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Published:25th October 202415th January 2025 Last Updated:15th January 2025
General Nautical Terminology

Compass

A navigational instrument that determines direction relative to the Earth’s magnetic poles. It typically consists of a magnetised needle aligning with the Earth’s magnetic field, indicating north, south, east, and west. Compasses are essential tools for navigation at sea and on land.

Terms with the same meaning:
Magnetic Compass
Related Content:
  • Adjustments for Deviation
    This handy mnemonic helps us remember which way to apply adjustments for bearings. Magnetic (compass) to True, True to Compass, Easterly Variation or Westerly Variation. 
  • Adjustments for Variation
    This handy mnemonic helps us remember which way to apply adjustments for bearings. Magnetic (compass) to True, True to Compass, Easterly Variation or Westerly Variation.
  • Calculating Variation
  • Don’t put all your eggs in one basket!
  • Free Resources

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