Binnacle

A stand or housing that supports and protects a vessel’s magnetic compass at the steering position.

A traditional ship’s binnacle may incorporate lighting and corrector magnets or soft-iron correctors used during compass adjustment. On a yacht it may form part of the pedestal carrying the wheel, engine controls or instruments.

The compass and its correction arrangements must be protected from new magnetic influences. Tools, speakers, wiring, electronic equipment and structural changes near the binnacle can alter deviation and should be considered when checking the compass.