It is the angle formed between the direction of the North and the extension of the longitudinal axis of the vessel. In accordance with the direction of the North, from which the measurement begins, the courses are divided in:

1. True Course

2. Magnetic Course

3. Compass Course

Nowadays, the courses are measured exclusively in degrees, from 000- 360 degrees, according to the holocyclic division of the compass rose, from the right side of the direction of the North.