How do you convert a relative bearing to a true bearing?

• A. Subtract the vessel's heading.
• B. Add the vessel's heading (and adjust for magnetic variation if required).
• C. Multiply by two and add magnetic variation.
• D. Use the radar range scale.

Answer: (B)

To get a true bearing from a relative bearing, you align the reference frames by using the vessel’s heading. A relative bearing is measured from the bow, while a true bearing is measured from true north. Add the vessel’s heading to the relative bearing to obtain the bearing relative to true north. If you’re working with magnetic bearings and need a true bearing, apply the magnetic variation afterward: add variation if it’s East, or subtract it if it’s West. For example, heading 030° with a relative bearing of 045° gives a true bearing of 075°. If the variation is 5° East, adjust by adding it to get 080°.