Hydrographic charts are an essential source of data for MaxSea marine charts in order to guarantee the quality of this basic onboard tool for safe sailing while at sea.
Did you ever wonder how MapMedia marine charts are produced? Although the charts are edited by MapMedia, this company uses hydrographic charts collected and then updated by hydrographic offices all around the world. Here, we explain the steps of this process.
To draw up a chart, first we must compile data, edit it and then keep it continuously updated.
The data collection
The hydrographic office first acquires bathymetric, topographic and sedimentological surveys as well as satellite imagery and any additional data needed.
Production of the chart
Once all this data has been compiled and verified, a paper chart is drawn up, following very precise specifications in order to comply with sailing requirements in each specific area. All the necessary information for sailing and safety are provided on the paper chart. The chart must be both precise and easy to read so that you can sail safely.
This first date of publication is always included on the hydrographic chart. We have included images from the French Hydrographic Office to to explain each point in this post.
Chart Updates
Every week, minor or major corrections are reported on the hydrographic chart and then released via the « Groupe d’Avis aux Navigateurs GAN » or “Notice to Mariners – NTM”.
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In the case of minor corrections that are not essential for sailor safety, the marine chart is printed again. The date of this new print is mentioned on the chart. A chart can also be printed again if out of stock. The date of the reprint is mentioned on the chart.
When major modifications occur, the hydrographic chart is reprinted. A new publication number and date are added to the chart:
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New chart SHOM N° 7428
MapMedia compares marine charts and different catalogues and selects the best chart for a specific location in order to provide the most reliable information for safe sailing.
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Don’t forget to download this useful guide on how to choose the right marine chart for you:
Brice Pryszo was born in Bayonne, a city in the south west of France, on March 12th, 1952. From an early age he discovered the joys of sailing in the Basque Country.
The company’s first investment was the purchase of the third Macintosh 128k ever sold in France, in the spring of 1984 (in addition to the Macintosh Lisa used for development). These revolutionary machines allowed the company to develop the software prototype MACSEA to be tested aboard “Crédit Agricole” in 1985. It was subsequently tested by Philippe Poupon and Eric Tabarly. The MACSEA software gradually became a reference in the sector of high-level competitive sailing.
Between 1996 and 1999, MACSEA abandoned the Mac platform, deciding to develop for the dominant Microsoft Windows platform instead. The company then became known as MaxSea.
