Boating: How to Boat: Basics
Nautical Charts
One of the most important tools used by boaters for planning trips and safely navigating waterways are Nautical Charts. Nautical Charts show the nature and shape of the coast, depths of water, general configuration and character of the bottom, prominent landmarks, port facilities, aids to navigation, marine hazards, and other pertinent information. Changes brought about by people and nature require that nautical charts be constantly maintained and updated to aid safe navigation. To meet the needs of the boating public, the National Ocean Service (NOS) produces a variety of nautical charts and chart products. The date of a nautical chart is critical to the boater. Only up-to-date charts should be used for navigation. Nautical charts vary in scale and format. For coastal navigation, for instance, boaters should use the largest chart scale available. Chart updating information can be obtained from "Local Notice to Mariners" published by the U.S. Coast Guard.
NOS nautical charts may be purchased either directly by mail from the NOS Distribution Branch or through an authorized agent. There are more than 1,700 nautical chart agents that sell NOS charts. To obtain a list of the agents near you, or request a free catalog, contact the National Ocean Service at:
National Ocean Service
Distribution Branch (N/CG33)
Riverdale, MD 20737-1199
Phone (301)436-6990
FAX (301) 436-6829
Click here
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