The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea requires that every boat classified as either a lifeboat or rescue boat must be equipped with a suitable compass. This requirement can be met by fitting a Marine Equipment Directive (MED) 96/98/EC approved compass.
The majority of Autonautic Instrumental compasses carry such approval and selected models are specifically aimed at the lifeboat and rescue boat market.
SOLAS marine can supply a wide range of lifeboat approved compasses to suit most helm configurations. Mounting arrangements include, binnacle, bracket, flush mount and bulkhead. All models are MED approved so selection from our full range is possible.
If console space is at a premium with have bracket mount compass models that can be mounted on the deckhead of an enclosed lifeboat, two models are available - the C8-0025 compass with an 85mm card and the C8-0027 with a 100mm card.
We can also supply custom compasses to be mounted on inclined consoles - an angle is achievable between 0 and 90 degrees. This option can be ideal for upgrading an existing boat to lifeboat duties.
For open lifeboat installations we have a selection of compasses specifically designed for this application. The CHB compass comprises of a 100mm flat card compass contained within an all weather ABS cover - this compass can be permanently mounted on any horizontal surface. There is a battery operated light mounted on the binnacle for night operation.
If there is not sufficient space to mount a compass or a permanently mounted compass is not desirable, we have several boxed compasses that have MED approval. The C4 range comprises of two boxed compasses, one with an 85mm card and the other with a 100mm card - the box sizes are 155 x 135 x 155mm and 190 x 190 x 130mm respectively. These compasses can be stowed in a secure location until required.
The bracket mount CHH compass with 100mm flat card is available for those looking to use a custom binnacle or replace an existing compass - this model is supplied on a gimballed bracket and comes with full MED approved, 12v/24v lighting is optional.
No matter whether building a purpose built GRP rescue boat, converting a RIB or upgrading an existing vessel to rescue boat status we can assist with supply of MED approved compass.
Due to the nature of rescue boat operation siting and mounting a compass can often be a challenging process. It is essential to ensure the compass is both readable and not vulnerable to damage. With our wide range of SOLAS approved compasses we can find an installation to best suit your requirements.
On occasions when a standard compass is not suitable, we can supply specials at an affordable price - the desired compass can usually be assembled from standard parts thus keeping the cost low. Specials produced in the past include compasses to suit inclined consoles and side mounted brackets.
A traditional style lifeboat compass contained within its own weather proof binnacle.
The compass is based on the CHH bracket mount unit. This class B compass is MED 96/98/EC approved.
This compass is ideal for open lifeboats where the compass is exposed to the elements. Illumination is provided by a separate clip on unit.
The C3 series is an ideal compass for dinghies, kayaks and rigid inflatables.
The compass has a 65mm conical card which is easily viewed at any angle. Illumination is optional.
As the compass is surface mounted it is easy it install on any horizontal surface. No aperture is required in the mounting surface.
The C8 is a versatile bracket mount compass that can be mounted in any position, including the deckhead.
The compass has a 65mm conical card which is easily viewed at any angle. Illumination is optional.
As the compass is surface mounted it is easy it install on any horizontal surface. No aperture is required in the mounting surface.
The CHH is a fully gimballed compass suitable for use on all types of lifeboat.
The compass is removable from its mounting plate allowing safe stowage until needed.
The gimballed mounting allows the bracket to be arranged at any angle and enables the compass to cope with heavy seas.