In Search Of the Best Marine Compass in 2021 [TOP 5 REVIEWS]
One of the most vital instruments on your boat is your compass. When it comes to buying a new one the market can be a bit of a minefield.
There’s a wide range of models available and when you add the fact you can choose between different mounting systems and card types, it can all get a bit overwhelming.
To help you narrow it all down we have created this comprehensive marine compass buyer’s guide.
For our top 5 picks at a glance, view the table below. For in-depth reviews on each of our top-rated boat compass choices – keep on reading.
Best Boat Compass – Top Rated Picks
What is the best marine compass in 2021?
The best marine compass varies depending on the type of mount required. The HF-743 from Richie is a highly regarded flush mount compass. For bracket mount configurations, look no further than the Richie B-51, (the HDE Compact bracket model is ideal for shoe-string budgets, however). One of the best binnacle mounts available is the SP-5C Globemaster.
Marine Compass Reviews – Our Top 5 Picks
1. Best Flush Mount: Ritchie Hf-743 Helmsman
The Ritchie HF-743 Helmsman CombiDamp dial compass is our number one choice flush mount compass system for a number of reasons.
First off there is the dual reading card design. They call it the CombiDial, but the end result is just the same, no matter your orientation at the helm you will be able to view your readout due to the fusion of direct and flat card systems.
Measuring in at 3 3/4″ (94mm) the CombiDial card is a good size that allows for clear visibility.
However, the manufacturers have gone a step further to ensure you can still read your compass in low light conditions.
The Ritchie HF-743 has a built-in 12-volt green illumination display. This allows you to see exactly what your compass is reading at night.
Build quality is of the level we have come to expect from Ritchie.
The compass features a scientifically matched sapphire jewel and hardened steel pivot dial movement. Not only does this increase the reliability of your readings, but the unit is also designed to withstand tough nautical conditions.
The system also utilizes powerful Directive Force magnets for fast-heading lock-on.
The built-in compensators are adjustable of course, making it easy to counter the HF-743 for deviation.
Dimensions on the flush mount come in at 4″ (102mm) (so make sure you measure up on that first).
To top it all off, the Ritchie Hf-743 is backed by an extremely generous 5-year warranty. The manufacturers are clearly confident you will not need their assistance for a long time after purchase.
CombiDial offering direct and flat card features in the one system- Mid-range sized 3 3/4″ (94mm) CombiDial – clear readout visibility no matter your position at the helm
- Clarity of the readings is further increased via the Night lighting: 12V Green illumination.
- Long 5-year warranty
CombiDial offering direct and flat card features in the one system- The size may be too large for smaller boats with confined space.
The size may be too large for smaller boats with confined space.Bottom Line
Clear display, superior build quality and an effective CombiDial card system for increased clarity and versatility. What more could you want from your flush mount boat compass? Our number one choice for good reason.
2. Garmin GPSMAP 78sc Waterproof Marine GPS, Compass and Chartplotter
This entry to our top 5 round-up, is a sophisticated device from the ever-reliable Garmin. Incorporating a 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass, the unit is also a GPS and Chartplotter.
Designed specifically for marine use, this IPX7 waterproof compass will also float in water should it accidentally find itself overboard.
The GPSMAP 78sc has a ton of U.S. BlueChart g2 coastal charts preloaded upon purchase. These are highly detailed and include shorelines, depth contours, navaids, harbors, marinas, and more. If you are navigating the U.S. and/or the Bahamas, you will be set with the Chartplotter features of the Garmin.
Furthermore, should you want to add any maps this can be done with ease via a MicroSD card? Just download the new maps to the card and install them. (This even makes the Chartplotter useful for non-marine use).
And for those that would like the functionality, the GPSMAP 78sc also supports BirdsEye Satellite Imagery. You will need a subscription for this, however, once signed up you will be able to download satellite images and integrate them with your maps.
The all-important compass, (which is why we have included this unit in our top 5 marine compass round-up), shows your heading even when you’re standing still, (without the need to hold the device level or require a gimble to take the rocking motion of the vessel away from the reading)
The GPSMAP 78sc also has a barometric altimeter that is able to track changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude.
The feature list is very impressive in fact. Garmin has fitted wireless capabilities into the 78sc, allowing you to share your waypoints, tracks, and routes with other compatible devices.
What more could you want from your marine compass?
- Sturdy and floatable marine compass, GPS receiver, and Chartplotter
- Easy to use with clear, 2.6-inch color TFT display
- Preloaded BlueChart g2 U.S./Bahamas coastal charts, with the ability to add more via SDcard.
- Accurate, 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass
- Barometric altimeter for heading/altitude/weather
- Wireless connectivity for sharing waypoints, tracks, routes and geocaches
- More expensive than traditional marine compasses due to all the added functions
- The device is small, so bear that in mind if you would prefer a larger device for more permanent installation
- Some complaints about Garmin from those that have needed to reinstall maps
Bottom Line
Overall, the Garmin GPSMAP 78sc is a high-quality all-rounder. If you are looking for a multi-functional marine compass with chart plotting capabilities, it is difficult to beat. However, all of that is represented in the price. If you are only after a simple compass, you are best placed to look elsewhere.
3. Best Bracket Mount: Ritchie Navigation Explorer Compass, 2 3/4-inch Dial
The Ritchie B-51 Explorer bracket-mount compass is our top pick for this configuration because it offers a bucket load of great features.
Like the HF 743, the Navigation Explorer utilizes a scientifically matched sapphire jewel and hardened steel pivot dial movement.
Ritchie has also included those powerful Directive Force magnets we talked about above. Highly sensitive, the magnets are constructed so that a fast heading lock-on is possible.
The compass also features built-in compensators that are easily adjustable for deviation.
Ritchie has opted for a direct read dial on this model for optimum line of sight visibility. The measurements of this come in at 2 3/4″ (70mm), (which might be on the small side for some tastes and requirements).
However, for smaller vessel owners the Navigation Explorer has proven a big seller, with Ritchie stating it as being their most popular and versatile small boat compasses to date.
Again as with the HF 743, this bracket mounted option has a built-in 12v night light for increased illumination when the sun goes down.
On the subject of the bracket, this is well built and simple to fix to the surface of your choosing.
Finally, you have that competitive 5-year warranty cover for extra peace of mind.
- Superior build quality from Richie – high-performance Directive Force magnets inside
- Clear Direct-Read display
- Versatile Bracket mounted configuration
- 12v night lighting display
- 5-year warranty
- A minority of uses have stated that the night illumination is not bright enough, (it is also hard wire only which adds to the installation time).
Bottom Line
Richie build quality with the top features you can expect from this popular brand. If you’re after a bracket mounted boat marine compass at a competitive price, this is the one to buy.
4. Shoreline Illuminated Marine Compass
A simple, budget option now from Big Game International. This marine compass offers superior visibility for night-time navigation.
It fits into the 12v battery of your vessel to provide illumination. This is also designed to offer low power consumption, so you do not risk running your battery down.
The compass also has UV protection and performs well from a visibility perspective during the day. Furthermore, the over-sized compass heading allows for easier-to-read navigation.
For better, more accurate readings the device provides zero spins. The jeweled pivot assembly also means the unit is stable within the cockpit of your vessel.
- Low budget marine compass
- Connects to 12v vessel battery
- Illuminated for night-time navigation
- Offers UV protection
- Provides zero spin
- Features a jeweled pivot assembly
- The over-sized construction might put some users off
- Difficult to adjust if you need to recalibrate the device
Bottom Line
A simple, yet effective marine compass for those that need to navigate at night time. It also wins on having an affordable price point (one of the cheapest in our top 5).
The easy hook up to the 12v vessel battery is also a plus point. Overall, a great marine compass worthy of consideration.
5. Best Binnacle Mount: SP-5C Ritchie Navigation Globemaster Compass
The SP-5C Globemaster Compass is our top pick binnacle mount option because it is both extremely elegant with superior performance all in one package.
The compass features a large 5″ (127mm) flat-card dial for optimum visibility from within the pedestal where it is designed to be fixed.
The unit is compatible with the majority of pedestal designs however you are still advised to contact the manufacturer should you have doubts about your own particular configuration.
The compass has a 71/4″ (184mm) base and like all the Ritchie manufactured models we have reviewed in this top 5 round-up, comes complete with a 12V LED Green Night lighting display.
The unit is 100% repairable and also features a built-in compensation.
There is, of course, the obligatory Ritchie 5 year warranty, offering you that extra peace of mind after you have parted with your hard-earned money.
- As stated on the website – this is the most popular sailboat steering binnacle compass in the world.
- Large 5″ (127mm) Powerdamp Flat-Card Dial
- Binnacle mount with a 71/2″ (184mm) base – the compass is designed to be compatible with most known pedestals
- Built-in 12 v night light display.
- That 5 year Ritchie warranty
- The sleek design comes at a price – this is by far the most expensive compass in our top 5 review round up.
Bottom Line
If you’re after a Binnacle mounted marine compass, Ritchie have gone and done it again with their SP-5C Navigation Globemaster. This is a sleek addition to any yacht in need of a such a navigational device. Highly recommended.
Marine Compass Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the correct boat compass
As we mentioned above, choosing your marine navigation equipment can be difficult. After all, which is the best boat compass for your needs?
The size and type of compass and mount you need are the most important considerations.
You should also not fall into the trap of thinking that your GPS system is suitable for a replacement for a compass.
The problem with an over-reliance on GPS is the basic fact it cannot give you a real-time heading, taking into account current, wind, and boat speed. For that, you need a compass.
The size dial of the compass you go for is often dependent on the type of boat you have (and the mount that you intend to use).
Generally speaking, compass dials range between 2 and 6 inches.
Larger boats require larger dials, if only for the fact you will more likely travel longer distances. Who wants to stare at a tiny dial readout for hours at a time?
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How does the small boat compass work?
Stripping it all down to physics lesson 101 the marine compass works via the magnets contained inside; they naturally seek out Earth’s magnetic north.
Magnetic North
For a more detailed explanation, you need to understand that most marine compasses actually have two sets of magnets inside the unit.
The one set of magnets is “balanced” to seek out the magnetic north. (Believe it or not, this is variable. At the moment earth’s north polarization is close to Ellesmere Island, Canada.)
Nautical charts show the difference between the true north and magnetic north and this is called the variation.
Corrector Magnets
The other set of magnets you will find in a small boat compass are the corrector magnets.
These are designed to correct the deviation that occurs on the compass reading because of all the other electronic equipment most modern vessels have on board.
These corrector magnets are attached to brass rods that are installed in the base of the compass. These are adjustable and allow the user to compensate for the compass card to account for the interference.
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The Different Types of Boat Compass
Size of the marine compass
The size of the marine compass is a reference to the “apparent” diameter of the reading card.
The word apparent is used because we are talking about the diameter that has viewed under the magnifying lens effect of the compass cover dome.
As we mentioned earlier, sizes generally range between 2 and 6 inches. However, common sizes include; 2″, 3″, 3-3/8″, 3-3/4″, 4-1/2″, 5″, 5-1/2″.
The larger the compass the easier the numbers will be to read. A larger compass will also be more stable in rougher seas.
Card Types
We told you there were a few variables when it comes to buying the best marine compass. Once you have set on the right size, there also various card types to choose from.
Flat Card
Flat card compasses are the instrument of choice if your line of sight towards the compass is often from above. Vessel configurations such as the sailboat pedestal and center console powerboat installations fall into this category.
One of the biggest plus points of the flat card compass is the fact the numbers and graduation lines appear much larger than on other card types.
This optical effect is due to the card being further away from the compass dome cover, meaning the magnification of the readings is greater.
Front Reading Card
The most widely used boat compass style is the front reading card. In this configuration the card is dome-shaped. The readings are placed along the vertical edge of the card so that they are positioned closest to the helmsman.
Front reading cards are best suited to situations where the compass is mounted close to your line of sight. From a level perspective, a flat card would be difficult to read.
Size is a variable here too. Front-reading cards often come in at under 3 inches in size.
The negative aspect of the front reader is that the magnification is minimum, (the card is curved towards the dome cover). This makes them more difficult to read.
Dual Reading Card
The third option available is the dual-reading card. As the name suggests the card incorporates aspects of both the flat-reading and front-reading card design.
This makes the dual reader a good choice for those that have a viewing angle that is constantly changing. In other words, if you are up and down and out of your seat like a yo-yo as you sail, you might want to consider a dual reading card.
They are most commonly found on larger powerboats and will be positioned at eye level.
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Installing Your Marine Compass
Finally, there is the important issue of installing the compass. For this you have 4 main systems; the bracket mount, a flush mount, bulkhead mount or binnacle mount.
Let’s take a closer look at each.
The Bracket Mount
Bracket mounted marine compasses are easy to install and give you ample choice for positioning.
The compass bracket can be fixed into any available space, and the fact it doesn’t take up much room only increases the versatility. The compass is then simply screwed onto the mount.
Flush Mount
The most stable method of attaching your compass to the boat is the flush-mounted method.
However, this does involve cutting a clearance hole for the compass to sit inside the mounting surface.
The result is obviously aesthetically pleasing and is the preferred method for boat builders, (it could well be that your boat already has the clearance hole, meaning you old need find a replacement compass of the same dimensions).
The downside of the flush mount is the fact it takes longer to install.
This goes beyond the actual cutting of the surface. The compass needs to be level and aligned with the keel of the boat within a few degrees. If not, you will the unit will be installed with an in-built error that is difficult to account for.
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Bulk Head mount
When a boat compass has been installed via the bulkhead method, it basically means it is flush inside a vertical surface. The pros and cons of this mounting system are the same as the flush mount compass.
Binnacle mount
You will often find binnacle-mounted (sometimes called deck mounted) compasses on sailboats.
Here the compass is positioned within a cylinder which is then fixed to the top of the steering pedestal.
Surface mounting is another variation of this theme. Normally found on smaller boats, the base of the compass is fixed directly onto the surface of the console.
The compass itself can be removed from the base.
Whether binnacle style mounted or simply surface mounts, the configuration normally involves the compass base being attached to the surface of choice via screws.
One of the downsides is the lack of versatility and the fact the surface mounting system takes up more space when compared to other methods of attaching your compass to the boat.