Which heading should a sailor prioritize when plotting a course?

When plotting a course, prioritizing true heading is critical for a sailor because it represents the actual direction towards which the vessel is moving relative to true north. True heading is based on geographical coordinates and is unaffected by local magnetic variations or the ship's specific magnetic influences. This allows for accurate navigation over long distances and when crossing various types of water where the magnetic declination can differ significantly.

Utilizing true heading ensures that the sailor is using a consistent reference when plotting courses on nautical charts, as these charts are designed based on true north. This practice not only enhances navigational precision but also aids in better situational awareness of the vessel’s position in relation to landmasses, hazards, and other navigational aids.

The other headings, while important in their respective contexts, are typically used to calculate or convert to true heading rather than serve as the primary reference for plotting courses. For example, compass heading relies on the magnetic compass and can fluctuate due to magnetic interference, while deviation heading accounts for inaccuracies in the compass itself. Variation heading considers the difference between true north and magnetic north, which is important for making adjustments but not as a primary reference for plotting. Understanding these concepts is essential for safe navigation and effective course plotting at sea.