The application of compass greatly changed the situation for navigation in the Mediterranean. The gloomy and cloudy weather was no longer the obstacles to navigators. All-weather navigation became possible, so did the cross-sea navigation. In addition, sailing on the right course significantly shortened the voyage range and saved much time. In the last 25 years of the 13th century, a ship could go around the Mediterranean twice a year and even sail in winter. In 1300, Italian ships could be on the sea at any time of the year.From: 10 european navigation tools and methods