Chart Navigation & Plotting · Set and Drift

Your intended track is 090° at 10 knots. A current sets 180° at 2 knots. Ignoring leeway, your track made good will be deflected toward the:

Explanation

A current setting 180° (toward the south) pushes the vessel south of an easterly (090°) intended track. To make good the 090° track the navigator must steer slightly north (into the current) to offset the set.

Authority: Bowditch, American Practical Navigator (Pub. 9), current sailing

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