NOAA Raster Navigational Charts for U.S. Waters

Over 1000 nautical charts provide graphic portrayals of the marine environment for safe navigation. These raster images depict shoreline location, water depths, navigation aids, hazards, and sea bottom characteristics. The suite is compiled and maintained by NOAA's Office of Coast Survey using data from federal, state, and private partners.

Use Cases

• Plot shoreline location and water depths from raster charts for coastal development planning.
• Identify navigation aids and hazards to plan safe maritime routes.
• Use charts depicting sea bottom characteristics for marine resource management.

Strengths

• Contains a suite of more than 1000 individual nautical charts.
• Compiled with data from multiple authoritative partners including the U.S. Coast Guard and Army Corps of Engineers.
• Charts depict specific features like minimum water depths, aids to navigation, and hazards.

Limitations

• Data is provided as static raster images (RNCs), limiting direct geospatial analysis without conversion.
• Sample data and specific technical specifications like file sizes are unavailable for review.
• The primary formats listed (PDF, HTML) may not be optimal for direct integration into GIS or navigation systems.

Provenance

Source

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Department of Commerce

Collection Method

Charts are compiled and maintained with data from federal, state, and private partners.

Time Range

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Freshness

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Geography

United States and U.S. territory waters