Bracket Mount & In Dash Boat Compasses

There are several types of boat compasses: Magnetic, Gyro, and GPS. Each type is suitable for different watercraft and navigation needs. While other navigation methods exist, the following are the most commonly used boat compasses:

Magnetic Boat Compasses:

The magnetic boat compass is the most widely used. It features a magnetized needle that aligns with the Earth's magnetic field, pointing to "magnetic north." To improve accuracy, take bearings of three different objects and average the results.

Global Positioning Boat Compasses:

Some compasses are calibrated to specific global zones, such as Asia Pacific. Using such a compass in another region may lead to incorrect readings. We offer top global boat compasses from Ritchie, Autonatic, and Sam Allen, ensuring your vessel is equipped for global travel.

Adjusting Your Boat Compass:

To align the compass with the boat's fore and aft lines, careful adjustment is necessary. Align the lubber’s line with the bow of the boat, and measure the distance between the compass and the fore and aft lines. Mark the same distance at the bow and ensure the lubber’s line is parallel to this mark. Avoid placing the compass near large metal objects or loudspeakers, and ensure it's balanced to compensate for the Earth’s magnetic field. All Ritchie boat compasses are balanced for Zone 1 (northern hemisphere).

Multipurpose chart displays usually do not interfere with compasses, but check for a "Compass Safe Distance" to keep the compass clear. On steel boats, magnetization can affect compass accuracy, and deviations may vary with different headings. GPS can sometimes show a delay in 'course over ground' due to currents, making a reliable boat compass a valuable backup for accurate navigation.

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Order Your Boat Compasses Online Today

Choose from the best boat compasses Australia has to offer to stay in complete control of your boat. Shop online for a wide range of boat compasses and find the perfect addition for your recreational vessel today.