We have busy investigating purchasing a class B AIS transponder for about a year now. After much deliberation we opted for a Onwa KP708A, which would double up as a backup chart plotter. Prior to purchase the agent emailed us several chart images showing the cartography as this plotter is available with built in K2 or K3, or for an additional charge Navionics charting. We opted for K2 charting, as K3 was a bit 'clunky' in operation, with the option later down the line to install Navionics if necessary after getting used to the unit.
The set came with a Puck aerial for internal installation as standard, but we also upgraded to an external 'mushroom' GPS aerial. In addition a Scout AIS 3ft aerial and stainless steel rachet mount was purchased for AIS transmit and receive signals.
All of this came with the challenge of reconfiguring the dashboard, which gave us the opportunity to mount various instruments to give us better visibility to use. This involved relocating the bow thruster control and clock, and then making two modules to house the six units, without making the dashboard look too cluttered. We think this has been quite a successful but time consuming exercise, but will be a good beneficial additional safety aid.
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This weekend we had a trip up the canal to Pollington. This has been our first opportunity to stay overnight on Moonshine since lockdown eased. Next weekend, we plan on visiting Hull Marina for a well earned five day break.
