U.S. Navigational Charts

NOAA's Navigational Charts

The Navigational Chart is one of the most fundamental tools available to the mariner. Charts are available in various formats as described below. A Nautical Chart is a graphic portrayal of the marine environment showing the nature and form of the coast, the general configuration of the sea bottom including water depths, locations of dangers to navigation, locations and characteristics of man-made aids to navigation and other features useful to the mariner. View an example of a chart section. The Nautical Chart is essential for safe navigation. In conjunction with supplemental navigational aids, it is used by the mariner to lay out courses and navigate ships by the shortest and most economically safe route. The importance of Nautical charts is evident with over 98% of the nation's cargo carried by waterborne transportation. Click here to go to the NOAA Charts page.

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