Section 121.402 - Compasses(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section every vessel must be fitted with a suitable magnetic compass designed for marine use, to be mounted at the primary operating station.(b) The following vessels need not be fitted with a compass:(1) A vessel on a rivers route;(2) A non-self-propelled vessel; and(3) A vessel operating on short restricted routes on lakes, bays, and sounds.(c) Except on a vessel limited to daytime operations, the compass must be illuminated.