Nautical navigation is the art and science of guiding a vessel safely between locations, involving position fixing, route plotting, and monitoring speed, direction, and hazards. Key terms include bearing (direction to an object), course (planned path), and dead reckoning (estimating position based on previous speed/time).

Key Navigation and Directional Terms:
Bearing: The direction of an object from the vessel, measured in degrees.

Chart: A map designed for maritime use showing water depths and hazards.

Course: The intended direction of travel.

Fix: The precise position of a vessel determined by navigation aids.

Dead Reckoning (DR): Estimating position by projecting a previously known position using speed, time, and course.

AIS (Automatic Identification System): A system that automatically provides identification, position, and speed to other ships.

Cardinal Directions: True North, South, East, West used for navigation.