What is the primary advantage of having a marine compass onboard?

Having a marine compass onboard is essential because it serves a crucial role in navigation and tracking direction. The primary function of a compass is to indicate magnetic north, allowing boat operators to determine their heading relative to cardinal directions. This capability is vital for safely navigating waterways, especially in conditions where visual references may be limited, such as fog or at night.

A compass helps mariners orient themselves, plot courses, and make informed decisions about changing directions as needed to avoid hazards or reach their destinations. While options such as fishing, weather forecasts, and docking procedures are important aspects of boating, they are not the primary functions of a compass. A marine compass is primarily about navigation and ensuring that boat operators can maintain a safe and accurate course across the water.