Navigation and Seamanship

2.1.3. Standard and steering compasses

Sea going vessels of any size carry at least two magnetic compasses; these are the standard compass and the steering compass. According to the positions of compass in the ship – they are named standard compass and steering compass. The standard compass, whenever possible, is located on the ship’s centerline, and on a weather deck near the bridge, at a point where it will be least affected by unfavorable magnetic influences. The magnetic compass is fitted on the upper bridge (Monkey Island) exactly on the centre line of the ship. It is referred to as the standard compass because it is the primary means of direction indication on a ship. Heading read from this compass .The steering compass is also located on the centerline, just in front of the steering wheel, where it can be seen easily by the helmsman.