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Relative Bearing Calculator

Convert between relative and true bearings from your heading, for collision avoidance.

Enter values

Results update as you type.

Result

True bearing

135 °

True bearing
135 °
Relative bearing
45 °
Side
Starboard
Points off the bow
4
Clock position
2 o'clock

About the Relative Bearing Calculator

Convert between relative and true bearings from your heading, for collision avoidance.

Also known as: bearing from heading, relative to true bearing, target bearing calculator.

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter calculate, your heading.
  2. The result updates instantly as you type — press Calculate (or Enter) at any time.
  3. Review the breakdown shown under the main result.
  4. Use Copy result or Share to save the answer or send a link with your inputs.

Formula

true bearing = heading + relative bearing

Worked example

Using the values pre-filled in the calculator above:

  • Calculate: True bearing from relative
  • Your heading = 90 °
  • Relative bearing = 45 °

the calculator returns:

  • True bearing: 135 °
  • True bearing: 135 °
  • Relative bearing: 45 °
  • Side: Starboard