Why is a chartplotter as useful for a boater as for a sailor? - Modern technology and ease of travel
Throughout history, mariners have navigated by the stars, swells, sea marks, and of course, nautical charts. As marine travel became more common and technology allowed, various aids and applications for navigation, known as chartplotters, were developed. A chartplotter is essentially a GPS-based device that displays user location, port and depth information, routes, tidal tables, and current data. You also need additional map content for the plotter to get the full use of it.
Before using a chartplotter and heading out to sea, it is good to have a basic knowledge of navigation, such as using nautical charts, piloting by landmarks, and using a compass. There is plenty of literature and several courses available to help understand the basics of navigation.
Why Invest in a Chartplotter?
The question arises: why buy a relatively expensive device and its charts, especially after having already spent a good sum on a basic navigation course and knowing the fundamentals of steering and compass use? Let's take a look.
What can traditional, paper nautical charts do? Official, up-to-date nautical charts are known for their accuracy and reliability. They are produced by maritime authorities, on which the chartplotter’s chart databases are also based. However, the charts used in chartplotters are made by international agencies, which might contain some errors. As of now, traditional paper charts still lead in accuracy, but for how long? Traditional charts enable navigation and route planning, though they come with limitations: they are difficult (if not impossible) to read in the dark without the aid of a flashlight. Paper charts are slow to update and do not allow real-time location tracking. On the other hand, the paper version requires no power except maybe a flashlight in the dark.
The usefulness of a chartplotter, which utilizes GPS satellites, becomes apparent when you want to see on the map in real-time where you are or where you’re heading. It functions like a car’s GPS navigator, showing the way on waterways. One advantage of the chartplotter is that it can be mounted in a convenient location on the boat where it can be viewed while driving, which is not as easily achieved with a paper version. It is still important to remember to focus on driving safety and keep your eyes on the route!
Most chartplotters also have good backlighting, which enables driving in dim light, making it handy for autumn evening rides or even while fishing. Chart updates can be loaded onto the plotter from a memory card, ensuring the latest information from the waters is always available.
Another advantage of the plotter is the ability to zoom in and inspect maps more closely. In the event of an accident, precise GPS data from the plotter can be quickly sent to the rescue services. The same data can be used to inform friends that one has taken a longer scenic route and will return later.
Superior Functions of a Chartplotter
The latest and greatest models now allow viewing satellite images directly from the chartplotter, just as we've become accustomed to seeing aerial photos of various locations on the internet. This feature is particularly handy when wanting to check out what a specific harbor or a tricky cluster of islands looks like. Depending on the model, chartplotters can also be equipped with numerous additional installations and devices. Notably, radar and fishfinders are popular among fishermen as they conveniently track fish schools.
Some chartplotters display the fishfinder image on one half of the screen and the map on the other, allowing simultaneous navigation and fish tracking. Certain chartplotter models can even communicate with the boat's engine, displaying vital information such as water and oil pressure, and temperatures on the screen—something old traditional nautical charts certainly can't do!
The ongoing development of chartplotters continues to enrich the lives of their owners, making each boating adventure more intriguing.
When shopping for a chartplotter, it's wise to consider your boating goals: are you planning to take up fishing, or perhaps treasure diving in the depths of the waters? Or do you wish for your chartplotter to enhance the leisurely atmosphere onboard with internet connectivity and music streaming? With a chartplotter, all these features are possible, affirming that it's much more than just an extra electronic gadget on your boat.
Happy boating moments!
