Road Compass

The steering compass, navigation tool par excellence

Sometimes overlooked in favor of GPS, the steering compass is a reliable tool. Magnetic compass, electronic compass or bearing compass, this indispensable tool is available in several types. Equipped with a case housing a compass rose, the compass indicates north.

How does it work? The compass rose is fitted with magnets that react to the Earth's natural magnetic field. Thanks to these magnets, the compass rose moves and rotates until it indicates North, much like a compass. A navigational compass is graduated from 0° (North) to 359°.

The compass rose is immersed in a liquid and centered on a pivot for smoother rotation. The compass indicates North at all times. All you have to do is measure the angle between North and the direction you're aiming for, then plot this value on a map to find your bearings and follow your course! Please note that not all compasses work in both the northern and southern hemispheres. Depending on the strength of the magnetic zones, the compass is not balanced in the same way depending on the zones in which you are sailing.

The compass, an obligation for sailors

The compass is a mandatory tool on board. It must be present when sailing inshore from 2 to 6 miles from shelter, and when sailing offshore more than 6 miles from shelter. The choice and size of compass depends on the type of boat and the compass reading. Some models offer options such as built-in lighting, perfect for night sailing!

Which compass for sailing?

The choice of compass depends on your type of boat. The course compass, also known as a magnetic compass, is often a very simple compass that simply keeps you on course during navigation. Bearing compasses are mobile, and are aimed at the axis of the compass rose. Finally, electronic compasses can be fixed or mobile, and often offer additional functions such as date and time, as well as thermometer and anemometer functions. The display is digital.

Magnetic compasses can be of the bearing type. Various options are available, depending on the model. For example, Comptoir Nautique offers flush-mounted bulkhead compasses and bracket-mounted compasses.

The flush-mounted horizontal compass, for example, can be installed on the upper deck, while the flush-mounted vertical compass is best installed on the cabin bulkhead. Stirrup-mounted compasses are ideal for cabinless powerboats.

Let the compass of your choice be your guide!