Bowditch's American Practical Navigator is a comprehensive guidebook for maritime navigation, first published in 1802 by Nathaniel Bowditch. It serves as an essential reference for sailors, navigation students, and maritime professionals, providing a wealth of information on navigation, piloting, and related topics. The book covers various subjects essential for navigation, such as: 1. **Celestial Navigation**: Techniques for using celestial bodies (like the sun and stars) to determine a ship'sposition at sea.