COMPASS ROSE

• Latitude: 26.463
• Longitude: -81.9491
• Gulf of Mexico
• Marina in US

Location: US

A marina compass rose in the U.S. typically refers to a layout or design feature at marinas used for nautical navigation and orientation. Here’s a detailed description and specification of what you might expect from a marina compass rose in the United States:

Description

1. Design and Structure:

   • A compass rose is often a large, circular diagram embedded into the ground or mounted on a platform at a prominent location within the marina.
   • It features a central point marked with the cardinal directions (North, East, South, West), intercardinal directions (NE, SE, SW, NW), and sometimes additional subdivisions for further accuracy.
   • The design is usually aesthetic, often incorporating artistic elements like stylized arrows, maritime symbols (such as anchors, mermaids, or ship wheels), and sometimes local motifs relevant to the marina’s location.

2. Materials:

   • The materials used can vary but are typically weather-resistant for durability and longevity. Common materials include:
     • Inlaid stone or tile.
     • Metal (often bronze or stainless steel) for markers and letters.
     • Embedded compass patterns in concrete with colored pigments or sealants.

3. Size:

   • It can range from a small, modest feature a few feet in diameter to a large, prominent feature extending 10-20 feet in diameter, depending on the marina's size and aesthetic considerations.

Specification

1. Orientation:

   • Precisely aligned with geographic coordinates to ensure accuracy.
   • Often located at an open, flat area, easily accessible to boaters and visitors.

2. Elements:

   • Central Point: Clearly marked and often labeled 'N' for North.
   • Cardinal Directions: Clearly labeled N, E, S, W, often with larger, more elaborate text or symbols.
   • Intercardinal Directions: Labeled NE, SE, SW, NW, sometimes with smaller, less elaborate text.
   • Degree Markings: May include degree markings (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) and intermediate points for more precise navigation.

3. Installation:

   • Securely and accurately installed, often involving precise surveying to ensure exact orientation.
   • If embedded, the surface must be level and free from trip hazards or obstructions.

4. Maintenance:

   • Regular checks to ensure the markers remain clear and legible.
   • Periodic cleaning, especially if situated in areas prone to algae, salt spray, or dirt accumulation.
   • Protective coatings may be used on metal parts to prevent corrosion.

Purpose and Use

1. Navigational Aid:

   • Provides boaters with a quick reference for orientation relative to magnetic north and true north.
   • Helps in planning departure and arrival courses.

2. Educational Tool:

   • Used for educational purposes in teaching new boaters about navigation and compass use.
   • May be featured in tours or educational programs within the marina.

3. Aesthetic Feature:

   • Serves as a decorative element, often becoming a focal point or landmark within the marina.
   • Enhances the overall aesthetic appeal, contributing to the maritime theme.

4. Community and Tourism:

   • Sometimes used as a gathering spot for events, tours, and ceremonies.
   • Attracts tourists and enhances the visitor experience with an eye-catching, functional feature.

By combining functionality with aesthetic appeal, a marina compass rose in the U.S. serves as a valuable feature for both navigational purposes and enhancing the marina’s visual and educational appeal.