Re: GPS vs. Compass
 

If directed toward me on why not? Because you still have to rely on power and could have possible electronics failure.

To me the traditional compass is about the only thing left that is part of "historic navigation" on the boat, I like that.

BTW I just ordered a GPS/Plotter so I do believe in new tech I just thought they compliment each other nicely.

Re: GPS vs. Compass
 

The GPS is a wonderful piece of technology. Tells you exactly where you are at any given moment. Right up until it looses power.
A compass never needs batteries, never has an electronic breakdown, or looses a signal.
I think every boater should have a GPS but they also need to learn how to plot a course and read a chart the old fashioned way just in case.

You should have both devices. Never rely on just a piece of electronics.

Re: GPS vs. Compass
 

GPS does not give directional information unless it's moving (except for high-end units with multiple antennae) whereas the compass gives directional information even at rest.
I won't go out without a compass just as I won't go out without a chartbook. GPS is a tool, not a primary source of navigation.

Re: GPS vs. Compass
 

I tell my navigation students that it is always a good idea to have a compass since electronic stuff always seems to fail at one time or another. My suggestion to you is to at least keep a hand-held on board. That way you can have your GPS and compass too.

Re: GPS vs. Compass
 

I haven't hit an underwater object since I got a good GPS.

It's nice to know what my bearing is (compass) but I really enjoy knowing WHERE I am.

Heading is good.... but position is the shizz.

Re: GPS vs. Compass
 

Heading is good.... but position is the shizz.


That says it all

Re: GPS vs. Compass
 

I would think it would be a good idea to keep the compass on board for a back up.

Re: GPS vs. Compass
 

GPS's are great but you really need both. A GPS in certain places will go on the blink and have to be reinited if you are near a power station or other electrical obstructions. I have both and if you know where you started then 180 dgrees gets you back home....

Re: GPS vs. Compass
 

I agree that it is best to have both.

But even with many years on the lake pre-GPS... my dead reckoning skills have improved because the GPS is kind of like boating with a chart at all times. Makes me learn my waters (and hazards) better, not worse. You would think that the GPS would make my nav skills get rusty, but it has had the opposite effect.

Re: GPS vs. Compass
 

I agree w/ FR, I use my gps more like a chart, than using the "GOTO" feature.