compass

davej · 08 April 2020, 07:22

Anybody any idea for a compass for my RIB, the old one seems to be knackered. I have very limited space and probably need to put it on a home made L bracket above or on the low windscreen.
I do have a GPS so the compass isnt the sole means of navigation.

Using this slack time to sort the rib out and taken the last two days to service the engine and replace the steering cable and wheel box. Outstanding jobs are taking a long hard look at the tired axle and the compass. Oh when will we be back on the water!

Safe boating

Dave

GuyC · 08 April 2020, 08:45

A Silva 70UN is quite a low space requirement compass. Alternatively you could dispense with a fixed compass and buy a hand bearing one like a Plastimo Iris 50. They are around the same price.

The hand bearing one is less good for steering with but for navigation or vessel avoidance it is better.

paintman · 08 April 2020, 10:42

Replace what you've got with a new one of the same type?
Which is what I did when mine leaked the fluid.
In addition to the chartplotter & the fixed compass I also carry a Silva handheld. More of a 'just in case' & a hangover from pre GPS days although I have used it a number of times as a quick way of taking an accurate bearing.

Fenlander · 08 April 2020, 13:36

>>> Silva 70UN

Agree with GuyC and this is what I have for the SIB. Can be mounted at any angle and unclips in a moment for hand bearings. Floats too.

https://www.force4.co.uk/item/Garmin...SABEgIIbPD_BwE

davej · 08 April 2020, 16:58

Thank you so much guys for suggesting the obvious ie the hand bearing compass.

That will be just right.

Excellent suggestion.

Another job on the boat ticked off.

Cheers Dave J