What is a "course over ground" (COG)?

"Course over ground" (COG) refers to the actual path that a vessel is following over the Earth's surface. It is an important navigational parameter that provides insights into the vessel's movement, taking into account all factors including wind and current effects. COG is derived from GPS and other navigational systems, and it is crucial for determining the vessel's true heading relative to the Earth's surface.

Understanding COG helps in effective navigation and can indicate discrepancies between the vessel's intended route and its current trajectory due to environmental influences or navigational errors. This parameter is essential for maintaining accurate navigation and for making real-time adjustments to the vessel's course to ensure it reaches its intended destination safely.