[Rhodes22-list] Compass and GPS Selection

[Dan Johnson]

We are in the process of selecting a bulkhead mounted compass and handheld GPS for our 1984 recycled Rhodes that stan is to have ready for us by next Spring.  I asked him about a couple of particular compass models, and he gave me his input, and said to "ask the list", so I am asking.

Any recommendations about particular compasses.  The archives seem to reference a couple of good possibilities.  There is a Saturn, and a Plastimo Contest 101 (and a Mini-101).  Looks like the advantage of the Plastimo is the read from inside the cabin feature - I don't know we would use that feature, but it would look better than the back side of the Saturn coming thru the bulkhead.  Obviously, Plastimo costs more!  I don't really know what the difference in size is between the Contest and the Mini-Contest, and haven't seen either.  Have seen the Saturn - and it looks fine from the front, not so great from the back.  Only know what I've read on the internet ads in terms of reliability, etc.  I don't see us doing much night sailing or off-shore work - plan to be in the Chesapeake.

As for GPS, most of the archive stuff is fairly dated, and I know nothing except what it is supposed to do for me.  I don't want to have to purchase lots of extra software if I can avoid it.  Any recommendations in this area?

Thanks for the input.

Dan