What is the role of a vessel's compass in E-NAV?

The role of a vessel's compass in Electronic Navigation (E-NAV) is fundamentally to provide crucial information about the vessel's heading. The compass acts as a primary navigational instrument that helps mariners determine the direction in which the vessel is pointed relative to geographic or magnetic north. This heading information is vital for effective navigation, as it allows for accurate course plotting, collision avoidance, and overall situational awareness while at sea.

Without a reliable heading, a vessel's navigation could easily lead to dangerous situations or miscalculations, especially in busy waterways or during poor visibility. The compass is essential for keeping the intended course and is often used in conjunction with other navigational aids and systems to ensure safe and efficient passage. Understanding the heading is particularly important when making course adjustments or executing navigation maneuvers, reinforcing the central role of the compass in marine navigation.