Compass Compensation and Adjustment Services
Lauderdale Compass provides comprehensive compass compensation and adjustment services for a diverse range of maritime vessels, from recreational pleasure craft and sport fishing boats to commercial vessels and United States Coast Guard cutters. Our certified technicians utilize advanced instrumentation and proven methodologies to ensure precise compass calibration across all vessel types.
Upon completion of our professional compass compensation services, clients receive a certified deviation card documenting any residual compass deviation, ensuring full compliance with applicable maritime regulations and industry standards.
Regulatory Compliance Requirements
Compass adjustments are not merely recommended, they are mandatory under federal maritime law and essential for insurance compliance. US Code of Federal Regulations, 33 CFR 164.35 requires that residual deviation of the magnetic compass must be less than 7 degrees, and this must be verified by a "recognized calibration authority, and an accurate deviation table issued, within the previous 12-month period."
Key Regulatory Requirements:
- Commercial Charter Operations: Compass adjustments are mandatory for insurance compliance and regulatory adherence
- Vessel Size-Based Requirements: Depending on vessel gross tonnage and classification, compass adjustments are required annually or biennially
- Navigation Area Requirements: Port Pilots in certain waterways and shipping lanes require current deviation cards for vessel clearance
- International Standards: SOLAS V/19.2.1 states that all ships irrespective of size shall have "a properly adjusted standard magnetic compass"
We recommend consulting with your insurance provider and reviewing applicable federal regulations to determine your specific compliance timeline and requirements.
Professional Repair Services
Since 1982, Lauderdale Compass has established itself as South Florida's premier provider of marine compass repair, sales, and maintenance services. Operating from the heart of the world's marine boating capital, we bring nearly four decades of specialized expertise to every project.
Contact Information: (800) 951-5123
Our experienced compass adjuster has serviced hundreds if not thousands of compasses and marine navigation instruments, ensuring reliable performance and regulatory compliance for vessels of all classifications.