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Marine compasses – Buying guide, Reviews, and Comparison
If you’re looking for the best marine hand bearing compass, but you lack time to conduct proper research when it comes to this subject, you probably need some help. Well, you’re in luck, since we’ve spent time browsing through many marine compass reviews in order to bring forward this comprehensive buying guide. Our findings show that the first product to take into consideration is the Ritchie S-53W. Its features include an internal green night illumination system to make sure you don’t have trouble using it at night, a set of built-in compensators to make it easier for you to adjust to any type of deviation and a hardened steel pivot to ensure the accuracy of movement. Should this model be currently unavailable, we suggest that you check out the Brunton F-70P instead, since it would make for a great second alternative.
5 Best Marine Compasses (Reviews) in 2021
In order to help you decide what item is the most suitable for your needs, we have written some reviews for a few of our top picks currently available for sale that also includes pros and cons for the products. The items analyzed have gathered the appreciation for their accuracy or ruggedness while maintaining an affordable price.
1. Ritchie Explorer Compass Dial With Surface Mount And 12V Night Lighting
A surface mount compass with an inside illumination system, the Explorer S-53W is designed to be useable in a variety of weather and lighting circumstances, thanks to its ingenious internal illumination system. The dial, which is 2 and 3/4 inches in diameter, is lighted with green light, making it easy to read the numbers even in complete darkness. The addition of 5-degree graduations improves the accuracy and convenience of use of the device while maintaining its compact size and contemporary external appearance.
The guiding system is one of the features that distinguishes this compass as a top choice. It has built-in compensators that allow you to simply adjust and correct deviation, as well as a sapphire jewel that has been meticulously matched. The pivot was made of hardened steel, which ensured that the dial moved smoothly and accurately.
Precision is one of the most highly praised aspects of this product, as seen by the positive feedback from other consumers. Despite the fact that it has a longer lifespan and reliability is a key item characteristic, the manufacturer provides a 5-year warranty, which ensures that if the compass malfunctions, it will be replaced at no cost.
Pros
A hardened steel pivot, one sapphire jewel that has been precisely matched, and a 5-degree dial graduation all work together to provide exceptional accuracy and easy performance. Using the compensators, you can simply correct for deviation, which improves the item’s precision.
The Explorer Compass is equipped with a dial that measures 2 and 334 inches in diameter and is easy to see and understand. The illumination system allows for precise readings even in low-light situations, making it ideal for usage before sunrise, when some fishermen like to head out to sea to get their catch of the day.
All of the aforementioned features, combined with the ergonomic design and surface mount, may lead you to believe that the product is prohibitively expensive; however, it is available at an affordable price while still providing excellent features that will enhance your overall experience with the product.
Anyone who is familiar with sailing and using a mechanical compass can use the Ritchie Explorer Compass to navigate. It was not only suitable for young navigators, but it also met the expectations of specialists due to its accuracy and design.
Cons
A number of customers have expressed concern about the dial, alleging that it is too small for their requirements. Even with the use of lights, it was difficult for a consumer to comprehend the indicators. Reading problems have also been observed, but only on an aluminum boat with the compass positioned in the center console, which houses all of the boat’s electronics, according to the researchers.
2. Brunton 70p In-dash Marine Compass
Another excellent compass available for purchase is the Brunton F-70P; this marine dash mount compass boasts the best Brunton design, providing its customers with as much information as possible while maintaining an inexpensive price. Using this product is simple and straightforward; it is also precise and durable. It can be installed directly on the dashboard simply by removing the screws from the frame and putting it into a particular fitting.
The bulkhead mount is a feature that improves disc reading performance. Consequently, even in low-light conditions or foggy weather, the 5-degree graduations are simpler to distinguish. A reciprocal bearing was utilized to ensure that the dial, which measures over 3 inches in diameter, provided precise readings.
It is dependable, provided that a watertight fit has been achieved when the product is installed in its final location. Occasionally, the manufacturer will provide a limited lifetime warranty, which is available from some dealers. This adaptable tool may be used in a car (albeit with less accuracy) or while camping as well — it is not restricted to the dashboard of a boat or other watercraft.
Pros
The bulkhead, which is mounted above the dial, serves as a lens, increasing the graduation size and allowing for faster readings in high-pressure environments. Paddlers, in particular, have praised this feature because the waves and wind have a stronger impact on them and can make it difficult to use a different sort of compass. Some purchasers have stated that they had no difficulty viewing the dial from a distance of 4-5 feet away.
Kayakers who have paddled in murky waters have described this gadget as a lifesaver on more than one occasion, according to the manufacturer. It is accurate and dependable, and it will function flawlessly even in the most adverse weather circumstances. Basic navigation abilities are all that are required in order to utilize the compass effectively and efficiently.
Many buyers have expressed their appreciation for the way the product appears. The compass, which is simple yet elegant and professional in appearance, has the appearance of an expensive product, despite the fact that it is extremely reasonably priced. Its dimensions are 4x3x3 inches, making it a little device that may easily be stowed away in a small kayak or boat with limited dashboard room.
Cons
The item has been installed in one of their kayaks, and some customers have reported issues with screws stripping during the installation process. They would like screws made of hardened or stainless steel, as they would be more durable in the long run.
They are too small, and they have not been placed above or beside the corresponding grades, but rather beneath them, as is customary in the United States. If these had been placed in a different location throughout the manufacturing process, the problem might have been readily resolved.
Ritchie is the manufacturer of yet another excellent marine compass that caught our eye. For nighttime use, the B-51 Explorer Compass is a bracket-mounted object that features a sapphire jewel as well as a hardened steel pivot and an internal green light illumination.
With a larger dial and easily read rules, it is a reasonably compact product that is designed to fit in small boats with limited room on their center console.
In order to connect to the 12 volt marine battery circuit, the nighttime illumination system must be built to be connectable. While it is possible to wire it directly, it is recommended to utilize a switch and one low-amperage fuse for security reasons. There are two options for mounting it: with screws (for greater stability) or with stick-on materials such as Velcro or other types of adhesive, which reduces stability but makes the installation process relatively simple.
This gadget has been praised for its affordability and tiny size, which is small enough to fit in a cup holder on the center console when used at sea. When used in a car, however, it may cause interference and reading inaccuracies due to the metal cabin.
Pros
The tiny size and ergonomic design of this device have been praised by the majority of consumers. The compass is small enough to fit on a small dash or even in a cup holder with ease. Almost any small vessel, including a kayak or a paddle boat, could benefit from having this item installed.
Because of the precise mechanism that it is equipped with, it is a fairly accurate nautical compass. The built-in compensators automatically compensate for the deviation, and the hardened steel pivot ensures smooth operation and clear indications of the position. The bigger dial makes it possible for those who have vision impairments to read the 5-degree graduations on the dial with more precision.
Because the Ritchie B-51 Explorer Compass maintains constant readings even in stormy seas, it is effective in harsh weather conditions such as storms or high waves. When the boat is pummeled by waves, the mount may be stable enough to keep the boat securely affixed to the mount.
Cons
It is possible that the illumination is too faint for accurate readings in low-light conditions. It is possible that older eyes will have difficulty reading it at night, especially if they are more than a few steps away from the item.
After purchasing the goods, some buyers have expressed dissatisfaction with the product’s dependability. Some customers have reported difficulties in installing the compass, while others have reported difficulties with the product’s functionality.
4. Seattle Sports SeaRover Deck Compass
For individuals who enjoy navigating on water, as well as hikers and campers who spend a lot of time in the great outdoors, Seattle Sports provides a fantastic compass at an even better price than usual. With its wide, easy-to-read dial and 5-degree graduations, the item is suited for everybody, including those with less than perfect vision.
In order to ensure ease of use and simplicity, the compass is equipped with quick-release buckles that may be used to secure it in place on any surface where the user may like to mount it. The product, which is suitable for small boats but can also be used for kayaks, mountain bikes, and handheld devices, can be placed almost anywhere thanks to the simple foundation on which it is mounted.
The half dome measures around 3 inches in diameter, and the bold white letters or numbers can be seen clearly from a distance of up to 5 feet away by someone with good vision. It is well-constructed and dependable.
Pros
Many customers have expressed appreciation for the accuracy of this compass when they have used it. Even the skeptics were taken aback by how accurate the readings were — when combined with navigational abilities and a map of the area in which they were operating, they were able to identify their location and determine where they needed to travel. People utilized it to make their way to the East, setting up camp in a position that would allow them to get more morning sunshine.
Because of its sturdy construction, it is resistant to extreme weather conditions. While it is not necessarily drop resistant, it is capable of withstanding some of the damage that may occur during normal use. The dial is protected from penetrating water by a water-resistant half dome positioned above it, and it is held securely in place by a two-point mounting system.
The process of installation is really simple. Installation on a kayak or paddle boat does not require the use of screws, since the two buckles included make it simple to attach. Because it may be carried in a backpack or a large pocket, transportation is made easier.
Cons
Damage incurred over time, faulty installation, or even manufacture defects will cause it to quickly lose fluid and become inoperable, rendering it useless. It is possible that it will lose accuracy as fluid slips out drop by drop before braking, and that it will eventually stop signaling anything with reasonable precision.
5. Sea Marine Compass LED Lights Illuminated Light Up
This is the most affordable product that we have come across when researching numerous alternatives to it. For use in a boat or car, the Jasmine Marine Compass is an LED-illuminated gadget that is suitable for use in all weather situations. It is equipped with an easily adjustable mounting bracket as well as dials that are independently balanced for greater precision.
The compass is sent with tools connected to correct any deviations that may occur due to the lack of built-in compensators in the device. The illumination is provided by a 12 Volt LED system that can be connected to existing circuitry on the boat or in the automobile, making this item suitable for usage at night as well.
It is constructed of ABS and has a glass dome that is designed to be sturdy and difficult to break.
Consider your options carefully before getting the compass, as it is relatively large and may take up more room than other goods. Aside from that, it is not advised for kayaking.
Pros
Because the dial is illuminated by LEDs, it is appropriate for use in low light conditions. Aside from connecting the compass’s connections to the cables in the boat, there is no more wiring required at this time. The LED illuminates in red, which is a departure from the green light used by the majority of compasses.
Those who have purchased the compass have expressed great appreciation for the low price that was offered. Despite the fact that it may not be as accurate as professional devices, it is extremely economical and may be used without difficulty on a small boat or by someone with only rudimentary navigational skills.
It is fairly dependable, and many buyers who have used it for marine trips have said that it has performed admirably. The accuracy and robustness of such a low-cost design astounded the majority of people.
Cons
Some customers have reported that it does not function correctly when installed in a car or truck, particularly if it is mounted in a location where there are numerous electronic gadgets present. It has been reported that some have had difficulties calibrating or working the compass, particularly in compact cars.
It is really large. If the item does not have a compact design, it may not be able to fit on a central console or inside the car into which you are attempting to install it. The manufacturer, on the other hand, informs prospective purchasers about the larger size of this product and urges them to carefully measure the available area before placing their order.
Buying guide
In the ocean, becoming lost is a regular accident that can happen because of dense fog, poor lighting or bad paperwork on the waterways you are going through. Having a GPS can help you solve problems, but if the power goes out, your GPS is rendered useless – the finest maritime compass is an essential equipment for any serious seafarer.
Finding one on the market that offers the most value for the money, on the other hand, can be challenging, which is why we’ve written a buying guide to provide you some insight into the considerations you should make when searching.
Some important details to take into consideration
Consider the following points before you begin looking for investment opportunities in the market: Budget is one of them, because there is a wide range of prices when it comes to maritime compasses – these range from really inexpensive items starting at approximately $30 all the way up to high-end, professional compasses that are sold for significantly more money than these.
Do not be concerned about the lower-priced products being inferior or unreliable – there are products that can compete with higher-priced options but lack certain design aspects or other less-essential characteristics. Consider the amount of money you are willing to spend in order to gain an understanding of what you should look for.
Another thing to keep in mind is the importance of brand recognition. There are several high-quality compass makers who used to just sell expensive gadgets, but in recent years they have broadened their product offerings and are now offering more affordable options as well.
As a result of these circumstances, the greatest approach to make a decision is provided by the purchasers themselves: the most popular options are almost always the finest choices in terms of value for money. However, other manufacturers should also be considered since they provide task-specific models that are either cost-effective or extremely efficient, as well as a variety of additional features (above the performance needed by common fishermen or sea-goers).
Depending on your budget and requirements, you can choose between a well-balanced product, such as those given by Ritchie, and a more cost-effective model that offers excellent performance but lesser reliability or a less ergonomic design.
Where do you want to fit the compass?
Every compass has a specific design that is meant to make setup and installation as simple as possible without the need for any additional things to be purchased. They differ based on the type of vessel for which they are designed and the features that are included in them.
Adding a compass to a small boat, kayak, or other man-powered craft is not an option due to space constraints. The optimum solution for this type of problem is bracket mounts, which are the most common type. The brackets are extremely adaptable, and they are better suited for a wide range of mounting conditions than other brackets on the market.
This style of mount, on the other hand, is not especially sturdy, and it may shake the compass and cause it to lose accuracy when used in choppy waters. Surface mount compasses are designed to be mounted on the dashboard or bulkhead, and they have a firm grip on these surfaces as long as they are horizontally oriented in the vehicle.
Some designs do not require a hole to be drilled in order to be installed; nonetheless, all are meant to be simple to install and are supplied with either stick-on materials or screws to assure a secure fit. This improves the stability of the compass, making it easier for users to obtain accurate readings. Dashboard compasses are mounted in specially designed niches integrated into the dashboard, allowing them to blend in with the other dials and equipment on the dashboard.
This style of setup keeps them well protected from knocks and scratches, but it may reduce their visibility in low light conditions (which is usually increased by an illumination system). Bulkhead mount compasses are larger in size than the objects previously described, and they are intended to be installed into the bulkhead of the vessel where they will be visible.
The majority of the time, they can be modified to accommodate the specific slant of that bulkhead. Sailing boats and other large vessels are advised for use with these. They offer the same advantages and disadvantages as flush mount compasses, but they normally necessitate a little more effort during the installation process.
It is also crucial to consider the size of the object. Although the dial of the compass will almost certainly be harder to read, the smaller the compass will make it easier to locate a location where it may be installed. This will be especially true in flat and front reading cards.
The greater the size of the gadget, the more difficult it will be to install it; yet, larger dials are much easier to read from a distance. Typically, these are used on boats where the helmsman sits approximately 4-5 feet away from the dash, which is where the compass is situated.
Visibility
If you are unable to properly read the signs on the compass, it is of no use. When choosing a product, it is important to consider the details such as where you will be reading it from and when you will be reading it. These considerations are also relevant to where the compass will be hung.
The dials are available in a variety of configurations, each of which is best suited for a specific application. When looking at flush mounted compasses, flat-card dials are the most typical type of dial to be discovered, and these should be examined from above. They are virtually comparable to the ones found in typical outdoor compasses or the best handheld marine compass on the market.
Due to the fact that this type of dial is hardly visible, looking at it from a horizontal angle will produce inaccurate results. In addition to direct-read dials with a hard glass dome above them, bracket mount compasses provide magnification effects that are most noticeable when seen from a horizontal position.
There are also Combi-dials available on the market, which combine features from both types of dials stated above. A sloped area displays the indicators from a horizontal plane, and then the sloped dial changes the angle, allowing it to be seen from an elevated position (from above).
A front reading card is also available for your convenience. This is one of the most widely used varieties of boat compass; the card is dome shaped and can be read when put in the line of sight of the sailor when on the open water. It cannot be viewed from above, and it has the smallest magnification available, making it a little more difficult to read if your eyesight is not in good condition. The front reading card is typically used on boats where the pilot is seated extremely close to the dash, allowing them to readily read the 3 inch dial on the front of the boat.
Do you need extra features?
Basic compasses are the most affordable option available from any manufacturer. These indicate magnetic north and can provide accurate navigational guidance if you have attended some navigational courses and are familiar with the equipment.
They are excellent backups for situations where the GPS system has failed, and they can occasionally provide greater precision than current electronic equipment. However, depending on your requirements, certain additional functions may be really beneficial.
Compasses with an integrated illumination system that is powered by the 12V battery in the boat or automobile are available on the market. It is possible that greater voltages will be necessary in some cases, however this is only true for very large products that are not typically found aboard your typical boat. They are easy to read and operate in low light circumstances and at night thanks to the lighting.
Because inclement weather can affect reading accuracy on boats that do not have a covered cabin, a light is another tool that can be used to improve accuracy in this situation. If you do not plan to go out on the lake at night, illumination is not a critical aspect to consider. If the boat does not have power, the compass will continue to function as normal, but the lights will not be operational.
Compasses are also commonly equipped with sunshields, which are another typical characteristic. They are employed to prevent glare that could render the dial inoperable due to inability to read the numbers on it. They have adjustable visors that can be adjusted to block direct sunlight from any angle, making it easier to read the indicators. This is a very crucial feature to have.
It is important to assess the reliability of a product before purchasing it. Others items may last a year, some may last five years, and some may last a lifetime — in this case, you should consult with other boat owners who have had experience with at least two distinct brands before making a decision.
Compasses have several additional elements, some of which are helpful while others are only decorative. Some features may be required solely for personal preferences while others may not be required at all.
Accuracy
When orienting yourself while at sea, it is not permissible to make any mistakes. The most accurate boat compass is, first and foremost, the greatest boat compass; nonetheless, additional qualities are increasingly considered vital. When selecting a product, accuracy continues to be the most crucial factor to consider.
It is important to understand whether your gadget is equipped with corrector magnets, which are used to correct any deviation that may occur when the compass is installed on the console and surrounded by electrical components.
When a magnetic field is created by one of the gadgets present on board that can generate one, the compensating magnets can be adjusted to provide the best possible result. The bearings play a crucial role in determining how smooth and accurate the operation is in practice. The majority of businesses have had their goods tested and provide a warranty, ensuring its customers that the gadget is accurate and has the potential to save lives.
A compass is a must-have equipment on any boat that does not have its own power source because all GPS gadgets require electricity to function. When you take your kayak out on the water, you can’t rely on your phone or other portable gadget because common electronics and water don’t mix well together. A highly accurate instrument is required in such circumstances; when the topic of accuracy at a low price was brought up, Ritchie was named as the best brand available.
Frequently asked questions about marine compasses
Q: What is a marine compass?
For comparison, the marine compass, which is dome-shaped and has a spinning dial, is designed to be used while sailing to provide information on the direction in which your boat is headed. It’s critical to pay attention to this minute difference because the direction shown by the compass does not always correspond to the direction in which you’re traveling. Knowing how to utilize such a gadget in situations where you are at sea and do not have a visual reference point in front of you might be a significant advantage in these situations.
Q: How can I use my marine compass?
Despite the developments in technology over the years, no other gadget can provide you with such precise information on your trajectory, thus it’s always advisable not to rely solely on a compass but to incorporate one into your sailing equipment. You can connect it to your GPS device and apply a series of simple computations to determine whether or not you are being impacted by currents, at which point you can modify your movement direction and speed accordingly. After you’ve calculated your path, use the compass’s directions to steer the heading in the direction you want it to go in order to navigate effectively.
Q: How to calibrate a marine compass?
The pre-installed settings from the production process are present in every navigation device, but they are susceptible to being altered by metallic materials, which are abundant on a motorboat and can cause malfunctions. In order to adjust for these changes, you must calibrate your compass yourself or get professional assistance if you believe you are unable to do so. There are a few different approaches you may take to doing this operation, one of which is to use your GPS to locate certain landmarks that show the locations of the true cardinal points and then alter your settings to match those locations. Don’t forget to make adjustments both with the engine running and without, since you may find that the situation changes slightly depending on which mode you are in.
Q: How to install a marine compass?
When it comes to maritime equipment, you should avoid purchasing a hand-held compass because it would be unable to function correctly in the present environment. As a result, you must select one that has a fixed mount, which may cause some difficulty during the installation process. The most important thing to understand is that there are many different sorts of systems to pick from, and before making a decision, you should carefully consider your options as well as the type of motorboat you own, as well as the primary characteristics that you are searching for in an electronic system. Don’t forget to check out our installation guide for more information.
Q: How does a marine compass work?
The compass is made up of a magnetic needle that is suspended in a layer of liquid that has been treated to limit the effects of external magnetic fields that could interfere with the needle and provide a confusing display. On a circular display, the needle floats around and represents magnetic north by indicating the magnetic north. However, while this is the basic description of a standard hand-held compass, maritime ones are no different because their purpose is virtually the same, if not possibly more crucial, given that finding the correct direction when at sea is more difficult than when standing on solid ground.
Setting up your marine compass
Every sailor should include this device into his gear pack, not only for safety reasons, although a compass can definitely save you when you’ve lost your track, but also for making navigation a lot easier and technically correct. What we can do is recommend that you do not use only one navigation device, but instead use a combination of gadgets and a compass to get the most accurate result.
When it comes to marine compasses, the installation process is probably the most difficult part, since reading the display is something almost anybody can do. Fortunately for you, we’ve analyzed the various options that you have and bring forward this guide to help you complete the task.
For a horizontal surface, one of the options you could go for is a flush mount. Despite not being the most popular alternative, it certainly offers a good viewing angle and is best used on the upper deck. Such a mount can also be used when talking about an inclined surface, so its versatility is a feature worth considering.
For those who prefer adaptability and want to be able to change the placement of the compass according to their will, the best option they have is a bracket system, which doesn’t only offer versatility but is also easy to store until next time and can adapt to various angles and surfaces.
When you’re the owner of a sailboat with a steering wheel, you might want to try a binnacle, since it will allow you to mount the gadget directly on the wheel thus making navigating a lot easier and letting you focus on multiple tasks at once.
If you find that you’re a fan of this type of mount, you can also give the mini version a chance, because of the additional features it has. For example, the item can be mounted with no cut hole and storage is a lot safer.
For those of you who aren’t keen sailors and don’t need a durable system, it might be a good idea to try a removable mount, for the few times when you go sailing. This is also effective if you rent a boat, although it should probably already have a compass on board. If it doesn’t, this system allows you to remove the fixing plate at the end of the day and store it safely until the next time you need it.
When sailing on a boat with next to no available space, you need a compact solution that’s just as effective as the ones mentioned before. Luckily for you, we’re here to recommend a mast mounting, a kit that will spare you a lot of trouble when dealing with small surfaces and close angles.
The last type of mount that we would like to mention works best for more complex navigation systems, in the form of multifunctional compasses, and is probably a good idea for more advanced sailors. Try a fixing bracket if you need more than just a regular mount for your gear. However, this is not a general rule.
The most important thing is to consider both the type of gadget you have, the available space and the features you’re looking for in order to get the best product for you.
Best marine compass apps
Garmin BlueChart Mobile Free
This free application, which is designed for iPhone/iPad users, has been met with enthusiasm by the maritime community. It is also very simple to use and accurate because it is based on BlueChart maritime charts designed by Garmin. Since the interface is intuitive and simple, it may be used without needing to read the instructions. It includes a circular menu, waypoints and localisation, as well as route management functions.
Because of the obvious indications on the BlueChart mobile app, it is simple to go through. Tides, currents, sun and moon phases, as well as the wind speed and direction of the gales, are all depicted on the chart. There are other other features included in this free program, such as the ability to sync it with multiple devices and the integration of the ActiveCaptain service. The device cannot function properly unless it is connected to a Garmin Quatix watch or an onboard network.
iNavX
Another application designed for iPhone/iPad using customers, the iNavX is another appreciated navigation app for open seas. It supports free U.S. NOAA Raster charts (and not only, since other maps can be purchased). The menu is relatively easy to use, and charts are grouped according to the regions; after selecting a map, the location is immediately displayed.
Considered one of the most versatile and inclusive apps, features of this program are GPX import/exports, weather forecasts that include tides, currents and other conditions, waypoint and management and can be used as a repeater for GPS or AIS. However, all the features included, the accuracy and reliability come with a price – the iNavX application can be purchased for about $50 from online stores.
MX Mariner
We turn to Android users with this application that is available online. The program allows the user to install raster charts from NOAA, LINZ (in New Zealand), UKHO (in UK, Ireland) or from the Brazil Navy (in Brazil only).
When used with an Internet connection, the charts offer detailed maps which include roads and satellite images of harbors and cities in the specified region. It displays current position and allows for route management and waypoint plotting.
GPX files can be imported and loaded unto it, enabling track management. In order to fully serve the customer in all light situations and even in bad weather, a variety of light settings are available to enhance its visibility and eliminate reading errors caused by the lack of light.
BoatBeacon
We continue the list by presenting another application that has both Android and iPhone/iPad variants. BoatBeacon is designed for use in high traffic areas such as harbors and is not recommended for far offshore use (since an Internet connection is required to use this product fully).
Boats with or without AIS that use BoatBeacon can be tracked by the program, and the user can see other ship photos and details, including heading and speed as long as the other ship has enabled sharing these things.
A collision avoidance system is integrated into the compass app, and it cannot be turned off, guaranteeing safety for the user when sailing crowded places. However, it has a big impact on the battery, draining it immediately.
SeaNav
Intended only for iPhone/iPad users, SeaNav is a new product conceived by PocketMariner that borrows characteristics from another appreciated app, BoatBeacon.
As is the case with other apps, this one allows downloading NOAA or UKHO charts which are loaded according to the region you are in. Chart tiles can be automatically downloaded during scrolling the main map. Objects such as bridges or ships can be explored by using this app, and harbors (or other places) can be searched by introducing their coordinates.
It has many other features, including the social ones such as live cameras from other ships or buoys. However, it is quite a basic app that is not known for its ease of use and versatility, but it offers great value for the money.
Compass Pro
Smartphones with Android system incorporate GPS and compass applications, but developers have created much better versions of the pre-installed ones. Compass PRO is a free application that integrates the best features of compasses with ease of use generated by the code and how it interacts with the operating system.
This program offers conventional directional signs, and in order to use it all you have to do is turn it on and keep the phone on a flat and smooth surface. Additionally, it features a lubber pointer, to enhance deciphering the directions.
Apart from these features, the numbers and letters are specified in bold format, and the lubber pointer coincides with the numerals in order to confirm that the heading is the right one. If any errors are generated, restarting the application and retracing the steps can solve the issues.
AR Compass-3D
This program was conceived for the more recently updated versions of Android, so old versions might not be able to run it. The AR Compass is an application that provides three-dimensional experience for the user, who can find information about the location and time of a destination.
To enhance communication, these details can be shared with other smartphone users who run the app. The compass is rotated automatically, but a manual mode can also be used with the same efficiency, providing better view perspective. There are many other features that equip the AR Compass, all meant to enhance ease of use and to provide pinpoint accuracy.
Marine compass accessories
After carefully considering all the characteristics that the ideal product needs to have in order to meet your requirements, after analyzing the installation process and other details, you can also consider accessories that are sold together or separately but are designed to make your life a little easier and help with certain aspects such as storage, transportation, mounting or others.
It’s essential to understand that not everything that is sold is also useful, and depending on the item that you have chosen you must pick out your accessories accordingly. Among the additions that you could consider are storage accessories such as canvas pouches or compass holders, mounting devices such as binnacles, or leveling blocks.
If you’re a person that doesn’t go sailing very often, you still need to buy a navigation device, but since you won’t be using it more than a few times a year, you need a safe method of storage that will ensure its longevity and protect the interior magnetic field. There are a few brands that commercialize such products in the form of canvas pouches and compass holders, and you can choose from a wide price range.
Some of them double as transportation devices, some of them don’t, all you need to do is figure out what you need and shop accordingly. Esthetic aspects are important to some of us, but they are certainly not crucial in this case.
When it comes to mounting devices, the options are so varied that it’s easy to find one that perfectly suits your context. When choosing a model, you should think about the available space on the ship where you’re going to place the compass, the angle of the surface and the viewing angle that you intend to obtain.
If you want to go into detail, if you have a little bit more knowledge on the subject, you can always go in-depth and choose in accordance with the type of boat you own and enhance a compass’ functions using your expertise.
Other types of accessories can be less common, for example, compensation cells are used for gadgets mounted on motorboats with a lot of metallic elements in their construction, which can affect the magnetic field as time goes by and result in misleading directions displayed by the compass. In order to correct this deviation, you can use this type of device or a similar one and make sure that the information you receive is accurate and helpful.
When you’re feeling playful, and you want to experiment with unusual items, you can search the market for various mixes of useful gear updated to work as one item. For example, the best marine binoculars with compass might not be a mandatory request when it comes to basic sailing gear, but they can surely enhance your experience if you try them.
After all, the most important thing is to choose the alternatives that best complement the type of compass you’ve chosen to add to your gear and make sure they work well together to deliver great results and improve your experiences.