Boating Equipment & Navigation ≫ Marine Navigation Instruments

Boat compasses for navigation

Guide: the 7 best boat compasses for navigation (June 2026)

Plastimo Iris 50 Compass

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.8/10

70UN Compass

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.5/10

Ritchie S-53 Explorer Compass, 2.75-inch Dial, Surface Mount, Black

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.4/10

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🏆 Best choice

Plastimo Iris 50 Bearing and Orientation Compasss Standard

Plastimo Iris 50 Compass

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.8 /10

+ Very easy to read and use while still looking at the target, even on a moving boat

+ Lightweight, floating plastic body that handles salt, drops, and general cockpit abuse well

+ Stable, accurate enough card that settles quickly, making real navigation work practical

Silva

70UN Compass

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.5 /10

S-53 Ritchie Navigation Explorer Compass 2 3/4-Inch Dial with Surface Mount, Black

Ritchie S-53 Explorer Compass, 2.75-inch Dial, Surface Mount, Black

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.4 /10

See full comparison →

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