Compass Bearing — What It Is and Why It Matters
A compass bearing is a directional heading measured in degrees from magnetic north (0° to 360°) that divers use for underwater navigation. Dive computers with built-in digital compasses display your current heading and allow you to lock a bearing to follow, making it easier to navigate to a dive site, along a reef wall, or back to your exit point.
Traditional analog compasses remain common on gauge consoles, but digital compass integration in dive computers has improved accuracy and added features like bearing memory and reciprocal heading calculation for return navigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are digital compasses in dive computers?
Most are accurate within 1 to 5 degrees when properly calibrated. Metal objects near the sensor — like a steel tank or wreck — can cause deviation. Calibrate your compass before each dive trip per your computer's instructions.
What is a reciprocal bearing?
A reciprocal bearing is the opposite direction of your outbound heading, calculated by adding or subtracting 180 degrees. If you swim out on a bearing of 90° (east), your reciprocal to return is 270° (west). Many dive computers calculate this automatically.
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