🔍 Key Concepts

• Western Rivers special rules for equipment requirements • The primary purpose of a magnetic compass on a towing vessel • What types of instruments actually provide direction/heading information

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: Which of these options can directly tell the helmsman which direction the vessel is pointing, continuously, even if signals are lost? • Consider which options are specifically recognized in navigation regulations as a substitute for a standard magnetic compass on certain waters. • Eliminate the choices that are mainly for communication or position, not heading.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify which device provides a continuous heading reference, not just position or communication. • Check which instrument is commonly installed as the main steering reference on larger vessels and tugs. • Confirm in the regulations for Western Rivers towing vessels which recognized instrument may be used instead of a magnetic compass.