Steering compass/pedestal

[coopec]

Hopefully I will have the steering finished on my 43ft center cockpit very shortly.

I plan to install a conduit for future navigation cabling and I plan to have a grab rail secured to the cockpit floor and the pedestal



I want to buy a compass now and install it as I don't come back and do it later. The one I have selected is a Riviera Binnacle compass but mainly because the diameter almost exactly fits the top of the pedestal. In addition I will invest in a hood. (The yacht will have an autopilot)

I would appreciate advice as to whether I am making a good choice.



Description

Riviera BW4 Binnacle Mounted Compass
White Star series 130mm (5")

High quality, Italian made compass. Suitable for sail and power boats.

Features

Colour: White
Gimbal Type: Internally gimbaled
Lighting: 12V
Reading: Rear - red lubber line
Card Graduation: 5° Black card
Anti-glare screen
Built-in Compensation

Dimensions

Overall Base Dia: 181mm
Height: 176mm
Apparent Card Dia: 130 mm (5")

 

[Yngmar]

Personally I've concluded that the binnacle is not the best place for the steering compass these days, as there's lots of metal around and usually a whole bunch of electronics too (which are more useful to have there), most of which have compass safe distances far greater than what is possible with a binnacle mounted compass. Depending on the boat, there may be a nearby location, such as the bulkhead next to the companionway or under the sprayhood that is less prone to interference yet still in reasonable viewing distance of the helmsman. Also more in line with the little use the thing is likely to see these days.

As for your choice of compass, yep, it's the usual ripoff priced marine item, which yields you a printed card with some magnets glued on inside a snowglobe. Make sure it has a sun cover to protect your investment.

Oh, and before you buy, have a look around local chandlers used bits shelves. There usually are a bunch sitting around collecting dust. Better to recycle!

 

[coopec]

Thanks for taking the time to comment: I am sure that is all excellent advice too.

I wondered about the use of a compass these days now that everyone uses an autopilot and GPS type navigation equipment. (I did wonder whether it would just be an ornament) Maybe I need a bulkhead one by the companionway as you say.

I'll certainly be going over your post very carefully and I'll try to find out what quality yachts (like HR) come equipped with from new.

Thanks for your help

PS I'll checkout the secondhand stuff too