What exactly do you mean by electronic log? All of the navigation software programs such as MaxSea, Expedition etc have the facility to record all of the input data at whatever time interval you choose. eg We use a tracklog on MaxSea where an hourly plot of GPS co-ordinates, SOG and heading are recorded. Can include any other instrument inputs into the tracklog that are available. These are a nice record to have available when you plot your trip out to show where you have been. However, I always insist that each watch manually complete the log book at the end of their watch with such data as barometric pressure,sea state, wind speed and trends, visibility, course and speed, other vessels encountered and general observations. Not so much for the record but to ensure that everyone keeps their eyes open and wits about them. Ultimately it is peoples feelings written down at the time that are the most valuable record you can have.

I have always had paper logs before, but as well as passagemaking, we use our boat for daytripping etc a lot. Was just looking for a way to simplify the record keeping. I have maxsea, but havnt really had time to check out the finer details. Havnt had the crew fill out the log before, but that is a great idea... So looks like maxsea and paper, cheers for he responses!

cisco said..

I am with you Frant. Nothing like the hand written word.

Just to qualify that. I just keep a log of events only; I don't write documentaries. Also I rely heavily on symbols to save time and ink.

Eg, an up arrow with an anchor symbol with a horizontal arrow and the name of a destination. Actions during passage may be up or down eng or main or No 1 etc.

I use a hard cover lined A4 notebook and make two ruler width columns on the left. The first is for date and time and tide times; the second for weather eg SE 15-20, 1 metre. The rest of the page is for events described as briefly as possible. I have a narrow column on the right to record engine hours.

As far as I am aware a written log is still mandatory for commercial vessels. It is also good to have a log to pass on to new owners when a vessel is sold.

As with everything else boating K.I.S.S.