The Cache
Edited 26/08/2024
**A cacher’s note: At the time of placing this cache, the Herne Bay National Coastwatch Station was fully operational. The station has now closed and the coverage for this area has now moved to a new station in Ramsgate, opened in May 2024. The web page which most cachers will have used to answer the questions to find the final coordinates has been changed so as of 26/08/2024, there are totally new questions. They do however, still lead to the same final location as before, so if you have solved but not yet found the cache you can still do so with no changes. **
This geocache is made to be approachable to new puzzlers. This cache is placed near a former National Coast Watch station and you will need to answer some questions about this charity to complete the final coordinates and claim a find. There is nothing hidden at stage 1!
The questions
The answers to these questions will give you a number. Use these numbers in the scary looking equation section below to give you the final location. To find the answers to the questions I suggest asking a computer.
- When was the idea of establishing a National Coastwatch Institution station at Herne Bay in Kent first mooted? A=????
- The team at Herne Bay used a local shop selling what to raise funds for a new station by donations and subscriptions. How many letters does this type of shop have? B=?
- What year could you make a sandwich while on the telephone at the station? C=????
- How many feet is the station situated above sea level? D=??
- How many degrees is the field of view from the station E=???
The Maths
By this point, you should have a list of letters with numbers next to them. You now need to substitute and calculate the following coordinates which are for where the cache is hidden. Keep the format the same, but replace the letters exactly with numbers as they naturally fall.
N51 (D+2).(B÷3)(E÷30)(2009-C)
E001 (A-A)(2006-A).(B-3)(E÷36)(2005-C)
Now you have the final location, input these coordinates into your navigation device of choice (your phone will do the job with the right app) and follow the arrow to the final location where you will need to search as normal.
The Hide
To log a find, you will need to sign the logbook. You will need to be on the upper level, this will become clear once you are in the correct spot. No need for serious climbing though, this is a 1 star terrain rating. Look for something naturally out of place.
The Notes
I have created this cache because when I was new to cacheing I was baffled and put off for ages by puzzles until this popular format was explained clearly to me.
As with all of my geocaches, online logs without a verified signature on the paper logbook will always be removed. As will photos of the final location or cache. Please be stealthy when searching: pretend to tie your shoe, wait for people to pass, put your rucksack on the floor and pretend to sort through it or anything that is needed to distract passers by from what you are actually doing. Most importantly, have fun and happy geocaching