Nautical Charts for Leisure Boating What You Need to Know
Nautical Charts for Leisure Boating What You Need to Know
Do you need charts on board? Yes, and here's why. This guide covers the key rules and recommendations for safe navigation.
Whether you’re a new sailor or an experienced captain, understanding the chart requirements is crucial. Electronic tools are convenient but require preparation. Paper charts are still worth their weight in gold as a backup. Most importantly – it’s your duty as skipper to ensure your journey is planned and carried out in a way that protects yourself, your boat, and everyone on board.
See more at geodatastyrelsen.dk or the Danish Maritime Authority.
1. You must always have appropriate charts on board
As the skipper of a leisure vessel, you're responsible for having suitable and relevant nautical charts on board that cover your entire planned route. It's a matter of safety – for yourself and for others at sea. The charts must reflect current conditions and help you avoid shallow areas, reefs, and other hazards.
2. Paper charts are not mandatory – but still a good idea
You're not required to bring paper charts. Electronic charts – those used on plotters, tablets, or smartphones – are fully permitted. Still, paper charts remain a valuable backup in case electronics fail. They should be updated regularly – either by purchasing new ones or verifying the accuracy of old charts.
3. The rules apply to small boats too – to a reasonable extent
While the “Watchkeeping Regulations for Ships” are primarily written for larger vessels, they also apply to small boats and recreational craft – though only to the extent that is reasonable and practical. If you’re in a kayak, hunting punt, or on a windsurf board, charts aren’t expected – but you must still know the area well.
4. Route planning is required before every trip
Before departure, you must plan your route from departure port to destination using updated charts and nautical publications. Your route should consider hazards and restrictions that may affect safety – this applies whether you're sailing in Denmark or abroad.
5. Know your electronic chart – and its limitations
If you're using electronic charts on a tablet or iPad, be aware of the quality and capabilities of your system. Who is the manufacturer? How is the chart updated? Are there uncertainties in the data? There are only a few standards, so it’s essential to understand your equipment well.
6. Ensure backup and power supply
An electronic chart is only as reliable as the device it runs on. Do you have enough power? Do you have an extra battery or charger? If the system requires internet access, will you have coverage? These are vital questions – especially for longer trips.
7. Equipment must be practical and safely placed
Make sure your navigation equipment is placed so you can see and operate it easily – even in bad weather. Ideally, the device should be waterproof, sturdy, and securely mounted. A damaged or soaked unit can be useless when you need it most.
8. Use charts with data from official sources
The Danish Maritime Authority recommends using charts based on official data – such as those from the Danish Geodata Agency. These charts are typically more reliable and up-to-date than random charts from unknown apps. Visit the Geodata Agency's website for information and guidance.
9. If charts aren’t possible, local knowledge is essential
If you're in a vessel where carrying charts isn’t practical – such as a dinghy or kayak – you must instead have strong local knowledge. This includes knowing hazards, rules, traffic, and other conditions in the area where you sail.
10. Responsibility lies with the skipper
Ultimately, it's the skipper – you – who is responsible for safety. You must assess which charts and data are necessary for a given trip. If something goes wrong, it’s your responsibility to prove that you planned and navigated responsibly.
