COMPASS

• Latitude: 37.3785
• Longitude: -76.3467
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

A marina compass, commonly used in the maritime industry to aid in navigation, is an essential instrument for any vessel. It provides directional information to ensure safe and accurate maritime travel. In the United States, a typical marina compass can be described and specified as follows:

Description:

1. Design: Sleek and robust, often featuring a gimbal suspension to ensure the compass remains steady despite the vessel's movement.
2. Material: Constructed mainly from durable, corrosion-resistant materials such as brass, stainless steel, or high-strength polymers to withstand harsh marine environments.
3. Dial: Marked with cardinal points (North, East, South, West) and often with degree graduations for precise navigation.
4. Lighting: Many models come with night-time illumination features such as LED lights, making them readable in low-light conditions.

Specifications:

1. Size: Typically ranging in diameter from 3 inches (76 mm) to 6 inches (152 mm) depending on the vessel's requirement.
2. Accuracy: Precision is key, with many marine compasses offering accuracy within +/- 1 degree.
3. Mounting: Can be flush-mounted, bracket-mounted, or binnacle-mounted, depending on the design and vessel setup.
4. Gimbal System: Some compasses include a gimbal system that allows the compass to remain level regardless of the boat's pitch or roll.
5. Damping: Liquid damping to stabilize the compass card, allowing for clear and steady readings even in choppy waters.
6. Operating Temperature: Most are built to operate within a temperature range of -30°C to +60°C (-22°F to +140°F).
7. Power: For compasses with illumination, power requirements typically range from 12V to 24V DC, matching most marine electrical systems.
8. Compliance: Must comply with maritime safety and performance standards set by bodies like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC).

Features:

1. Global Compatibility: Capable of providing accurate readings in different hemispheres.
2. Adjustable Deviation: Some models offer built-in compensation magnets to adjust for magnetic deviations caused by onboard electronics and metal structures.
3. Protective Cover: Often include a cover to protect the compass from dirt and sunlight when not in use.

Popular Models in the US:

1. Ritchie Navigation Explorer: Known for reliability and ease of use, suitable for small to mid-sized vessels.
2. Davis Instruments Hand Bearing Compass: Portable and often used for quick bearings.
3. Suunto Constellation Compass: A high-precision field compass often used by experienced navigators for critical surveying and planning.

Applications:

• Recreational Boating: For weekend sailors, sport fishing boats, and cruising yachts.
• Commercial Vessels: Essential for offshore fishing boats, passenger ferries, and cargo ships.
• Search and Rescue: Used by coast guards and emergency response vessels for accurate and reliable navigation.
• Military and Law Enforcement: Employed on patrol boats and other tactical vessels.

Maintenance:

1. Regular Calibration: To ensure continuing accuracy.
2. Cleaning: Keeping the glass clean and free from scratches.
3. Inspection of Liquid Levels: For models with liquid damping, periodic checks to ensure no leaks or evaporation.

Understanding these descriptions and specifications can help in selecting the right marina compass tailored to specific maritime needs, ensuring safety and precision during navigation.