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NOAA Custom Charts: We're Here to Help

December 17, 2024

NOAA Custom Charts: We're Here to Help

NOAA Custom Charts: Updates and How We’re Here to Help

With NOAA officially retiring their traditional paper nautical charts, a new system is here to help mariners create personalized charts tailored to their needs. Using NOAA’s Custom Chart Tool (NCC), you can now generate charts that are specific to your routes, destinations, and preferences.

We are here to support this transition by offering professional printing services for the charts you create. Simply upload your chart to our Custom Charts section, and we’ll take care of the rest—delivering a high-quality, ready-to-use chart right to your door.

 


 

1. Carriage Requirements and Your Charts

If you’re wondering whether NOAA Custom Charts meet U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) carriage requirements, here’s what to know: the USCG decides what charts are acceptable for navigation. NOAA advises all questions be directed to the USCG Navigation Center for clarification (Contact USCG).

While NCCs might meet requirements in certain situations, we recommend verifying to ensure compliance. If you have questions about this process, feel free to ask—we’re happy to help guide you.

 


 

2. Simplifying Chart Creation

The NOAA Custom Chart Tool can be a powerful way to personalize your charts, but it can also be a bit tricky to master. If you’re not sure where to start or find the tool challenging, we’re here to make it easier.

  • Need Printing? We offer professional printing services to deliver high-quality charts, whether you’re looking for large-format nautical charts or smaller custom options.

  • Looking for Guidance? If you’d like tips or help navigating the tool we have provided the link to the video walkthrough provided by NOAA. 

 


 

3. Tips for Clear, Consistent Charts

To ensure the best results with your custom chart:

  • Check Your Scale: Consistency is key. If you select an area with varied scale data (e.g., 1:10,000 in one section and 1:80,000 in another), the system may default to lower-detail data, which could leave gaps or less clarity.

  • Preview Layers: Use NOAA’s tool to toggle layers on and off and ensure you’re capturing the coverage and detail you need.

If you’re replicating an old NOAA paper chart, keep in mind that differences in ENC data or paper sizes might mean your chart won’t match exactly. However, the new formats often offer greater detail and improved accuracy.

 


 

4. We’re Here to Support You

Our goal is to make the charting process as seamless as possible. Whether you need printing, advice, or both, we’re here to ensure you get the charts you need to navigate confidently.You can also share your settings with NOAA for direct assistance.

Let us know how we can help!




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