Magnetic Compasses Are More Than a Failsafe

October 5, 2022

Far from being a failsafe to onboard electronic navigation equipment, Ritchie Navigation SuperSport magnetic compasses still function if the power fails. Plus, they do something a GPS can’t: display a heading when stopped or moving at very slow speeds. Tested and proven in grueling offshore racing conditions, the Navigator 2000 and Helmsman 1002 are ideal for use on commercial and recreational boats.

Made in the USA, SuperSport compasses feature Ritchie’s PowerDamp technology to prevent oscillation and card spinning in heavy seas. Dials are set upon hardened steel gimbals with sapphire jewel bearings. DirectiveForce™ magnets provide a quick lock-on and a steady heading display.

SuperSport dials are high-visibility blue with bright white numbers and five-degree marks. The Navigator has a 4-1/2″ face; the Helmsman, 3-3/4″. Yellow 90° and white 45° lubber lines make staying on course easy. A built-in movable sun shield offers shade while integrated 12V green LED lighting provides readability in dim and dark conditions.

For over 160 years, Ritchie Navigation has guided generations of professional and military mariners and recreational boaters across virtually every navigable waterway across the globe. The company manufactures a wide range of dash-, bulkhead-, bracket-, binnacle- and surface-mounted magnetic compasses, and related navigation accessories.

Related Articles


ENVGO NV1: Back to the Future

By Andy Adams

Up to this point, I feel that most electric boats have not been very exciting. The motors have been mainly small portable models for dinghies. There are some high-horsepower motors available, but they look like regular outboard motors to be used on conventional boats. Until now, there hasn’t been an electric boat that really makes a statement. Enter the ENVGO NV1.

Read More


Destinations

Canada’s Superior: the North Shore

Story and photos by Jennifer M. Smith

We’d been north before on a short two-week cruise. At the time, we were unprepared for the isolation, the lack of cell phone coverage, and the spotty VHF reception. Since then we’ve repowered, installed Starlink, and retired from work. Now, with confidence in our engine and our connectivity and more time to sail, we were Superior-ready.


Read More