Estimated Position (EP)
The approximate location of a vessel determined by dead reckoning, and accounting for external factors such as wind (Leeway) and Tide.
An Estimated Position (EP) is a crucial concept in marine navigation, especially when precise fixes, such as those derived from celestial observations or GPS, are unavailable. The EP is calculated based on the vessel’s last known position, or fix, and factors in the course steered, the speed of the vessel, and the time elapsed since the last fix. It also considers external influences like wind, current, and tidal effects, which can cause the vessel to drift from its intended course.
In traditional navigation, the EP is often marked on a chart with a triangle symbol, distinguishing it from a fix marked with a circle.
