Before GPS? Um, charts and landmarks? Obviously, easier here where there's an abundance of unique features. Miles of straight beaches and hotels can be very difficult to distinguish for sure. Always a challenge at new locations (NAs, etc.).

For mark boat work, I use everything: GPS, depth sounder, anemometer, laser range finder, binoculars, and a good hockey puck compass. Always prefer to sanity check with a string or flag (telltale).

For sailing, I have a Ronstan Clear Start watch, which is nice on the Wave, but I prefer my Timex Ironman wristwatch most times. I don't use a compass, but have considered adding a Tacktick. That's about the extent of what's allowed for Hobie class racing.

Will never leave the beach (on any boat) without a VHF for safety, of course. Made that mistake early on in my career (third time out on a Hobie, first time singlehanded), spent the night turtled, cold and alone. Have seen too many close calls at regattas, never let safety in numbers fool you, stuff happens fast, and the other boats aren't always as close as you think, and the RC isn't able to see everything.

Mike