Understanding a Nautical Chart

A handy guide to making sense of a nautical chart Whether they are paper or electronic, charts are the most fundamental navigational tool. Making the best use of them requires a great understanding of symbols and abbreviations, as well as an awareness of the limits of accuracy in positions and soundings. Understanding a Nautical Chart not only helps you to read a chart, it allows you to understand that information and use it to navigate safely. Learning the abbreviations and symbols are critical to anybody using a chart and before you can use one, you must know them or at have easy access to the definitions, all of which are included in a full copy of the key to UKHO charts (Chart 5011). * Explains how to establish the accuracy of charts to allow you to navigate with confidence and safety * Written by a former Royal Navy Deputy Commander in Chief, Paul Boissier* Includes a full copy of the key to UKHO chart symbols (Chart 5011). The chart information included is presented in the following sections: *General Chart Number, Title, Marginal Notes, Positions, Distances, Directions, Compass *Topography Natural Features, Cultural Features, Landmarks, Ports, Topographic Terms *Hydrography Tides, Currents, Depths, Nature of the Seabed, Rocks, Wrecks, Obstructions, Offshore Installations, Tracks, Routes Areas, Limits, Hydrographic Terms *Aids and Services Lights, Buoys, Beacons, Fog Signals, Radar, Radio, Electronic Position-Fixing Systems, Services, Small Craft Facilities *Alphabetical Index Index of Abbreviations, International Abbreviations, List of Descriptors, IALA Maritime Buoyage System *Chart 5011
PB pages 194