06/05/2026
I was sailing with a family the other day and happened to mention that new boats are sold without a compass. Astounding, I know. They couldn't believe it either. Well then, how the heck to you get from A to B? Everything today is electronic, from your charts to your navigation systems. Hence...no ("need for a") compass. It's like kids growing up and not knowing how to tie their shoe laces or even what a shoe lace is. In many ways, the young generations can be envied for what is at their fingertips. But it is very sad the day the compass dies, along with the paper chart (which cannot be purchased any more. If you really must have one, you have to special order it.) I love to have my hands and eyes all over paper charts. I love to use and teach with my compass. I am hanging on.
Read the whole story here: https://www.sailbluehawaii.com/a-perfect-hawaii-sailing-charter/