Ritchie S-87 Voyager Compass – Surface Mount – Black

Description

When you cannot or do not want to cut a hole in your dash, the Ritchie S-87 Voyager offers a simple and elegant solution. This is a surface-mount compass, meaning it mounts directly on top of a flat surface with just a few small screws and a hole for the lighting wires. It features the classic 3.0-inch Voyager CombiDial in a low-profile black housing. The internals are the same proven technology found in other Ritchie compasses: a sapphire jewel bearing, a hardened steel pivot, and a reliable internal gimbal system.

The S-87 is built to be fully exposed to the elements, with a 100% weatherproof housing that protects it from rain, spray, and sun. It comes standard with 12V internal lighting for night use and has built-in compensators for accuracy. The surface-mount design makes installation incredibly easy on almost any boat. It is a perfect choice for smaller boats, as a secondary compass, or on any vessel where a flush-mount installation is just not practical.

Key Specifications of the Ritchie S-87 Voyager Marine Compass

• The surface-mount design allows for an incredibly easy installation on any flat surface without the need for large cutouts.
• It features a 3.0-inch direct-reading CombiDial, providing a clear and intuitive heading reference in a compact footprint.
• A proven sapphire jewel bearing and hardened steel pivot ensure the compass card moves smoothly and responds accurately to turns.
• The internal gimbal system keeps the card stable and readable when the boat is moving through choppy water.
• Standard 12V internal lighting illuminates the dial, ensuring you have a reliable heading source for navigating after dark.
• It includes built-in compensators, allowing you to perform the critical adjustments needed to ensure navigational accuracy.

Helm Use and Readability

The beauty of the S-87 is its simplicity. You mount it where you can see it best. The 3.0-inch dial is clean and easy to read. The direct-reading format means there is no confusion about your heading. At night, the 12V light provides a clear view of the numbers without being distracting. It is a straightforward, no-fuss tool that gives you the essential information you need.

Why Choose the Ritchie S-87 Voyager Marine Compass

You choose the S-87 Voyager marine compass when you need a reliable Ritchie compass but want the easiest possible installation. The surface-mount design is its key selling point. It is ideal for smaller aluminum boats, skiffs, or as an auxiliary compass on a larger vessel. You get the trusted Ritchie quality and reliability in a package that you can have mounted and ready to go in minutes, not hours.

Mounting and Compensation Considerations

Even though installation is simple, placement of this Ritchie marine compass still matters. It must be mounted on the boat’s centerline and away from magnetic fields. You will need to drill small holes for the mounting screws and a slightly larger one to pass the 12V lighting wires through. After it is mounted, you must perform the standard compensation procedure to adjust for local magnetic deviation.

Warranty and Support

This compass is covered by Ritchie’s Exclusive 5-Year Limited Warranty. If you have questions about the mounting footprint or wiring the light, Mulmarine.com’s team can help before you buy. Every compass is inspected before it ships. We recommend reviewing the full warranty details on the Mulmarine.com website.

Before Ordering the Ritchie S-87 Voyager Marine Compass

Before ordering, identify a flat surface on your helm that is on the centerline and has a clear view for the operator. Make sure you can drill through it for the wires and mounting screws. Use a handheld compass to check the area for magnetic interference. Confirm you have a 12V power source nearby to connect the light.