“When meeting the challenges the sea offers,

some sailors are lucky, some are prepared …….

I prefer to be prepared and lucky”

Capt. Steve Runals

 What We’re About
• The range of electronic devices, marine related software and
internet resources available to recreational boaters today is truly
amazing; from multifunctional display (MFD) units to tablet
computers, Smart Phones and internet available information.
• The challenge is how best to take advantage of the capabilities
these devices/resources provide for safe and effective
navigation yet be aware of their limitations and how to minimize
them.
• It’s not a case of “paper” or “electronic” but rather how to
integrate the capabilities electronic charting / tools / resources
bring to the tasks required in navigation.
• While addressing some specific capacities and techniques, this
overview makes no attempt to identify all the systems, software
and internet resources available on the market today.
2
 Navigation Today
Autohelm
Radar
Wind/depth/Spd
instruments

SSB

VHF Radio

MFD w/AIS receiver &

Garmin NAUTIX IN-VIEW Handheld GPS

• At home MFD with integrated radar, AIS

• Onboard and maybe SIRIUS WX
3
 Raymarine’s ClearCruise AR
Raymarine's new ClearCruise Augmented Reality Navigation Technology
system “ClearCruise AR” accurately displays nearby navigation
markers, automatic identification of
It’s a combination system
newer(AIS)
andtraffic,
“older”objects, and
waypoints — and your distance from them — in sync with real-world
technologies and capabilities.
imagery for instant recognition.
- Options to utilize and integrate
A camera is connected to a what
- Determine compatible Raymarine
you need / wantAxiom
to usemultifunction
to display ahow
display (MFD)- Determine picture
andoverlaid
where with navigational information,
info displayed
improving navigation awareness.

Camera view
 References
• Introduction to Electronic Chart Navigation; by David Burch, StarPath.
• The Weekend Navigator, 2d Ed, Simple Boat Navigation with GPS
and Electronics; Bob Sweet; International Marine / McGraw –Hill,
2012.

MD2019
5
 What Is Electronic Navigation (e-Nav)
• Navigation answers two basic questions: “Where am I?” and
“How do I safely get from there to where I intend to go?”
(There is a difference between “getting there safely” and
“safely getting there”.)

• In addition to charts, navigators traditionally have used:

compasses, plotting instruments, depth and speed
instruments, a watch or clock, binoculars, log books,
barometers, cruising guides/pilot charts combined with
visual observations and manual plotting techniques to
plan their routes and track their progress to answer these
questions.

• Today’s navigators combine these “traditional” instruments

and plotting techniques with GPS enabled devices and an
ever increasing number of electronic aids/tools (AIS, radar,
autopilots, Sirius WX, internet resources, etc.) to answer
these age-old questions.
6
7
 e-Nav
• GPS enabled devices can help answer the first question –
“Where am I?”; used properly, they help answer the second;
“How do I safely get there?”

• Electronic Navigation: The use of electronic tools (chart

plotters, computers, tablets, Smart Phones, AIS, autopilots,
radar, Sirus Wx, etc.) to aid in answering these two fundamental
questions.

• e-Nav: A colloquial term for displaying charts, and optionally

navigating using a personal computer, tablet, Smart Phone and
other electronic tools.

The science of navigation can be taught but the art of

navigation can only be developed with experience.

8
 Defining Some Terms
• EAC: Electronically Aided Collisions
• Electronic Charting System (ECS): Any system of hardware devices,
navigation software, chart data files, and additional marine
electronicsthat incorporates GPS signals to display a vessels position
on a digital chart along with info like COG, SOG . No required
standardization in functionality and chart symbols.
• Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS): An
electronic charting system satisfying international standards for
commercial navigation. An integrated system of hardware, software,
sensors (such as radar, depth and automatic identification systems
(AIS), communications; each part of which must meet rigorous and
specific international standards. It may also display additional
navigation-related information, such as sailing directions. Not all
recreational ECS use official ECDIS software or charts. (IHO S- 52,
S-57)

10
 Defining Some Terms
• Electronic Chart: The encoding of a navigation chart as a digital file
to be viewed on an electronic display. Two file types:

• Raster Chart: A static, scanned image of a paper chart.

• Vector Chart: A dynamic data file of chart features – a
collection of geospatially referenced point, lines, polygons,
symbols and areas assembled as needed for display.

• NMEA 2000: A revised data communication protocol replacing

NMEA 0183 increasing the number of devices able to be connected
– “plug-an-play” connections.

• Route: A grouping of waypoints connected in sequence, typically

marking a vessel’s intended course.

13
 Defining Some Terms

• Route Planning: The pre-determination of course, speed and

waypoints for waters to be navigated.

• User Generated Content (UGC): “Crowd-sourced” information to

support navigation: obstructions, anchorages, marinas, etc..
ActiveCaptain and Waterway Guide are popular UGC programs
that can be accessed offline and increasingly integrated as part of
many ECS. Navionics has a crowd-sourcing online function.

• Waypoint: A set of latitude and longitude coordinates that identify a

location used for navigation. Individual waypoints can be connected
to make a route.

14
“There are far more unregulated navigation systems in use than type-approved
electronic chart display and information systems”(ECDIS). The Coast Guard
Proceedings, Journal of Safety & Security at Sea, Summer 2015
15
 The State of the Art

Will soon be mandatory on all commercial vessels >500GT

16
 ECDIS Competencies Required in Table A-II/1
of STCW
• Operate ECDIS equipment. • Recognize and analyze nautical
alarms during route planning and
• Use the navigational functions of ECDIS. route monitoring as well as
• Select and assess all relevant sensor alarms.
information and take proper action. • Assess the impact of the
performance limits of sensors on
• Acquire and develop a knowledge and the safe use of ECDIS.
understanding of the basic principles • Understand the importance of a
governing the safe operation of ECDIS. back-up system and its limited
performance.
• Understand ECDIS data and their
• Assess errors, inaccuracies and
presentation. ambiguities caused by improper
• Understand system-related limitations data management.
and potential dangers. • Awareness of errors in displayed
data, errors of interpretation.
• Generate and maintain displays.
• Risk of over-reliance on ECDIS
• Operate all basic navigational functions and be able to take proper
and all specific functions for route action. In addition, knowledge of
planning and route monitoring. the principal types of electronic
chart.
• Select and use the navigational data and • Knowledge legal aspects in the
display the data in the appropriate operational use and
manner. management of ECDIS.
 ECDIS Competencies Required in Table A-II/1
of STCW
 Operate ECDIS equipment. • Recognize and analyze nautical
- “Treat GPS and e-Nav alarms
devices and during
data with route planning and
deep
 Use the navigational functions of ECDIS. route monitoring as well as
appreciation
 Select and assess all relevant but constant skepticism”
sensor alarms.
information and take proper action.  Assess the impact of the
- Spend performance limits of sensors on
 Acquire and developtime learningand
a knowledge how to use your system
the safe use of ECDIS.
understandingand itsbasic
of the capabilities
principles  Understand the importance of a
governing the safe operation of ECDIS. back-up system and its limited
 Understand- Know
ECDIShow to use
data and theirand use paperperformance.
charts
presentation. • Assess errors, inaccuracies and
ambiguities caused by improper
 Understand- Keep an updated
system-related log
limitations data management.
and potential dangers.  Awareness of errors in displayed
 Generate and maintain displays. data, errors of interpretation.
So……………
 Operate all basic navigational functions
 Risk of over-reliance on ECDIS
and be able to take proper
and all specific functions for route action. In addition, knowledge of
planning and route monitoring. the principal types of electronic
chart.
 Select and use the navigational data and
 Knowledge legal aspects in the
display the data in the appropriate operational use and
manner. management of ECDIS.
20
 Some Capabilities
• Electronic devices integrating GPS capabilities provide today’s
mariners with a wide range of information, capabilities and choices.
Capabilities vary with each device and software package:
– Vessel current location, direction and speed over the ground
superimposed on a wide range of navigation charts
– 3D images of the bottom and satellite images of surrounding areas
– Position and display waypoints, routes, marks and annotations
– Distance to and ETA to predetermined waypoints and other areas of
interest Stereo
– User generated content (UGC), providing information on navigation,
obstacles, marines, anchorages, etc.
– An integrated “picture” of tide and current
NavTex iPad
– Display XTE, VMG, TTW, etc.
– Integrated radar, AIS, satellite wx, video
VHF VHF
– Boat systems status
– Alarms for dragging at anchors or routes/positions
SSB over shallow
water
– Electronic logs, celestial computers, star charts ……………
– A capability for displaying multiple sources of charting
information/formats
22
 Some Cautions
“Although GPS is reputedly accurate to within 10 meters, errors of as
much as 100 meters have been known. For that reason whenever a
navigator finds himself within 3 nm of land or a navigation hazard
they must use conventional methods of navigation. …. Despite the
accuracy of charts and GPS, the number of groundings has not
declined. This is because of the over reliance on electrical
systems. …”.
Legend data from an Imray-Lolaire chart

“Do not rely on this product as your primary source of navigation”.

The operator is responsible for using official government charts and
prudent methods for safe navigation. ……..
Autorouting and Easy Routing are for general planning only. They do
NOT replace safe navigation practices and should not be used as the
sole reference source.”
Intro warning page on a B&G Multifunctional Chartplotter
24
 Some Limitations
• Because e-Nav devices depend on access to GPS satellites and user
interface, they are subject to:
– Loss of power
– Equipment failure
– Interference from external sources – manmade and natural
– Subject to damage from the harsh marine environment to include
lightening
– Incorrect or out of date datum and chart data
– Small areas in great detail, large areas with very limited detail
– Operator error
While some or all of these factors are not
uncommon in many other areas and even to
traditional navigation, an over reliance on ECS
devices has led to so many accidents the USCG
has set up a category for these type accidents,
giving it the acronym “EAC” – Electronically Aided
Collisions” Don’t become a victim of EAC 25
A good anchorage at high tide
… not so much at low

Having a chart plotter is good, understanding the

information that it provides...priceless.
Some Limitations: Operator Error

• The primary means

to enter data on
many systems is a
“curser key” that
moves the curser and
allows you to enter
numbers and letters.

• Very easy to make

an error reading or
entering coordinates.

• Have someone check

your work.

Don’t become a victim of EAC 27

Some Limitations – A Perspective on Detail

Detail – limited perspective

Perspective – limited detail
Viewing Scale Matters 29
 Some Capabilities
and Limitations

Some MFD’s can accept

charts from Navionics,
C-Map and Lighthouse.

Two different charting

programs

How do you access NOTE G?

Keeping Charts Updated

List of websites

• Weekly publication by U.S.C.G

online as a PDF file
• Published by District w/ 8
Sections:
o Abbreviations
o Special Notices
o Discrepancies
o Temporary Changes
o Chart Corrections
o Advance Notices
o Proposed Changes
o General Light List
Corrections

34
 Weekly Chart Updates

Broadcast Notice to Mariners - BNM

Email update:
Knapps Narrows
West Channel
lights temporally
discontinued due
to dredging.

https://distribution.charts.noaa.gov/weekly_updates/
https://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=lnmMain
Updated every Thursday
35
Keeping Charts Updated

Weekly email - Tues

https://www.navcen.uscg.gov/

36
 Keeping Your Charts Updated

2,000 updates a day

“Freshest Data”: Register online within two months
of purchase and get free daily updates for one year.

When was the last time you updated your electronic charts?

39
40
 e-Nav, Its Components
Hardware:
– MFDs, chartplotter/fish finders, chart plotters, hand held
GPS units, computers, tablets and Smart Phones.

– In addition to displaying a variety of charting data, MFDs

integrate multiple navigation tools such as radar, depth,
wind direction/spd, AIS, satellite wx, engine and boat
systems data into user-tailored displays.

– Most newer MFDs are equipped with built-in Wi-Fi to serve

as the centerpiece of a “smart boat” wireless local area
network, providing internet connectivity.

– MFDs, chart plotters and handheld GPS systems are

designed for use in the marine environment (heat,
humidity, sunlight); can be permanently mounted or
removable. 41
 e-Nav, Its Components
Hardware:
– Computers, tablets and Smart Phones have limitations
for use in the humid environment and strong sunlight
typical of maritime operations; don’t generally operate from
fixed locations on the boat.

– MFDs, chart plotters, Smart Phones have integrated GPS

capabilities, many now with Wi-Fi.

– Not all tablets or computers are GPS enabled but many

can be enabled through additional hardware / software
additions.

– Several Apps for tablets and Smart Phones can be used to

interface with MFDs.
42
 e-Nav, Its Components
Hardware:
– Major brands of marine electronics to include MFD’s:
Garmin Raymarine
B&G SIMRAD
Lowrance FURUNO

43
 e-Nav, Its Components
Hardware:
• Considerations when selecting a personnel computer:
– Computers or laptops with charting software offer significant
computing power and storage capability, work well for planning,
waypoint and route creation, viewing info like tides/currents and
back up route management while underway.
– The more capable the software program, the more memory
needed.
– A computer sufficient for graphic-intensive games or displaying
and manipulating large photos should be sufficient for e-Nav.
– Have GPS interface and Wi-Fi internet capable.
– Must be protected from dropping, vibration, spills, high
humidity and extreme temp changes.
– If protected, most computers are capable of performing well
onboard as long as they can operate off 12v DC (monitor too).
– Improvements in power management are helping to solve the
major challenge: screen brightness.
– “Bigger (screens) is not always better”. 44
 e-Nav, Its Components
Software for marine hardware and computers:
• Navigation system applications and charts need to be regularly
updated. This can be an issue with older devices.
• Some e-Nav systems use proprietary charting software, others
can display free government charts, some can do both.
• C-Map,After
Navionics,
buyingNV Charts
new and Garmin’s
hardware BlueCharts® are
or software,
some ofalways
the best selling
check tonames
see if for world-wide
there chart coverage.
are factory
Others can operate using multiple chart displays like OpenCPN.
updates before using.
• Charting data can be displayed as Raster Navigation Charts
(RNC) or Electronic Navigation Charts (ENC) (Vector).
• There are international standards for commercial navigation
systems, not all recreational ECS use officially recognized
ECDIS software or charts.
“There are far more unregulated navigation systems in use than type-
approved electronic chart display and information systems”. The Coast
Guard Proceedings, Journal of Safety & Security at Sea, Summer 2015
45
 e-Nav, Its Components
Consolidation of marine hardware and software:
• Jeppeson has sold its C-Map to the Swedish company that
owns Navico – parent to B&G, Lowrance and Simrad. In 2018
merged C-Map with Navico.
• Navico will continue to support Raymarine and Furuno
systems.
• Garmin acquired Navionics in late 2017 w/ intention of
eventually blending Navionics data with its proprietary Blue
Charts
• Navionics brand is retained and continued to be supported -
“no intention of making Navionics proprietary to Garmin”.
• Note, not all recreational ECS use officially recognized
ECDIS software or charts.
“The changes we are seeing in cartography are making it easier for us to
provide innovative electronics solutions along with trusted mapping
systems to our customers.” West Marine’s electronic manager 46
 e-Nav, Its Components

Consolidation in marine hardware and software

47
 e-Nav, Its Components
Software for marine hardware and computers:
• Some considerations when choosing ENC’s:
 Raster or Vector formats
 Availability of ENCs for desired cruising area. Check for regional
chart coverage, level of detail and data sources - Coverages varies
in availability of small and large scale charts of desired cruising
areas i.e. Explorer Bahamas charts licensed by GARMIN and
Jeppessen. NV charts for Cuba. Check the “definition” of cruising
areas
 Available paper versions
 Availability for periodic updates; many publishers moving to
“subscription” services for updates
 Features and display formats desired for the type of sailing you do
– racing, coastal cruising, offshore voyaging
 Ability to integrate input from existing hardware
 Access to “crowd-sourced” or User Generated Content (UGC) input
– ability to update information
 Fully operational offline 49
 e-Nav, Its Components
Instruments and Sensors:
• Most boats incorporate some degree of networked marine electronic
interface – a GPS sensor integrated with chartplotter and VHF radio.
• The trend is to interconnect more sensors to provide an integrated picture
of vessel location and status, the physical environment and boat systems.
The chart plotter has become the primary integration tool.
• Onboard local area network (LAN) and wireless integration are becoming
more popular.
• Instruments and sensors typically integrated:
– Autopilot - Sonar
– AIS - Fishfinders
– Radar - Boat Systems
– Wind/Speed/Depth/Sea Temperature
– Satellite Wx
– Video
• Issues of cabling and data compatibility exist between manufactures but
can generally be resolved with ”work arounds”. Common systems share
data more consistently. Digital Yacht’s SeaTalk to NIMEA Gateway
52
 e-Nav, Its Components
Automatic Identification System (AIS)
• Automated system using transponders and receivers over VHF to
transmit and receive AIS
detailed information
Transceivers in US about
Watersa ship and its progress:
 Ship name
Class A Class B
 Course, speed, destination, last port of call, and much more
Transmitting
 Closes point ofPower
approach 12.5
(CPA)Wand time2toWCPA (TCPA)
• Different levels
Transmit rateor classes:2-3
Class
sec A and Class
30 sec B
• Most commercial ships are required to transmit and receive; recreational
Commercial Vessels >65 ft Can beAny used to broadcast
non-regulated application-
vessel
boats not required to have either, some have just a receiver.
specific msgs (ASMs): cordon off
Passenger Capacity >150 12-150
areas, shift traffic lanes or identify
Fishing Vessels hazardsAfter Mar 1, 2016
to navigation.
Recreational Vessel Optional Optional

54
 e-Nav, Its Components
Automatic Identification System (AIS)

LORETTE
My vessel

56
 e-Nav, Its Components
Automatic Identification System (AIS)

CAUTION: AIS smartphone apps may not show complete or

timely data and not all vessels have an AIS transponder.

57
 It Can Get Crowded Out There
Marine Traffic App

4 Nov 0800 hrs

ICW

3 Nov 1400 hrs 3 Nov 2000 hrs

Purple – Pleasure
Green - Commercial
From USCG Frequently asked Questions on AIS
(d) Operations. The requirements in this paragraph [33 CFR 164.46 (d)] are
applicable to any vessel equipped with AIS, either by mandatory
carriage or voluntarily:
(1) Use of AIS does not relieve the vessel of the requirements to sound
whistle signals or display lights or shapes in accordance with the
International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, …….
(2) AIS must be maintained in effective operating condition, which
includes:
(i) The ability to reinitialize the AIS, which requires access to and
knowledge of the AIS power source and password
(ii) The ability to access AIS information from the primary
conning position of the vessel
(iii) The accurate broadcast of a properly assigned Maritime
Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number
(iv) The accurate input and upkeep of all AIS data fields and
system updates
Code of Federal Regulations 33 – Navigation and Navigable Waters
 e-Nav, Its Components – What’s New
Radars with a familiar look but new capabilities:
• Found under names like: solid state radar, broadband radar, Frequency
Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW), pulse compression radar and
CHIRP.

• Id targets closer to your boat, as close as 18 feet. Clearer images, and

resolve smaller or overlapping objects.

• Instant-on operation means there is no warm-up time, so radar is

available in seconds.

• RF radiation output reduced. Solid state radars transmitting outputs of

40W or less, compared to 4kW for a typical small pulse radar. Mounting
options available that were not possible before.

• With less transmitting power, solid state radars draw significantly less
power.
 e-Nav, Its Components
Software: Apps for Tablets and Smart Phones:
– An ever increasing number of apps are available to support e-
Nav. Broad categories include:
Astronomy Navigation Community (UGC)
Fishing Medical/First Aid Wx
Tide/Current Reference Safety
Utilities Sailing
– Some apps need to be connected to cell service or Wi-Fi to
access data.
– For use as navigation tools, make sure charts and navigation
applications can be accessed when offline and chart data is
regularly updated.
– A variety of waterproof cases for both tablets and Smart Phones
are available.
The Argonnaut A165 Marine Smart Monitor preforms
all the functions of an MFD but also is a fully functional
Android device. Everything from navigation and wx to
Facebook are fully integrated. 64
 Four areas: Navigation, wx, cruising guides and info, other
e-Nav, Its Components
• Sooo many Apps available. Some worth considering:
– Navionics: NOAA charts by region and chart plotter capabilities
– iNavX: charting program, raster and vector charts
14 iPadMap:
– Aqua Navigation
full chartingApps Evaluated,
program; AtiveCaptainBoband Sherer,
WaterwayWaterway
Guide
Guide.
– SEAiq:With
Fullyevaluation spreadsheet
intergrated chart program; ActiveCaptain
– MX Mariner: basic charting program with ActiveCaptain integrated
– iSAILOR: basic charting program (Android & Apple)
– MyNOAA Charts: basic charting program with updates
– Active Captain: charts and UGC cruising guide
Navigation applications can pull from the server
– Marine Traffic: AIS by cell or Wi-Fi
– Radardirectly on NOAA’s
Now: current conditions website to obtain the latest
updates
– NOAA Marinefor A word of caution: if you’re using
free.Forecast
Weather
an app,
– NOAA Smartmake
Buoys:sure they’re
current wx, tide authorized through
current and air/water tempsNOAA,
– NOAA Now: current conditions
otherwise they may be using their own data sources
– Sail GRIB: GRIB files out to 36 hrs.
or accessing
– Predict Wind: 4 modelthe NOAA database once per year
forecasts
leaving
– Windfinder: youand
current without necessary
forecasted critical
wind, tide, current infoupdates.
– FieldCompass+: hand bearing compass, records bearings
– ASA: marine compass and many good online references
– Tides Near Me: Tide and Sun/Moon data
65
– Weather from NOAA: Satellite images, marine info and Ocean storms
 Make Some Choices
• Lots of choices in e-Nav hardware/software: new “stuff” all the
time.
• Key questions: what do you want / need based on the type
of sailing you do:
• Navigation display – multiple formats
• Position, speed, depth, wind
• Communication – routine and emergency
• Situational awareness – weather, boats, shore lines, other
hazards
• Autohelm
and
• Where to put it / how displayed

- AIS: or
 Possible Solutions
• (1) All new ($$$$$)
– Buy a new boat or …….
– Upgrade/replace the fixed equipment suite
 A fully integrated system
• (2) Keep what you have and add multitask devices ($)
– Load up a smart device (tablets, etc.) with Apps – “good to go”
 Limited integration
• (3) Mix ($$$)
– Reuse/replace/add selected fixed equipment
– Leverage new or create redundant capability with smart devices:
• Bluetooth connectivity with MFD and Autohelm
• Numerous chart plotter and crowd sourced data
• Wx prediction and route planning
• Reference
• Entertainment
 Some system integrated, some not
 So, at the End of the Day
• Do you have the information you need for the type of
sailing you do / located where you need it?
• Is your system reliable?
• Any money left to enjoy some cruising?
• Do you have enough for a ginger beer for a Dark &
Stormy?

B
69
 Considerations and Applications
Set Up:
• Never rely on a single source/tool – electronics are aids to
navigation. Electronics make a good navigator better – know
the questions to ask, answers to be expected; makes a weak
navigator dangerous.

• Keep your operator manuals, CD’s and permits numbers

aboard – you have them if need to reformat or refer to features
you need to “relearn”.

• Screen refresh rates vary – based on processor speeds,

amount of information to be displayed and satellite availability,
the “picture painted” on your screen may be where you were not
where you are at a specific time. This difference increases with
boat speed, sea state especially with older ECS.

70
 Considerations and Applications
Set Up:
• Practice with your MFD to ensure you know how to maximize
the system capabilities and update waypoint and routes as you
go.

• Practice use of the instruments at the helm to ensure you know

what info they can provide and how to access / use it.

• Have and know how to use both electronic and paper charts
– Many common elements. GPS enabled devices should not
replace a solid knowledge and ability to work with basic
navigation tools and paper charts.

71
 Navigation Charts

NOAA Chart 12221

Navigation Charts:
• Paper
• Electronic Navigation Charts (ENCs):
 Raster Chart: A static, scanned image of a paper chart.
 Vector Chart: A dynamic data file of chart features

http://www.charts.noaa.gov/InteractiveCatalog/nrnc.shtml
72
 Understanding Chart
Accuracy

Coastal navigation has been more

about referencing landmasses to the
sea bottom then astronomical fixes.

Charts more accurately depicted

soundings and hydrographic features
relative to land masses than with
absolute accuracy to Lat/Long.
 All charts have errors

Reliability and Confidence:

All chart are jigsaws of individual surveys, some old, (even ancient) some
newer pieced together to form a single chart. ENCs are seamlessly
integrated and encoded within a composite data quality indicator ‘Category
of Zone of Confidence’ (CATZOC). Data quality based on:
• Measurement uncertainty (e.g. the variation between similar
measurements at the same location)
• Completeness (e.g. seafloor coverage)
• Currency (e.g. temporal degradation)
75
 Electronic Navigation Charts (RNC)
RNC Characteristics
RASTER NAVIGATIONAL CHART (RNC)

• Raster charts NOAA’s first priority. Looks like paper chart;

•
familiar to paper chart users
• RCDS software
Conversion of raster to vector charts is a time• consuming integrates
“hands-on”
real time GPS with chart
effort to de-conflict scale and content differences.
image
• Can be updated with weekly
raster patches
• No inherent safety warning
capability
• Does not have the capability
to show denser data when
zooming in.
• Cannot suppress specific
charting features
• Cannot rotate text

Raster Chart: A static, scanned image of a paper chart

78
 Raster Chart – 1:40,000

Raster Chart: A static, scanned image of a paper chart

 Electronic Navigation Charts (ENC)
ELECTRONIC NAVIGATIONAL CHART (ENC) ENC Characteristics

• Vector Database
• Each chart feature has
attribution
• Has different look and feel
than paper chart
• Categories of data can be
suppressed by software. For
example, just show depth
contours and suppress
specific text.
• "Zooming in" has capability to
show denser data
• Chart image can be rotated
and text will remain upright
• Electronic chart systems can
issue warnings of impending
danger ahead

Information or shore-based information that was on a Raster chart

may not appear or be incomplete at all zoom levels.
80
 Vector Chart – 1:40,000

Vector Chart: A dynamic data file of chart features.

 Electronic Navigation Charts (ENC)

Vector Charts NOAA Chart 12221

http://www.charts.noaa.gov/InteractiveCatalog/nrnc.shtml

Vector Chart: A dynamic data file of chart features. 84

 Electronic Navigation Charts (ENC)
• Using a vector data base with layered data, ENCs can
display a wealth of information not found on raster charts.

Tide and current

data can be
referenced directly
from the chart

85
Electronic Navigation Charts (ENC)

MAPTECH
computer program

86
 Keeping Your Charts Updated

2,000 updates a day

“Freshest Data”: Register online within two months
of purchase and get free daily updates for one year.

When was the last time you updated your electronic charts?

89
NOAA Charts & Publications
https://nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/

90
 ENCs vs. Paper
NOAA ELECTRONIC NAVIGATIONAL CHART (ENC) FOR
NAVIGATION IN U.S. WATERS:
• NOAA recommends that mariners take advantage of the most recent
chart updates by using the NOAA Electronic Navigational Chart
(ENC) for navigation in U.S. waters.

• ENCs provide the most up to date information, whereas paper and

raster nautical chart updates may be up to one month behind the
corresponding ENC coverage.

• Over the next few years, mariners will see continued improvement
in the extent and detail of ENC coverage, while there will be a
reduction in RNC and paper chart coverage and service.

• ENCs will include routine changes between editions that are not
published through notices to mariners.
LMN 50/18
91
92
 ENCs vs. Paper
• ENCs can display the same features differently than traditional “paper
charts” depending on user preferences and settings such as the draft
of your vessel.
- Display of wrecks, rocks, and other obstructions if they are deeper
than the depth of the “safety contour” set for the vessel. Dangers
that are shoaler are displayed with a unique “isolated danger”
symbol.

• “Safety contour” – a thick line for a depth contour that separates “safe
water” from shoaler areas – changes in shading. User selected.

• Display additional info about a feature through a “curser pick” (purpose,

status, color, shape, height, etc.).

• Change the color palette of the display – day, dusk, night.

• Buoys and beacon are displayed differently.

93
“The symbology used to display ENCs
or other non-ENC nautical navigation
data on non-ECDIS systems, such as
geographic info systems, recreational
GPS and other chart display systems
can differ significantly from the
symbology specified for ECDIS type
systems. Chart No 1 only displays the
symbology used on ECDIS.”

94
95
• Lights – display the most complex and varied objects on
an ENC …….. and the most confusing.

• Wide variance in how displayed.

99
101
Differences in Charting Symbols: RNCs and ENCs

• RNCs and Paper Charts top

• ECDIS bottom
Comparison of Raster and Vector Charting Symbols

Raster Vector
“Curser pick”

Depth contours

A single layer of information / data Each item a separate entry with “attributes”
103
Automatic Identification System (AIS) Aids to Navigation
In the near future, the U.S. Coast Guard and other authorized agencies
and organizations will begin transmitting AIS ATON messages and
marine safety information. The exact content, location, and times of
these broadcasts will be announced in future LNM.

Broadcasts can originate from an AIS station located on an existing

physical ATON (Real AIS ATON) or from another location (i.e. AIS Base
Station). An AIS Base Station signal broadcasted to coincide with an
existing physical aid to navigation is known as a Synthetic AIS ATON.

An electronically charted, but non-existent as a physical aid to navigation,

is identified as a Virtual AIS ATON. Can be used to depict an existing aid
to navigation that is off station or not watching properly or to convey an
aid to navigation that has yet to be charted.

These variants can be received by any existing AIS mobile device, but they
would require an external system for their portrayal (i.e., AIS message 21
capable ECDIS, ECS, radar, PC).
105
 eATONs

A physical
location

No physical
location

106
 AIS ATON Symbology for ECDIS

AIS ATON stations broadcast their presence, identity (9-digit

Marine Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number), position, and
status at least every three minutes or as needed. 107
 eATONs

Lighted Ice Buoy (LIB): A lighted

buoy without a sound signal, and
designed to withstand the forces of
shifting and flowing ice.

108
 AIS ATONs
Physical AIS ATONs can actively monitor and report the health and
position status of its host; while Synthetic AIS ATON broadcasted from
ashore (i.e. NAIS) can be used to electronically augment BNM
the range or
portrayal (i.e., on radar and ECDIS) of an existing aid to navigation.

All existing AIS mobile devices can receive AIS ATON Reports and
ASM messages, they may not readily appear on an AIS Minimal
Keyboard Display or other shipboard navigational display systems (i.e.,
radar, ECDIS, ECS), which would require software updates to make
these systems compliant with international navigation presentation
standards

AIS ATON can also be used to broadcast lateral (e.g., Port Hand Mark)
and non-lateral significant marine safety information (e.g., environmental
conditions, wind speed and direction, tidal/current data, bridge air
clearances, area notices, etc. and navigation warnings).

109
 Considerations and Applications
Set Up:
• Have and know how to use a chart: Finding location
– Can you and your crew answer these questions:
o I want to go to this position on the chart but how do I select
the waypoints to put into my e-Nav device that get me there?
o How do I locate the waypoints on my e-Nav device to see
where they are on the chart?
o Where am I and where is this on the chart?

– Some tools which help in

answering these questions
on paper charts.

111
 Considerations and Applications
Set Up: Know how to use an electronic or paper chart:
• Being able to apply these basic navigation skills:
• Read a chart and understand the information it displays - its
scale, buoys, surface and sub surface features, etc.
• Find location, distance, and direction
– Allow the navigator to ask the right questions and help ensure
information like waypoint locations, routes, course to steer
(CTS), etc. on and from e-Nav devices make sense.
– Where there is difference between the information displayed on
your e-Nav device and that from traditional plotting techniques,
you need to work to understand the reasons behind the
difference.
– Remember: Electronics are aids to navigation. Electronics
make a good navigator better – know the questions to
ask/answers to be expected; makes a weak navigator
dangerous.

112
 Considerations and Applications
Set Up:
• Make sure critical units are set properly. Distances in NM, speed
in knots, Lat/Long in degrees/minutes/tenths for coastal charts;
degrees/minutes/seconds for Great Lakes, WGS 84 datum or to
match charts datum, heading direction in True or Magnetic. Set
safety depth/contours. Note: on the ICW and Great Lakes
distances are measured in statue miles not nm.
– Note: know what your depth sounder is recording
• Use updated charts: Like paper charts, electronic charts need to be
updated. NOAA updates up to 1500 charts weekly. Some e-Nav
systems can be updated via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth links, others need
new chips – some older systems can’t be updated .

• Know the source/date of chart data: Especially important in

boating outside major shipping areas; keep in mind that the initial
survey and the soundings data can be decades old. Even on a chart
recently updated, the most current soundings could be from 1950’s
and 1960’s. A 100 yr. backlog in chart survey needs.
113
Considerations and Applications

Set Up: MFD’s allow

Individual screen
displays to be tailored.

114
 Considerations and Applications
Set Up: MFD’s allow Individual screen displays to be tailored.

Current vector
AIS Targets /speed
12 user
tailored
Tidal indicators Info boxes

115
116
 Considerations and Applications
Planning: Utilize internet recourses like on-line cruising guides,
coastal pilots, weather forecasts, etc. to assist in planning.
• Take advantage of the information available from “crowd
sourcing”: Many e-Nav devices now include access to User
Generated Content (UGC). This “crowdsourced” data can provide
great info but issues of quality assurance, calibration, and clutter need
to be considered. Regularly update your data.

ActiveCaptain images. Integrated in 600+ software products, 650+ chartplotter models

117
 UGC Displays: COG, SOG, Position & Distance

MX Mariner* with
ActiveCaptain Obstructions
on an Android Tablet

Navigation
Marinas Notes Waypoints

*One of many basic

mobile chartplotter apps
featuring quilted, offline
marine charts.
Anchorage
119
 UGC – “Waterway Guide”
Waterway Guide continues to open its database of marine-related
information to users of popular navigation apps that now include Aqua
Map, SEAiq and iNavX, with more pending as well as a “Waterway Guide
Explorer” web app.

The information is shown as overlays on the charts as one of six symbols

that include an alert for hazardous conditions, marinas, anchorages, free
docks, bridge data and lock information.

Data is stored in the app and no internet connection is needed except for
periodic downloads

Nav Alerts embedded in the Waterway Guide Explorer web app are
displayed as a text box with information posted by staff editors and verified
when posted by other boaters.

120
 Considerations and Applications
Planning:
• Building waypoints (WP). A WP can be created in one of two way.
– Working off a paper chart: Specific locations along a path or route
between two or more points are selected and their coordinates (Lat /
Long) determined. These positions are then entered into the e-Nav
device using the curser key. Same process for entering WPs from
other sources like cruising guides.
• Physically check their location on the e-Nav device to make sure
they are where you think they should be.
– Working on an E-Nav device: Specific locations are selected on the
ENC by placing the curser over a selected location. The Lat and
Long will be displayed, WP created.
– Waypoints can be connected
to build a route.
Easier to build and load waypoints at
the dock or at home on a computer
then when while underway.
121
 Considerations and Applications
Planning:
• Set waypoints in middle of narrow passages – don’t just
route through them. In areas subjected to strong currents and
wind this helps to minimize to impact of leeway.

• Exercise care in using WPs from sources other than your

own work, including cruising guides. Don’t let someone
else’s error get you into trouble.

Charting Programs
Cruising Guides

123
 Considerations and Applications
Planning:
• Be careful about using
buoys as waypoints – esp. in
fog – others are likely using
the same location for their
WPs.

• With the accuracy of today’s

GPS enabled systems,
following a waypoint to a buoy
may lead you to ……..

• Set waypoints several boat

lengths away from channel
markers or navigation aids.

• Using channel markers and

navigations aids as WP’s
provides a “target” to steer Offset waypoints from buoys,
toward. you just might confirm its position
Develop a localized naming convention for WPs to help in Iding them
124
 “Fly Your Route”

Planning:
• Make sure routes make
sense:
Scale out to plan the
general route, scale in to
refine and finalize (“fly the
route”).

• Initial route “layout” must

be refined based on a
review of larger scale
charts.
Remember scale matters
in the amount of detail
displayed.
125
126
 Considerations and Applications
Execution:
• Would you “do it” of you did not have “it”? Over-reliance on
GPS/Chartplotter accuracy has many risks - especially at night. “Do
I have backup means of navigation available?” (charts, compass,
DR plot, etc.) “Am I taking a chance to go there if my ECS
should fail?”

Navionics app: “Dock-to-Dock” Autorouting

now available
127
 Considerations and Applications
Execution:
• Would you “do it” of you did not have “it”. Over-reliance on
GPS/Chartplotter accuracy has many risks - especially at night. “Do
I have backup means of navigation available (charts, compass, DR
plot, etc.)?” “Am I taking a chance to go there if my ECS were to
fail?”

• Beware of the scale of electronic charts: On small-scale charts

important detail can be missing – no indication that important info
can be found in larger-scale, zoomed-in depictions. Similar issue
when selecting the “declutter” function on some ENCs.
– Scaling in beyond the scale the cartographers intended may
show more detail than is actually there.
Because of screen size, digital charting displays show a lot of detail
in a small area or a larger area with very limited detail.
128
How Much Detail is Enough

Execution:
• Exercise care when using
the “declutter” or “less
detail” feature available
on chartplotters /MFDs.
“Declutter off”
• Remember to turn it off or
add detail when
navigating close to shore
or near potential danger
areas.

• The questions is: “do

you know where those
“Declutter on” danger areas are?”

129
 Considerations and Applications
Execution:
• Look and listen. Take your eyes
off the screen. Look around, see
what is going on around you. With
so much info available it’s easy to
develop a “game show mentality”.

• Maintain situational awareness.

There can be significant difference
between where objects are shown
on electronic charts and where they
actually are located.

• e-Charts will not show boats or

other obstacles floating in the It’s Not a Game Show
water. Don’t become a Victim of EAC

130
 Considerations and Applications
Execution:
• Utilize MFDs to provide an integrated picture of vessel data and
the operating environment to increase your “situational
awareness”. Tailor the screens to your needs.

• Be aware, especially with older units, the more data the device
has to “paint”, the slower the “refreshed rate” of the “picture” you
may be seeing. What you see may be where your were, not
where you are now.
131
 Plotting Your Position – A Technique

WP #24

Bearing: 092o M
Distance: 2.4 nm

1. Establish a WP at the center of a compass rose.

2. While underway, select “Go To” or similar command on chartplotter/GPS to
get bearing and distance to the WP.
3. Using parallel rulers and dividers, plot your position on the chart.

132
 Some Thoughts/Observations
• Take time at the dock to get familiar with your e-Nav devices. The
Owner’s Manual is a great reference but only “hands-on” practice
will get you comfortable with using the equipment. Most devices
have a “factory reset” feature so “play” with it before heading out
on the water.
• “Touch pad” (TP) features are found on Smart Phones, tablets and
many computers. They are becoming more common on MFDs.
Some even have the option of “”hard key” or TP control. The TP
feature works well at the dock or in calm conditions but underway
getting a wet finger to the right place on a moving screen can
sometimes be a challenge. “Try before you buy”
• Determine what new capabilities you need; know how to use them,
be aware of their limitations.
• Having paper charts available of the entire cruising area helps give
you a good idea of the actual distances to be traveled and points of
interest/major aids/obstacles along the way, gives you a “birds eye”
perspective.
133
 Summary
• The first rule of navigation is to never rely on a single source
for navigation.
• e-Nav devices help us to navigate in all kinds of weather, get wx and
avoid hazards, to include other boats, but they should always be
considered aids to navigation and not the sole tools used for
navigation. Treat e-Nav devices and data with deep appreciation but
at least a little skepticism.
• All electronics will fail. This means knowing how to and
maintaining a plot on a chart, running and updating a DR, and
keeping a log while underway. Keeping a Log takes on increased
importance.
• Remember we are legally and morally obligated to keep a lookout
while underway.
• It should not be a “one-or-the other” approach but one that seeks
to take advantage of the best capabilities each can provide.
• Don’t become a victim of EAC.

134
 e-Nav Training Class – 6 April
A 1 – day, two part class designed to identify the advantages e-Nav
devices provide to recreational boaters yet be aware of their limitations
and how to minimize them. Apply during a cruise planning problem.

This course might be for you or key members of your crew if:
 You’re looking to upgrade onboard systems and wondering how best
to integrate new and old equipment.
 Looking for criteria for selecting new software for your navigation
system, Smartphone or tablet.
 You’re looking for information available on the internet to support
navigation planning and execution.
 You’re unsure if you can answer these questions when planning
a trip or while underway:
• I want to go to this position on the chart but how do I select the
waypoints to put into my e-Nav device that will get me there?
• How do I locate the waypoints on my e-Nav device on my chart?
• Where am I and where is this on the chart?
 e-Nav Training Class – 6 April
 You’re comfortable using a chart plotter or other e-Nav devices but not
sure how to use paper charts and “traditional” navigation tools.
 You’re comfortable using paper charts and “traditional” navigation tools
but are a little hesitant when using e-Nav tools or knowing how to take
full advantage of their capabilities.
 Wondering why what you see on the chart plotter does not match what
you see on a paper chart of the same area.
 You want to know how to better take advantage of the ever increasing
range of internet resources and apps available to today’s navigators.
Course first discusses what is e-Nav, the capabilities and limitation of e-Nav
devices, criteria for selection hardware and software for onboard use to include
Apps for Smartphones and tablets and an overview of key traditional navigation
skills and plotting techniques.

Followed by a cruise planning problem demonstrating how to integrate e-Nav

devices, internet resources and traditional navigation tools for a weekend
cruise.
Full presentation with an application problem - 6 April

Capt Steve Runals

138