A great number of boat fanatics still get a little befuddled about where to mount a boat compass. This results in the compass having inaccurate readings, which will potentially get them off course.
A boat compass is an absolute necessity when you’re cruising your boat, regardless of whether you have other gadgets that are intended to assist you with navigating your boat. In any case, you have to ensure that you’re using it accurately and that you have mounted it right.
Today, we’re going to guide you on all you need to know about your compass and where it should be mounted.
What Is a Boat Compass?
A boat compass is an instrument that helps assist navigation in the magnetic north. The entire purpose of a compass is to help sailors reach a certain destination as outlined by a map and to pinpoint their current location.
The capacity to control a boat using a compass is also helpful if the boat operator is disoriented or visibility is reduced.
Three Different Types of Boat Compasses
1. Fluxgate Compass
A fluxgate magnetometer works essentially like a compass. But, instead of a spinning needle, electromagnets are used to measure the earth’s magnetic fields.
2. GPS Compass
The GPS compass relies upon data acquired from communications satellites to indicate your exact area. This works by calculating both direction and speed when moving.
The satellite signals should be clear of obstacles such as heavy rain and high winds. If you’re sailing near the city, then it should be clear of trees, walls, and buildings. Also, your boat should always be moving at a speed of over 5 km/h.
3. Magnetic Compass
This is a simple apparatus that has a needle or pointer that points to the Magnetic North. This is the backbone of the simplest and safest navigating tool you can use while sailing as it works on its own.
If you’re thinking of getting one, the most ideal decision is the Ritchie HF-742 Helmsman Flush Mount Compass.
Where Should a Boat Compass Be Mounted?
Where Exactly Should I Mount My Compass?
On the boat, the compass should always be mounted right before the helmsman. Mounting the compass in that location gives you a quick reference on which direction you’re moving. In addition to that, it helps to keep the compass level while the ship is sailing.
To ensure that this will give you accurate readings, you have to mount it in the correct spot. Ensure that the compass is in your line of sight so that even if you’re behind the wheel, you’re still going to be able to see it.
What’s the Most Common Cause for a Compass to Be Faulty?
The main thing that you need to remember when mounting the compass is to be clear from iron equipment, electrical wiring, and magnets. These kinds of things will make the compass radiate on false reading, and potentially cause you to head further away from land.
All electrical devices such as mobile phones, radios, etc. emit and generate a magnetic field. Having your compass exposed to magnet components can cause the needle to deviate widely.
It should be additionally away from extreme cold and heat. Prolonged exposure to these temperatures can damage the liquid-filled capsule that is built inside the compass and this could cause the capsule to leak allowing air bubbles to form within it.
So, as long as you place your compass away from these components, it will guarantee your compass will always point north.
What Method Do I Use to Mount My Compass?
There are three types of ways of mounting your compass. They’re bracket mounting, overhead mounting, and flush mounting.
Bracket Mounting
The bracket mounting method means that installation for the compass is simple and can be installed in any area you like. This method is helpful whenever you’re installing it by yourself and looking for something with less of a hassle.
Overhead Mounting
Overhead mounting is a method in which the compass is placed and hung from the upper roof or ceiling to the point that it gets to an eye level. This is a good choice if you’re using a bigger boat with a steering hut.
Flush Mounting
To guarantee the compass’s accuracy, the flush-mounting method is the best to use. Placing this on the dashboard ensures the device will remain protected. Furthermore, it takes very minimal place while cruising with your boat.
To screw it on the dashboard, make sure you use screws and a bronze or stainless steel washer to keep it in place.
This is the most precise method you can use. However, once you have already mounted it, it’ll be hard to change and fix it afterward if something turns out wrong.
Tips on How to Pick the Perfect Spot for Your Compass
- Make sure to place the compass in the middle of your boat as much as possible. This will ensure that it always stays symmetrical and balanced.
- The lubber line of the compass has to be corresponding or aligned with the keel of the ship or boat.
- If you have a marine chart, sail towards a direction and go along with the direction in the map. Compare the compass’s direction to the one on the marine chart.
- Test your compass by traveling North. If the compass is moving while you’re not moving the steering wheel, then the spot isn’t right.
- To avoid difficulty in using the compass, ensure that it’s easy to access. It should be easy to see besides the helm of the boat. Ensuring that it won’t affect the capacity to look at other vessels and boats in front.
Can I Use a GPS Device Instead of a Compass?
GPS gadgets are extraordinarily reliable instruments, however, they’re not the best gadgets to operate while sailing and navigating in the ocean. One of the things that affect the GPS tool is extreme climate conditions.
In addition to that, radio interference and solar storms will also disrupt the GPS readings. While sailing, one might find himself outside of the grid, and that can lead to someone going to very hazardous places which will then cause danger.
GPS devices always need some sort of battery. If that power runs out, then a person would be likely stranded and all alone.
For all of these reasons, it’s smarter to rely upon a good old-fashioned compass that will need very simple and minimal maintenance and adjustment to set up.
Technology and electronics can always have errors, but the compass won’t ever fail you.
Final Thoughts
All boats need a compass, it’s imperative for proper navigation. The most important thing to remember about owning one is being able to read it properly. To do so, you have to mount it correctly to get the most accurate navigation.
Follow this guide and you’ll know exactly where to place it. Not only that, but this will ensure that your journey is safe!