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GPS is a satellite positioning system that enables one to determine ones location on the planet in terms of latitude and longitude within about 15 feet (varies). If you understand the basics of lat/lon then the GPS is very simple as that is basically what it does. All other functions are driven by this simple piece of data.
Given ones position, the bearing and distance to another point (waypoint or destination) can be automatically determined and displayed.
Given an electronic chart, ones position can be overlayed on it to see exactly where one is on the chart, plus bearing. Speed comes from the difference in position within an increment of elapsed time .
While a GPS Chartplotter may include depth soundings from the chart, a GPS does not determine actual depth of the water in real time. For that one needs a sonar device such as a fishfinder/depth sounder. Garmin makes a combination unit that includes both. I have the 178C and like it.
Learn basic navigation and a GPS is very easy with the manuals.
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