear on board.