How accurate is your compass?

Even if you have GPS and a chart plotter, all boats need a reliable magnetic compass. If the electronics fail or become unreliable the compass will help get you home, assuming that the compass is accurate and you have a paper chart. Check out the compass entries in the Mariner’s Guide on pp. 106-109, determine the alignment error (p. 14), check for deviation and make a deviation table (pp. 134-135). An accurate compass is an essential safety device.