How to: Garmin inReach Explorer + usage

[LeeV]

I have a new Garmin unit and will use it for the first time on the delivery trip of our new to us catamaran from Florida to The Chesapeake Bay. I have it set up but I wondered what settings most folks are using.

How often do you have it report current location? Every 10 minutes? 30? 60? Every 2 hours?

Do you let it run 24/7 when offshore?

Thanks for sharing!

[Ded reckoner]

I have our unit set to report current location every 10min. I run the system continuously when on a passage. We file an informal float plan with someone (friends or family) when we depart, so we know someone will be watching the tracking data (or be actively engaged via texting). When we arrive at our destination, we notify that someone so the float plan is closed informally.

[LeeV]

Originally Posted by Ded reckoner

I have our unit set to report current location every 10min. I run the system continuously when on a passage. We file an informal float plan with someone (friends or family) when we depart, so we know someone will be watching the tracking data (or be actively engaged via texting). When we arrive at our destination, we notify that someone so the float plan is closed informally.

Thanks for that. I’ve done offshore travel; I’ve just never had one of these. I have all the other gear I need, but I wasn’t sure how crowded a map or chart would become for the family f I was sending something every 10 minutes.