To have or not to have!

Hightower · 28 March 2004, 23:03

Removed my Compass at the weekend and it kind of leaked.

My question: As I've limited space on my console and I intend to use the space for my plotter, do you think it wise just to have a hand bearing compass or still to fit a permament compass but in a more obscure position ie: between legs at base of console?

Also any preferable makes, I've been looking at Pastimo and Silva and need a compass that'll mount at 45deg. (see photo)

Andy

Neal · 29 March 2004, 16:53

Andy,
Just my opinion but i would have a permanent compass and work on a way of getting it up as high as possible . I was on a rib last week with the compass at low level and it was very hard to see at speed and at night. If you move out of home water and need to use it you need to see it without hard work.

Neal

Richard B · 29 March 2004, 17:18

I agree with Neal. GPS are particualrly difficult to use for following a course at low speed, as they plot a track based on where you gave been. Your compass shows you where your boat is pointing. These can be very different, and at low speed (rough water or poor visibility) GPS nav can give you a very waggly course (the long way home!)

Rupert Bear · 29 March 2004, 18:22

The gps heading works by working out which way you are travelling, hence the lag between the compass pointing to where the boat is or even different directions if there is some current etc.
Having said that I have never found a compass necessary and steer a straight course even in poor viz with the plotter. I only carry a compass in the spares box for emergencies. I did worry about it when building up the boat but now am completely happy with not fitting a permanent compass.
You pays your money and takes your pick.

Hightower · 29 March 2004, 20:25

Thanks guys, I'll have to stick with the Dash Idea as haven't got the space for all the equipment. I want to have a fixed compass and I've the space to fit one, it's just that it's not exactly where it should be (eyeline) and even if I mounted up top it'll probably be affected by the electrics too much.

I guess I'm finding that mounting this equipment is all about compomise.