Steer a Compass Course

Purpose-Value:

  • Practice and develop the skill of steering on a compass course for at least 100 yards.

Setting Up the Drill:

  • Equipment: compass
  • Individual compass course assignments are prepared for each operator.

Conducting the Drill:

  • Each operator starts from the trainer boat and proceeds on their assigned compass heading for at least 100 yards.

Teaching Tips:

  • Trainer checks accuracy of operators to steer their assigned compass headings by using a hand bearing compass.

Common Errors:

  • Chasing the compass rather than using small adjustments to stay on desired heading.

References:

  • Safety & Rescue Boat Handling On-Water Skill Standard 2.2 and its rubrics