Confused about bearings

[zodiaco]

Hi guys
I am trying to get the hang of using an attack disc, and am getting really confused. What is the difference between a true bearing and a relative bearing?
When I look through the scope at a target, is this my true bearing or relative bearing? Sometimes following this bearing seems to take me towards my target, and other times away from my target.
Please help
Thanks a lot

[Sailor Steve]

First off, WELCOME ABOARD!

Originally Posted by zodiaco

Hi guys
I am trying to get the hang of using an attack disc, and am getting really confused. What is the difference between a true bearing and a relative bearing?

True bearing is related to the compass and the map: 0 degrees is north, 90 is east, 180 is south and 270 is west. Relative is just that - relative to your ship. 0 is the direction you're heading (the bow of the ship); 90 is your starboard, or right; 180 is your stern, or behind you; and 270 is port, or left.

When I look through the scope at a target, is this my true bearing or relative bearing?

Relative. When a lookout calls out the bearing to a target, that's also relative. If he says "One-three-five", the target is behind and to the right.

Sometimes following this bearing seems to take me towards my target, and other times away from my target.

I'm not sure exactly what you mean. More details, please.

[zodiaco]

Thanks a lot for the help sailor steve. You've told me all I need to know.
makes sense now. All the best