is the wind direction based on the true compass direction or magnetic?

True.*


So,, wind from the southwest = wind from 225* true
And if along the coast of Maine this would mean = wind from 242* magnetic
Do I have this right?

If the variation is 17 West where you're talking about then yes, you
do.

* Unless you're talking about true wind as measured by most on board
instrument packages, these tend to be magnetic and based solely on
magnetic heading, speed through the water and apparent wind speed and
direction ignoring set, drift and leeway.

-- Tom.