Australian vs International Nautical Charts: Key Differences
There are some subtle differences between Australian nautical charts and international charts. This is important to know primarily because Australian charts offer additional details specific to the unique region.
Let’s review some of these differences.
Regulatory Framework and Production
International nautical charts are developed by the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO). To ensure consistency, the IHO incorporates a variety of standards that are recognised globally. However, most individual countries or regions produce their own detailed charts.
In Australia, such nautical charts are developed by the Australian Hydrographic Office (AHO), which ensures accurate and updated nautical information for mariners operating in the region.
The AHO operates under the Royal Australian Navy, and although it produces its own charts, it follows the guidelines set out by the IHO, incorporating their standards to ensure consistency and accuracy. However, additional regulations and requirements specific to Australia’s maritime environment are also incorporated.
Geographical Detail
The Australian coastline features a number of unique aspects, such as numerous offshore islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Charts produced in Australia provide significantly more detailed information on these features than international charts, which can be crucial for safe navigation.
The localised data that addresses specific navigational challenges in the region can help mariners safely navigate challenging areas such as the Torres Strait and Bass Strait.
Tidal Information
Australian waters tend to endure significant tidal ranges and complex tidal streams. This is especially true for the northern regions. As such, charts produced by the AHO will include detailed tidal information to aid navigation in these areas. The information in international charts is not always as accurate or detailed as this.
This is because the tidal information on the Australian charts is specifically tailored to represent the unique tidal patterns and conditions of Australian waters, making it an essential aspect of a mariner’s navigational toolset.
Environmental Considerations
In order to navigate responsibly, mariners must be aware of the vast network of marine protected areas that exist throughout Australian waters. These areas are marked on local nautical charts to alert mariners about conservation zones where there are high degrees of environmental sensitivity, such as marine life breeding grounds or protected habitats.
We are dedicated to helping you ensure a successful sea voyage! Contact Boat Books, Australia’s largest specialist chart agent, for more information on Australian nautical charts.
