What is the optimal frequency for plotting a dead reckoning position while in open ocean?

The optimal frequency for plotting a dead reckoning position while in open ocean is every hour on the hour. This time frame allows for efficient and accurate tracking of a vessel’s position without overwhelming the navigator with frequent updates that could lead to confusion or mistakes.

In open ocean conditions, where navigational conditions may be more stable, an hourly update provides sufficient time to assess the vessel's drift, current, and any potential obstacles while still maintaining awareness of the vessel's position. It also aligns well with typical navigation practices, where an hour allows for the accumulation of enough data from speed and heading changes to make informed decisions.

While more frequent updates, such as every half hour or every 30 minutes, can enhance situational awareness, they may lead to unnecessary complexity in data management and are not typically warranted in open ocean navigation where conditions tend to be less variable than in coastal waters.