Nautical Charts

The nautical charts are one of the most fundamental tools for recreational and professional mariners. A nautical chart is a graphic portrayal of the marine environment. In addition to providing the most basic elements, a chart is a working document used by the mariner both as a "road map" and worksheet and is essential for safe navigation. A chart shows the nature and form of the coast, the depths of the water and general character and configuration of the sea bottom, locations of dangers to navigation, the rise and fall of the tides, locations of man-made aids to navigation, and the characteristics of the Earth's magnetism.

Nautical charts are different from maps in that they specifically depict water areas, while maps concentrate on land area, roads, landmarks, etc. Unlike maps, the nautical charts conveys much information specifically designed to assist in safely navigating the area that the chart covers. In conjunction with supplemental navigational aids, it is used to lay out courses and navigate ships by the shortest and most economically safe route.